Aerated Steam Sanitization of Whole Fresh Cantaloupes Reduces and Controls Rind-Associated Listeria but Enhances Fruit Susceptibility to Secondary Colonization.

Water vapor (steam) at a high temperature can be used to sanitize the surface of fresh, whole cantaloupe melons in a continuous-feed manner. Both Listeria bacteria and spoilage organisms are markedly reduced from initial levels and survivor outgrowth severely restricted during subsequent refrigerated storage. This approach to microorganism control is likely most applicable in situations where rinds and flesh are to be separated immediately via further processing.