Application Note: Poultry Processing

Desiccant dehumidification is used to prevent condensation from forming, eliminating product contamination from dripping

Poultry processing facilities strive to maintain an extremely clean processing environment. To accomplish this thousands of gallons of water are sprayed on a daily basis. Temperatures are maintained at approximately 50°F to prevent microbial growth. Although much of the water is drained away a considerable amount evaporates and becomes water vapor. This water vapor often drifts upwards and condenses on surfaces such as ceilings, structural steel and piping. Per USDA FSIS directives this condensation is not allowed to drip onto the product and is not allowed to form either in product or nonproduct areas. Until now the only solution was to spend considerable time and effort "controlling" it with plastic sheeting and personnel dedicated to wiping away condensation as it formed. Even with these efforts plants can be overwhelmed by uncontrolled humidity, possibly facing USDA actions if not corrected.