Axiall Corp., a new Atlanta-based company created by the merger of Georgia Gulf and PPG Industries in January, provides a safe, simple and cost-effective water treatment option for food packing and fresh-cut industries through its Accu-Tab tablet chlorination system.The Accu-Tab system chlorinates wash water to help minimize and prevent cross-contamination of food by killing harmful bacteria that can lead to outbreaks.

“The Accu-Tab tablet chlorination system was introduced to the aquatics and pool markets over 20 years ago and the system has been serving the produce and fresh-cut industries for over 10 years,” said Brian Newsome, industrial market manager for water treatment products at Axiall.  “With an increased focus on food safety due to the recently proposed Food Safety & Modernization Act, the Accu-Tab team feels there are real benefits [to the produce industry] in understanding this technology for their disinfection needs.”

The Accu-Tab system chlorinates wash water to help minimize and prevent cross-contamination of food by killing harmful bacteria that can lead to outbreaks, which has been a major concern for the produce industry as evidenced by the recent proposed Food & Drug Administration legislation, Mr. Newsome explained. The system, which is installed by trained specialists, can be used in any fresh-cut or food packing environment and is much safer than bleach systems, as there is a reduced risk of spills and leaks.

The system’s advanced technology combines specially engineered chlorinators with proprietary three-inch calcium hypochlorite tablets to form a certified system. There are many different model sizes available to meet customer requirements and demands.

Mr. Newsome noted that simple, gravity-feed systems are available, as well as injection-type control systems, which actively monitor chlorine residuals in packinghouse wash water.

“Accu-Tab equipment requires minimal maintenance, in most cases, once per year, allowing produce packers and processors to focus on other important operations,” he added.

The Accu-Tab system is certified by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the Environmental Protection Agency, the Food & Drug Administration and the National Science Foundation. It is also organic certified.