Peracetid acid’s role against Covid-19 in laundries serving the food industry

The current corona pandemic (COVID-19) is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, an encapsulated coronavirus mainly transmitted through the air and through contact with surfaces. Surface disinfection, along with personal hygiene and protection measures, is therefore a priority in the fight against the pandemic. It limits contamination. Surface disinfection must be performed optimally, in production, distribution and retail facilities, as well as in all areas such as corridors, floors, offices, toilets, dressing rooms, vehicles, etc. Appropriate biocides must be used to inactivate the coronavirus, including disinfectants based on peracetic acid. Peracetic acid (PAA) is an excellent antimicrobial agent that is highly effective against a wide variety of microorganisms. It can be used for multiple applications, such as disinfection, bleaching, water treatment and as an adjuvant in food processing. As a disinfectant it is suitable for both closed systems and open surfaces in the food industry and livestock farms. It can also be used for spatial disinfection for air treatment.

 

Scientific literature and recommendations recently made by several health authorities provide data on the efficacy of the active substances present in PAA-based products (PAA and hydrogen peroxide) against SARS-CoV-2. Or because these tests have been done against encapsulated viruses, such as SARS-CoV-2, against other similar coronaviruses, or under conditions that confirm generic virucidal activity. The table below shows the data available in the literature and official recommendations.


Thanks to PAA’s high oxidative potential on the external membrane of bacteria, endospores, fungi, viruses and yeasts, it has many industrial applications as a disinfectant in the food industry and in laundries, as well as for the treatment of water and wastewater. The oxidation mechanism consists of the transfer of electrons from the oxidized form of the acid to the micro-organisms, thereby deactivating or even killing them. The biocidal efficacy, absence of residues and ease of application in aqueous solution make PAA an antimicrobial that is increasingly needed in the food and beverage industry.