The total moisture percentage includes both bound water and free water. The Aw value indicates the amount of free water in the moisture percentage. The ratio of free water to total water determines whether microbial growth is possible. This is why measuring the Aw value is so important.
Preventing microbiological growth
To prevent microbial growth, you have to keep the Aw value below 0.6 Aw. You can do so by binding the free water with salt, other binding agents or using methods such as smoking the product.
Aw value interesting in many sectors
You will be aware that measuring the Aw value is important in the food industry. It is used to determine the shelf life of products and so you can demonstrate among other things that your product has been kept below the listeria limit.
Measuring the Aw value is also essential in other sectors. For example, the pharmaceutical industry uses the Aw value to determine whether a tablet disintegrates quickly. It is handy to know when the tablet needs to release its active ingredient. Seed enhancement companies use the Aw value to monitor seed germination and the Aw value also plays a major role in the animal feed industry.
Do you want to improve your production process? Are you interested in finding out how Aw measurements can help you?
If so, please contact Mieke de Kunder at r.vdbogaard@pedak.nl or call +31 (0)6 28 38 26 90