Steam pasteurization is a natural process used to control micro-organisms in food. Steam pasteurization is the only natural alternative to the conventional treatment methods (e.g. irradiation) used to control micro-organisms.  Exim Spices commissioned the first Steam Lab in Africa in late 2006.  Herbs, spices, tea, nuts and dried fruits and vegetables have been successfully treated in this state-of-the-art facility.   Treatment methods designed specifically for each ingredient ensure that all steam treated products are of optimum quality.  Colour and flavour of the products are not compromised however the micro-organisms are still reduced.

The Naturalclean brand has been launched by Exim Spices at the Food Ingredients Africa 2008 show.  The Naturalclean brand represents steam pasteurized  dried ingredients in bulk format.

The batch system ensures strict batch traceability and prevents any cross-contamination between products.  The steam pasteurization methods have been validated with extensive microbiological testing at SANAS accredited laboratories, and thus ensure complete microbiological control.

A wide range of Naturalclean raw material ingredients can be ordered from Exim Spices, in addition to offering the service of contract pasteurisation of products. Exim spice can custom develop a pasteurisation recipe for any dry, non hydroscopic product required.

Examples of raw materials include: