Modelling heat processing of dairy products

Abstract: This chapter discusses the application of computer modelling to optimise the heat processing of milk. The chapter first reviews types of heat processing equipment used in the dairy industry. Then, the types of objectives that can be achieved using model-based process optimisation are discussed. Commonly encountered deterministic and stochastic modelling approaches are addressed, before highlighting some future trends in computer modelling. The chapter includes two case studies of the optimisation of milk pasteurisation, which serve to demonstrate the main advantages and disadvantages of the different modelling approaches.