Glossary

Definitions for the key technical terms used in this debate.

Quick definitions for common terms in the HPP vs raw feeding debate.

MPa

Megapascal, a unit of pressure. HPP for microbial inactivation is commonly discussed around 400–600 MPa.^[1][2]

Log reduction

A way to describe how much a microbial population is reduced. (Example: 5-log reduction ≈ 99.999% reduction.) Real-world outcomes depend on many factors.^[1]

VBNC

Viable but non-culturable: organisms may be alive but not detected by standard culture methods. Some studies report VBNC states after pressure treatment under certain conditions.^[5]

Hurdle technology

Using multiple controls together (e.g., sanitation + packaging + freezing + intervention) to reduce risk. HPP is sometimes one “hurdle.”