Fresh Thai red curry paste in a semi solid
form has a short shelf life due to its high moisture
content (more than 40%). The growing popularity
of Thai food around the world has created the need
to preserve this product. The common commercial
method used to extend shelf life is thermal
processing in either a can or retortable pouch. This
packaging is convenient to use and facilitates easy
delivery, which is especially beneficial for the
export market. It is classified as a low acid canned
food due to its pH of 5-6 and aw greater than 0.85
(USFDA, 2007). For commercial sterilization,
high heat treatment using a temperature greater
than 100°C is required for product safety, to
destroy the harmful bacteria and their spores.
Nowadays, heat conditions for commercial
sterilization of this product are 116-120°C to target
F0 in 6-12 min