A Defence Science and Technology Organisation study into into the viability of introducing microwave-assisted thermal sterilisation technology, should be completed in about six months.
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That was the news for those attending last Thursday's official opening by Assistant Defence Minister Stuart Robert of the Scottsdale facility's $19 million, two-year redevelopment.
Mr Roberts said that the facility can now produce 80,000 freeze-dried meals and 175,000 freeze-dried packets of rice for soldiers’ rations packs a year, as well as being able to explore new food processing technologies.
``The DSTO will partner with the Australian Army and the Centre for Food Innovation at the University and CSIRO to undertake (the) study into the viability of introducing microwave-assisted thermal sterilisation technology,'' he said.
``The technology, which is already being used in the US, can produce better-tasting packaged foods in less time.
``The study will provide a cost-benefit analysis and identify the potential applications for the technology beyond the defence requirement, so industry can take an informed decision to invest in the technology.''
