Essentially, hot filling of the Juice Production Line is a process of injecting hot liquid into the container and then inverting, allowing heat to sterilize the container and/or lid. The liquid must be between 194 and 203 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure disinfection and the use of containers that do not change shape at elevated temperatures, such as glass and certain types of plastics, are required. The heat treatment lasts for 15 to 30 seconds, which is sufficient to ensure sterilization.

After thermal cycling, the contents are cooled to between 180 and 185 degrees Fahrenheit before being transferred to the final container (in some cases) and sealed. Cooling after transfer was continued for 3 minutes.

There are several different containers available for the hot filling process, including glass, cardboard food containers and plastics, although not all types of plastics are suitable.

There are several important considerations when properly performing hot filling bottles:
Hot fill balance

The heat eventually changes the surface it touches, potentially changing the taste, color, and even nutrients and minerals in the product or material. Therefore, a balance must be reached between the temperature and the length of time the container is exposed to heat. Cool immediately after hot filling.
Hot fill monitoring

Another important factor in hot-fill bottles is the ongoing monitoring process. This includes the temperature of the liquid and the temperature of the container. If the temperature is too low, microbial preparations may be produced, which may pose health and safety risks.

Thus, hot fill manufacturing typically includes a recirculation system that maintains production activity with the backup system in place if the container or liquid drops below a preset temperature.
Hot filling bottle material

Not all packaging materials are suitable for the hot filling process. For example, exposure of standard PET bottles to high temperatures can change shape or collapse. Therefore, specific containers known as "heat set" bottles are specifically designed to handle the needs of hot fill processing.

These custom containers are heavier in the body and neck to withstand heat. In addition, the cap is heavier.
Hot filling bottle contents

Not all content is suitable for hot filling, such as low acid drinks and food or beverages containing fiber or pulp. In addition, some materials are susceptible to degradation or deterioration upon exposure to high temperatures.

High acid foods suitable for hot filling include products with a pH below 4.6. The acidity level determines the number of spores that survive the sterilization process. Substances with a pH of 4.6 or higher produce multiple spores and are therefore considered unsafe. An acid level below 4.6 will ensure that the bacteria do not grow in the remaining spores.

Please note that food or beverages may continue to deteriorate or deteriorate if they are exposed to water or heat in other aspects of the packaging, shipping or storage process.
Hot filling cost

There are several cost considerations in terms of hot fill processing. First, heavier custom containers are more complex to produce than traditional PET or other materials, and therefore cost more.

In addition, the energy required to repeat the heating and cooling cycles can be expensive. This also has an impact on the environment as heat and energy are expanding at a higher rate.

Shanghai Jimei Food Machinery Co., Ltd. provides professional solutions for various production and packaging. We are experts in this field and the factors considered are very comprehensive. Do you need an expert like this? Then come and contact us. We also have the Milk Powder Making Machine. If you have any needs, please feel free to contact us!