Comparative terminal sterilization.

Thermal processing of product in its final container to achieve product safety has been a major process operation of the pharmaceutical and food industries for many years. The original batch type autoclave (retort) is still in prevalent use today. However, high volume continuous and semi-continuous methods are also utilized, primarily in the food industry. Each different terminal sterilization method and load type requires assurance of process adequacy. This paper examines some of the types of moist heat terminal sterilizers in both the pharmaceutical and food industries and compares their features.