Sono-Tek Corp., Milton, N.Y., provided three ultrasonic spray coating systems for antimicrobial applications to a U.S.-based meat processor. The new systems are ideal for spraying extremely small amounts of antimicrobial agents uniformly onto the surfaces of meat slices as they are descending off industrial slicers at high speeds. Such accurate low dose coating capability is unmatched by any air pressure-assisted spraying system. Industrial scale meat slicers operate at range of speeds from 250-1,500 RPM. In order to effectively cover the entire throughput range, Sono-Tek's ultrasonic spray coater for antimicrobial applications is offered in a stand-alone model, where the controller of the equipment adjusts variables such as flow rate, spray plume shape, "no product-no spray," etc., or as an integrated system with that of the high-speed slicer. Sono-Tek uses its patented ultrasonic nozzles, which provide an accurate, low flow spray plume of uniform size micro droplets. These nozzles produce minimum "bounce back" with a high transfer coefficient, resulting in a micronic layer of antimicrobial coating fully and uniformly covering both sides of each meat slice. The new Sono-Tek antimicrobial ultrasonic spray coating system is designed in a modular fashion with a minimum floor space requirement. The system is compatible with industrial slicers of various brands, and can spray a 4-parallel meat log arrangement at slicing speeds exceeding 1,300 slices per minute. For safety considerations, electrical and air handling components are enclosed in a separate stainless-steel cabinet from the liquid handling and operational reservoir tank.