#United States #Malvern, Pennsylvania #High Pressure Processing #Universal Pure #Hiperbaric 525i

Universal Pure Expands HPP Capacity with Hiperbaric 525i

Introduction
In a significant move to enhance food safety and maintain quality, Universal Pure has recently installed a new Hiperbaric 525i system at its facility in Malvern, Pennsylvania. This development marks Universal Pure’s commitment to meeting the increasing demand for High Pressure Processing (HPP) services across North America. With this new addition, the company has not only solidified its standing as the largest independent provider of HPP and cold-chain services in the region but has also increased its nationwide HPP capacity to a formidable total of 23 machines across seven facilities.

Understanding HPP Technology
High Pressure Processing (HPP) is a state-of-the-art food preservation method that utilizes high isostatic pressure, reaching up to 6,000 bar (600 MPa or 87,000 psi). This innovative technique effectively inactivates foodborne pathogens and spoilage microorganisms without relying on heat or chemical preservatives. By using cold water and pressure, HPP extends product shelf life while ensuring that taste, texture, and nutritional integrity are preserved. The advantages of HPP are being increasingly recognized, making it an essential methodology in the current food production landscape.

Investment Rationale and Market Trends
Universal Pure's recent investment reflects a positive growth trajectory across various product categories, most notably fresh pet food, premium proteins, dips and spreads, and beverages. These segments rely heavily on HPP technology to satisfy food safety and distribution requirements while maintaining clean-label freshness. As stated by Frank Jimenez, CEO of Universal Pure, "We continue to see increasing demand from our customers as more brands recognize the value HPP brings to food safety and shelf-life extension."

This expansion will allow Universal Pure to provide enhanced capacity, quicker service, and reduced lead times to its customers, especially those operating within the food and beverage sectors.

Strategic Location and Services
The choice of the Malvern, PA site for the new Hiperbaric 525i is strategic, favored for its strong customer base, excellent logistics connectivity, and growing demand from food producers in the Northeast. The facility provides a comprehensive range of services including HPP, cold storage, packaging, secondary packaging, labeling, kitting, distribution, and various value-added services. This integrated service offering enables Universal Pure to function as a one-stop solution for food safety and quality assurance.

Commitment to Food Safety and Innovation
Rob Peregrina, USA Executive Director of Hiperbaric, expressed pride in their partnership with Universal Pure, highlighting that the addition of a fourth Hiperbaric 525i underscores Universal Pure's commitment to food safety and innovation. The Hiperbaric 525i is recognized for its advanced technology, high throughput, and efficient design that facilitate high-volume tolling operations. Furthermore, its ease of integration and maintenance ensures optimum performance, catering to the demands of large-scale operations.

Looking Ahead
Founded in 2001, Universal Pure has transitioned from a single tolling facility to the largest network of HPP and cold-chain service centers in the U.S. Their mission centers around creating a safer, high-quality food system by extending shelf life and ensuring food safety without resorting to heat or preservatives. Looking ahead, Universal Pure is poised to celebrate two significant milestones in 2026: its 25th anniversary and 15 years of leadership in the HPP industry.

As consumer awareness and demand for food safety rise, Universal Pure’s commitment to innovative processing technologies like HPP will be central to its ongoing growth and success in the market.