MXPA98003219A - Methods of cleaning / sanitation, compositions and / or articles to produce - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a basic cleaning composition using toxicologically acceptable ingredients for cleaning fruits and vegetables, sprayed on apples, lettuce and the like liquid formulations comprising carbonates, surfactant, such as oleate, alcohol ethoxylates, etc., and acid neutralized phosphoric to remove dirt and undesirable deposits, articles are described for the application of the compositions to agricultural products by aspersion

Description

CLEANING / SANITATION METHODS. COMPOSITIONS AND / OR ITEMS TO PRODUCE THEM TECHNICAL FIELD The present invention relates to methods for removing dirt and other undesirable residues from agricultural products, v.gr-, fruits and vegetables, which is routed to ingestion by humans and other lower animals and for detersive compositions, especially in liquid form, which are especially suitable for practicing such methods.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION It is well known and appreciated by consumers that fruits and vegetables should be washed thoroughly before ingestion in order to remove dirt and other undesirable residues that may inconveniently adhere to the surface thereof. In addition, some consumers want to remove additional waxy coatings that can be applied to some fruits to delay moisture loss for increased storage life and to improve appearance. It has been calculated that 95% of consumers recognize the need for thorough washing but, commonly, only tap water is used for this purpose. Approximately 5% of these consumers who wash vegetables use a household cleaner, typically a liquid dishwashing product, to help ensure cleanliness. However, the dishwashing products are not specifically intended for such use, but are simply designed to provide high and persistent foam which makes it inconvenient to remove fruits or vegetables that have been washed with them. It will be apparent that the formulation of truly efficient compositions, especially those that consumers can use with confidence, to wash fruits and vegetables presents a unique problem for the formulator, which is why many ingredients described in the art would presumably not be suitable for use. in direct contact with food in which it can not be removed completely. In addition, it would be especially convenient to provide toxicologically acceptable and effective cleaning compositions for fruits and vegetables in the form of substantially low-foam liquid solutions that are clear or have only minimal heat. Liquid solutions are convenient for the user, since they can be applied directly to dirty fruits and vegetables, then rinsing in tap water. The clarity of the liquids implies cleaning for the user and in this way is highly desirable. The low foaming is an important attribute so that the removal of the rinsing solution is achieved easily and quickly. It would also be of convenience if such compositions can be provided in the form of concentrates, which the consumer will dilute before use and / or apply to fruits and vegetables as a direct spray. Unfortunately, many toxicologically acceptable cleaning ingredients do not meet the aforementioned requirements, for clear, low foaming and dilutable liquid products. Many detersive surfactants form cloudy or even opaque suspensions even in mild water. Of course, many surfactants are specifically designed to be high foaming. Still others form relatively difficult phases in their concentrated form. It has been disclosed that an aqueous carbonate cleaning solution, properly formulated, eg, with a basic carbonate pH regulator and other ingredients, can provide liquid compositions having the desired properties described above. It has also been described that preferred compositions are preferred. they can be formulated in the basic pH scale. Even when said basic compositions have a soapy feel, they are preferred over the acidic compositions herein for the removal of artificial waxy coatings, especially of fruits such as apples. However, the invention also comprises basic compositions that have less soapy feel.

