A central Florida citrus processor produces fresh juice and frozen concentrated juices from November through June. They have a wastewater treatment plant which consists of a 0.9 million gallon equalization basin, a 2 million gallon aeration basin followed by a clarifier, and another aeration basin followed by a final clarifier. Their flow is approximately 1 million gallons per day with an influent COD of 5,000 ppm and an influent TOC of 2,000 ppm.

Prior to Munox inoculation, the citrus processor experienced regular plant upsets due to heavy loading and periodic shocks caused by the influx of pressed liquors. The pressed liquor material contains significant amounts of citrus peel oils, terpenes and alcohols. Each of these compounds, besides being difficult to degrade, may also inhibit microbial growth. The pressed liquor intrusion not only leads to plant upsets, but also leads to extended recovery. Poor plant efficiency accompanies the delayed recovery. Off site sludge addition was sometimes required to repopulate the mixed liquor and speed the recovery of the system.

Munox addition proved very beneficial in enhancing the overall operation of the citrus processor WWTP. The COD and TOC values from Tank 2 (the first aeration tank), Tank 4 (the second aeration tank), and the effluent clearly show increased efficacy of operation when 60 days of Munox inoculation is compared with the same 60 day period from the previous year. Although both COD and TOC loads were 34% greater, COD and TOC values were reduced by 30% and 26%, respectively, compared to the previous year. The percent removal efficiency for COD and TOC increased by 7.8% and 7.2% respectively.

The addition of Munox to the citrus processor wastewater treatment system has produced a more uniform and predictable plant operation with accompanying resistance to and enhanced recovery from shock upsets.

“Food processing companies can benefit by learning about current methods and interventions that can assist in effectively managing their water resources. Without the appropriate knowledge and use of these wastewater management techniques, these companies will continue to lose money through water use charges, raw material losses, sewage surcharges, and possible fines from environmental agencies.” - NC Cooperative Extension Service “Wastewater management and treatment are the predominant concerns in the food processing industry . . . . The opportunities for pollution prevention are mainly in the discharge of wastewater. The greatest quantity of pollutants are biodegradable organic material (measured as BOD).” - Wisconsin DNR “Traditionally, the food processing industry has been a large water user . . . Primary issues of concern are BOD, TSS, excessive nutrient loading . . . which are a result of animal processing; and residual chlorine and pesticide levels.” - EPA “All food processing sectors within this report view ‘wastewater’ as the primary area of concern.” “The industry will continue to implement advanced innovative techniques to lessen the environmental impact of food processing discharge wastewaters.” - EPA Proposed EPA effluent guidelines for Meat & Poultry Products : “The proposed regulations establish requirements for large meat and poultry products facilities to control discharge of conventional pollutants (BOD, TSS, FOG, COD and nutrient pollutants including ammonia)..... EPA is soliciting comment on this proposal, and specifically requesting information on POTW interferences cause by Meat & Poulty Producers.” - Feb. 2002

Osprey Biotechnics
1833-A 57th Street
Sarasota, FL 34243
Phone (941) 351-2700
Fax (941) 351-0026
Email: Info@OspreyBiotechnics.com
(800)553-7785