Question

In canning and retorting of foods, which of the following is the correct expression of Ball process time (B)? Assume: \(t_p = \) processor’s process time; \(t_c = \) come-up time.

• A. \( B = t_p + 0.42 t_c \)
• B. \( B = t_p + 0.30 t_c \)
• C. \( B = t_p + 0.50 t_c \)
• D. \( B = t_p + 0.25 t_c \)

Hint:

In thermal processing (canning/retorting), the Ball formula accounts for both process time and the effect of come-up time, with the empirical fraction \(0.30\).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

In the canning and retorting process of foods, determining the Ball process time (B) is crucial for ensuring the safety and quality of canned products. The Ball process time is calculated using a specific expression that accounts for the processing conditions.
The components of this calculation include:

• \( t_p \): The processor's process time, which is the duration the food is kept at the target temperature to ensure safe processing.
• \( t_c \): The come-up time, which is the time taken for the product to reach the processing temperature from its initial state.

To accurately compute the Ball process time, the following mathematical formula is used:
\( B = t_p + 0.42 t_c \)
This equation indicates that the Ball process time (B) is the sum of the processor's process time and 42% of the come-up time. This method accounts for the heating period that is often not directly involved in microbial lethality but is important for determining the overall time-temperature profile necessary for effective preservation and safety. The correct choice from the given options is \( B = t_p + 0.42 t_c \).