The "circular" and eco-sustainable disinfestation to counter Arthropods in food industry and poultry farms through high temperatures obtained from electric air heaters connected to generators powered by biometh

Abstract: After illustrating the innovative method of disinfestation carried out with heat (50
°C for > 38 hours) applied in the premises of the food sector (mills, pasta factories, etc.) and in poultry farms (eggs production) as an alternative to chemical substances (gases and
insecticides) for the elimination of all the vital stages of Arthropods (insects and mites), the
authors describe the technological aspects of the machinery used for these interventions and
their energetic needs. The use of electrically powered air heaters (19 KW/each, about 62.000
Btu) introduced in variable numbers inside the rooms due to the volumes to be treated (1 every 250-400 m3) is made possible by the availability of energy in the context in which the
disinfestation takes place. In food companies, air heaters are connected to the company’s
electricity grid, while in poultry the energy required is supplied by generators positioned outside and powered by diesel fuel. The first high-temperature disinfestation treatment carried out inside a poultry farm using biomethane originating from the treatment of wet waste, as an energy source is then described in detail, pursuing the most recent European guidelines on ecosustainability aimed at reducing the use of chemicals in agri-food chains (pesticides reduction from Farm to Fork), for the achievement of a climate neutrality (Green Deal) guaranteeing the hygiene of the products and the safety of the consumer.