abstract |
A method of sterilization which comprises treating a microorganism with an ultraviolet irradiated solution of hydrogen peroxide, the wavelength of the ultraviolet radiation being wholly or predominantly below 325 nm and the concentration of the hydrogen peroxide being no greater than 10% by weight and such that the microorganism is rendered non-viable by synergism between the radiation and the hydrogen peroxide. The invention is particularly applicable to the treatment of spores contaminating food packaging. |