Are open vats suitable for pasteurization?

Open vats are not suitable for pasteurization primarily because they struggle to maintain the required, precise temperatures essential for the effective pasteurization process. Pasteurization relies on controlled heating to eliminate pathogens and bacteria without compromising the quality of the product. Open vats allow for significant heat loss due to exposure to air, making it extremely difficult to achieve and sustain the high temperatures necessary for pasteurization over the required durations. Additionally, the risk of contamination is higher in open systems, which further undermines the safety and efficacy of the process.

While some processes might utilize open containers for certain applications, they do not meet the stringent standards necessary for pasteurization of food products intended for public consumption. The California regulatory framework specifically prohibits the use of open vats for pasteurization due to these inherent risks, ensuring food safety and protecting public health.