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Hygiene in cold rooms

UV-C technology for germ-free storage under controlled conditions

Cold rooms are the backbone of food logistics, catering, and processing. But it is precisely here, where low temperatures and high humidity meet, that ideal conditions arise for microorganisms, mold, and bacteria—especially in hard-to-reach places such as corners, cooling fins, and in the air.

With oxytec's UV-C air and surface cleaning systems, you can ensure permanently hygienic conditions – without chemicals, without residues, without interrupting operations.

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Common hygiene issues in cold rooms

area Stresses Special features
Air circulation Mold spores, germs, bioaerosols Air distribution promotes spread
Surfaces & shelves Condensation, mold growth Cooling surfaces difficult to clean
Evaporators / cooling technology Bacteria, slime formation, germ hotspots High maintenance, unhygienic air flow
Door areas / airlocks Temperature changes, germs, humidity Heavy traffic

Why use Oxytec in cold storage rooms?

Measurably reduces germs, mold, and odors

Prevents biofilm and slime formation in the evaporator area

Ensures stable storage conditions with high product safety

Minimizes cleaning effort—fewer disinfection cycles necessary

Reduces downtime and extends the service life of technology and goods

Legal requirements

Food Hygiene Regulation (EC) No. 852/2004

  • Requires "appropriate measures to prevent contamination"
  • Oxytec systems support the implementation of HACCP concepts
  • Germ reduction in the air as an active component of process hygiene

VDI 6022 and DIN EN 16798

  • UV-C is recognized as a technology for improving hygiene in HVAC systems
  • Also recommended for cooled rooms and production areas
  • Use is demonstrably effective and legally compliant

Safe storage means sterile storage.

With Oxytec technology, you can ensure lasting freshness, longer shelf life, and hygienic safety—from the refrigerated shelf to the cold storage room.

Get advice now—for new construction, retrofitting, or quality assurance.

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oxytec technologies for cold storage applications

UV-C air disinfection

  • Compact UV-C units for wall or ceiling installation
  • Designed for continuous operation in cold environments
  • Germ-free air circulation without flow obstructions

UV-C surface cleaning

Direct radiation on ceilings, evaporators, walls, or shelves

Prevents biofilm and spore growth

Devices with splash-proof stainless steel housing for safe use

Mobile disinfection units

  • For temporary applications in temporary storage facilities, conversions, or rezoning areas
  • Plug-and-play, ready for immediate use
  • Can also be combined with CO₂ or temperature monitoring

Typical areas of application

Fresh meat and sausage storage

Fish cold stores and maturing rooms

Cooling zones in restaurants, commercial kitchens, or bakeries

Packaged or open fresh produce—e.g., salads, cheese, dough

Central storage rooms in food retail or hotels

Your advantages with oxytec

Permanently germ-free storage conditions – without interruption

No chemicals – no residues on products

Less cleaning effort and longer service life for the technology

Reduced odor formation, more stable temperature control

Easy retrofitting and safe continuous operation – even in cold conditions

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the air in cold rooms so critical in terms of hygiene?

Even when it's cold: mold spores, bacteria, and bioaerosols can settle in cold rooms—especially in the following cases:

  • Humid air circulation
  • Condensation
  • Inadequately cleaned surfaces or evaporators

These germs spread through the circulating air and can contaminate products or packaging.

How does UV-C technology combat germs in cold rooms?

UV-C light (254 nm) inactivates microorganisms by destroying their DNA/RNA.
The following applies:

  • 99.99% germ reduction possible
  • Effective against bacteria, viruses, mold spores
  • Purely physical – no chemicals or residues

Do UV-C devices also work at low temperatures?

Yes – Oxytec devices are specially designed for use in cold rooms down to −25°C:

  • Temperature-resistant electronics
  • Stainless steel housing
  • Condensation-proof design

They work reliably even in deep-freeze or rapid-cooling zones.

Where will the devices be installed?

Depending on requirements:

  • On the ceiling for air sterilization
  • Directly on the evaporator to prevent biofilm
  • On the wall or above shelves for surface irradiation
  • Mobile versions for selective sterilization are also available

Is it still necessary to clean and disinfect despite UV-C?

Yes – UV-C supplements but does not replace basic cleaning.
However:

  • Fewer cleaning intervals necessary
  • Significantly less slime formation
  • Less aggressive use of chemicals
  • Less downtime due to disinfection stoppages

How often do UV-C lamps need to be replaced?

Usually once a year. The service life is:

  • approx. 9,000–10,000 operating hours
  • Replacement can be combined with maintenance or filter replacement
  • oxytec offers automatic maintenance reminders on request

Does UV-C affect the products in the warehouse?

No—the devices are installed in such a way that no direct UV radiation falls on the food.
The air and critical surfaces (e.g., cooling fins, wall niches) are sterilized, not the goods.

Is there any evidence of its effectiveness?

Yes – our systems are:

  • laboratory tested
  • validatable according to HACCP standards
  • documentable for audits, certifications, and authorities

We provide all technical evidence and documentation.

Is the technology eligible for funding?

In many cases, yes—for example, in the context of:

  • Food hygiene investments
  • Energy efficiency programs
  • Support programs for skilled trades, retail, or hotels

We can help with the technical description for the funding application.