Use of Weibull frequency distribution model to describe the inactivation of Alicyclobacillus acidoterrestris by high pressure at different temperatures

The survival curves of Alicyclobacillus acidoterrestris by high hydrostatic pressure were obtained at two pressures (350 and 450 MPa) and three temperature levels (35, 45 and 50 °C) in BAM broth. Tailing (upward concavity) was observed in all survival curves. Weibull model was fitted to these data and goodness of fit of this model was investigated. Regression coefficients (R²), root mean square (RMSE) values and residual plot strongly suggested that Weibull model produced good fit to the data. A better fit was observed for the data at lower pressure (350 MPa). Shape factors of the Weibull model (n values) for 350 MPa at 35, 45 and 50 °C were significantly different from each other (P < 0.05). Two linear emprical equations were obtained for scale factors (b values) at the temperature values studied for 350 and 450 MPa. Such pressure–temperature inactivation models form the engineering basis for design, evaluation and optimization of high hydrostatic pressure processes as a new preservation technique.