Efficacy of ultraviolet radiation as an alternative to inactive technology to inactivate micro organisms in grape juice and wines

Abstract

Sulphiting is considered as the most reliable and understood preservation technique in the wine industry. Since sulphur dioxide (S02) has been associated with possible health risks, legislation as well as consumers, are becoming more reluctant about the general use of S02 in wine production. In order to avoid economic losses due to spoilage, the wine industry is seeking feasible techniques to possibly reduce the levels of S02 in wine. The purpose of this study was, therefore to determine the efficacy of ultraviolet radiation (UV)-C (254 nm) as an alternative technology to inactivate microorganisms in white and red grape juices and wines.