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Sterilization Modes in an Autoclave
                 

Sterilization Modes in an Autoclave

  • Icon How to choose the time?
  • Icon How to choose the temperature?

Autoclaving Products:

Autoclave "A16 electro" (Universal)

Autoclave "A16 electro" (Universal)
9700 UAH
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Steam Valve

Steam Valve
600 UAH
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Autoclave Twist-Off Lid 82 mm (50 pcs)

Autoclave Twist-Off Lid 82 mm (50 pcs)
350 UAH
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Autoclave "A16 electro" (Universal)

Autoclave "A16 electro" (Universal)
9700 UAH
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Buy

Lid Clamp SКО Set 10 pcs

Lid Clamp SКО Set 10 pcs
400 UAH
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Autoclave Twist-Off Lid 82 mm (50 pcs)

Autoclave Twist-Off Lid 82 mm (50 pcs)
350 UAH
Details
Buy

Watch the video on temperature and time in the autoclave:

How to Choose the Right Sterilization Mode?

Have you ever faced the question: “How to correctly choose the time and temperature for sterilizing a dish?” In this article, we will uncover the formulas for ideal preservation and provide some useful tips.

The operating modes of the autoclave are based on the combination of temperature and time necessary to destroy bacteria, properly cook, and preserve dishes for long-term storage. It’s important to understand that the time spent in the autoclave at a certain temperature directly affects the quality and safety of the product. Surely, you have noticed that recommendations from different manufacturers and experts may vary. So how do you choose the time and temperature? We explain below.

1. Follow the manufacturer's autoclave recommendations

The sterilization mode in the autoclave depends on the specific model and design of the device. In the manufacturer's instructions, you will find recommendations for different dishes and modes.
These are based on thorough research and real data. Also, with every Uteho autoclave, we provide a small recipe book with basic cooking information.

2. Consider the type of product

Sterilization modes vary depending on the density of the product:
  • Meat, fish, legumes require longer sterilization at high temperatures.
  • Vegetables and fruits cook faster and at a lower temperature.
For example, autoclave operating modes for different products:
Meat preserves and meat porridge:
  • for autoclaves with the thermometer placed at the top of the autoclave - 110°C, 40 min;
  • for autoclaves with the thermometer placed at the bottom of the autoclave - 120°C, 40 min;
Poultry preserves:
  • for autoclaves with the thermometer placed at the top of the autoclave - 110°C, 30 min;
  • for autoclaves with the thermometer placed at the bottom of the autoclave - 120°C, 30 min;
Eggplant caviar:
  • for autoclaves with the thermometer placed at the top of the autoclave - 100°C, 15 min;
  • for autoclaves with the thermometer placed at the bottom of the autoclave - 110°C, 15 min;

3. Test before full loading

When testing a new recipe and temperature mode, first run the autoclave with the minimum amount of jars. This will help determine readiness. Only after this, you can load the autoclave fully.

4. Consider the volume of jars

The larger the jar, the longer the sterilization time. For example:
  • Pickled tomatoes in a 1-liter jar sterilize for 5 minutes
  • Pickled tomatoes in a 3-liter jar sterilize for 15 minutes

5. Use Uteho recommendations

To make it easier to choose the autoclaving temperature and time, we:
  • regularly publish new video recipes on our YouTube channel;
  • have a section called "Autoclave Recipes" on our website;
  • prepared for you the printed “Big Recipe Book” (99 recipes for autoclave: from meat dishes to soups and drinks).

Why is the temperature in autoclaves with the thermometer placed at the top 110°C for meat, and 120°C for autoclaves with the thermometer placed at the bottom?

In autoclave models where the thermometer is located at the top, the temperature measured is not the temperature of the water in the autoclave but the air temperature at the top. Therefore, considering all errors, the time to reach working temperature, lag in readings, and heat inertia, we focus on the 110°C temperature (shown on the thermometer), even though the water temperature is 10°C higher, i.e., 120°C.
When the thermometer is located at the bottom, the water temperature in the autoclave is measured, so we base the mode on 120°C readings.
Thus, in both cases, the temperature is optimal for meat products.

Does the sterilization mode depend on the type of jar?

No, sterilization modes are the same for:
  • Glass jars,
  • Tinned cans,
  • Retort pouches.
You can use any jar and still achieve stable results.

Do the sterilization modes differ between the steam and water methods?

Yes! The temperature and sterilization time differ between the steam and water autoclaving modes. In steam mode, the temperature should be 10°C higher, and the sterilization time twice as long, as this change is due to faster reaching of working temperature in steam sterilization and quicker cooling.

What happens if the recommended temperature is not followed?

When an incorrect mode is set:
  • A higher temperature may lead to a loss of flavor or even burning of the product.
  • A lower temperature – the product will not cook properly, which can cause spoilage of the preservation.
If you need to adjust the mode, change the time, not the temperature. For example, for very fresh meat, you can reduce the sterilization time from 40 minutes to 30 minutes. For tougher meat – increase the time.

How not to make a mistake with the autoclaving mode?

The correct choice of sterilization mode is the key to safe and tasty preserves. By following the recommendations, you can easily determine how to choose the required mode and how to cook in an autoclave.

Happy preserving with Uteho!

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