ANTECEDENTS OF THE TECHNIQUE The use and selection of cleaning ingredients for the purpose of washing fruits and vegetables is described by the Code of Federal Regulations of the United States, title 21, section 173.315: "Ingredients for use in washing or lye peeling of fruits and vegetables". These regulations restrict the ingredients that can be used in direct contact with food to those described as "generally considered safe" (GCCS), and a few other ingredients selected. These sections also provide certain limitations on the amount of material that can be used in a given context. Among these ingredients, the experienced formulator will find that only a few ingredients can provide effective cleaning of hydrophobic residues, such as waxes, oils or synthetic chemical residues such as pesticides. It is recognized that these types of residues are more easily removed in water by means of active surface ingredients, or by organic solvents in the absence of water. Other types of dirt, especially dirt of insoluble particles that do not disperse in water, are effectively removed in water by means of active surface materials, especially when they are aided by complex anionic salts, such as citrates (polycarboxylates) or polyphosphate salts. Within this limited group of ingredients the scale of effective cleaning compositions suitable for the task of cleaning fruits and vegetables, especially as practiced by individual consumers, has not been previously described. It is convenient to formulate liquid compositions which are suitable either for direct application to produce, preferably by spray application, or can be provided in a suitable concentrated form to allow convenient dilution in a water basin or container for washing the agricultural product by immersion. In addition, it is convenient that the compositions are low foaming, easy to rinse and leave no residue. The preferred compositions should be gentle to the hands, especially for direct application. Food Chemical News. Inc., 1991, p. 334.1, reports that PEG 200-9500 has been clarified pursuant to §178.3750 as a component in articles to be used in contact with food (Fed. Register, October 5, 1968). However, to wash agricultural products, polyethylene glycol must be stated to be GCCS.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION The present invention encompasses methods for cleaning agricultural products, especially fruits and vegetables, (and compositions, as described below, for practicing such methods) at a basic pH. The present invention comprises various aspects including: I. A method for cleaning agricultural products comprising contacting the surfaces of said agricultural products by direct application of an aqueous cleaning solution typically comprising: (a) carbonate pH regulator basic toxicologically acceptable at a level to provide from about 1% to about 10%, preferably from about 1.25% to about 3.6%, most preferably from about 1.43%, by weight of carbonate ion (C? 32 ~), such as basic materials of potassium and / or sodium, e.g., the carbonate and / or bicarbonate salts; (b) optionally, but preferably, from about 0.01% to about 15% Ce-Cie fatty acid; (c) optionally, from about 0.1% to about 4% by weight of anionic surfactant, especially ethoxylated and / or propoxylated adducts of C12-18 aliphatic alcohols, but preferably less than about one-eighth of the amount of said fatty acid; (d) optionally, from about 0.1% to about 4% by weight of organic polycarboxylic acid, preferably citric acid; (e) optionally, up to about 0.2% by weight of stable base anionic surfactant such as the alkaline and alkaline earth salts of dodecylbenzene sulfonate; (f) optionally, a basic pH regulator without stable base carbonate such as basic potassium and / or sodium materials, e.g., hydroxides; (g) optionally, toxicologically acceptable preservative; (h) optionally, but preferably, from about 0.05% to about 10%, preferably from about 0.1% to about 5%, more preferably from about 0.3% to about 2% phosphoric acid; (i) optionally, at least about 0.05%, preferably from about 0.1% to about 10%, most preferably from about 0.25% to about 3.0% by weight, of water-soluble polyethylene glycol having a molecular weight of about 200, or more; and (j) the remainder comprises an aqueous vehicle selected from water and, optionally, a toxicologically acceptable organic solvent of low molecular weight, such as ethanol, glycerol, etc. of course, all the above acidic materials being neutralized under the alkaline conditions of the product, preferably neutralized with sodium and / or potassium, preferably potassium, compatible basic material, wherein said aqueous solution has a pH on the scale of 9.5 or more , preferably about 10.5 and even more preferably from about 11.5 to about 12.5, and said composition preferably being free of any material that is not toxicologically acceptable. Preferably, all the ingredients are GCCS. The inventions described herein preferably encompass compositions for use in the method of cleaning fruits and vegetables at a basic pH of about 9.5, which comprises: (a) toxicologically acceptable basic carbonate pH regulator at a level to provide about 1. % to about 10%, preferably from about 1.25% to about 3.6%, most preferably about 1.43%, by weight of carbonate ion (C? 32 ~), such as basic materials of potassium and / or sodium, .gr., the carbonate and / or bicarbonate salts; (b) optionally, but preferably, from about 0.01% to about 15% of neutralizing Cβ-18 fatty acid, preferably a member selected from the group consisting of sodium or potassium oleate (preferred), or about 0.5% to 10% by weight of sodium or potassium laurate; (c) optionally, from about 0.1% to about 4% by weight of nonionic surfactant, especially ethoxylate / propoxylated adducts of C12-18 aliphatic alcohols, but preferably less than one-eighth of the amount of said fatty acid; (d) optionally, but preferably, from about 0.2% to about 4% by weight of potassium and / or sodium polycarboxylate, which has builder ability and preferably deriving from natural sources, such as potassium citrate and / or sodium, as a dispersant for particulate dirt; (e) optionally, up to about 0.1% by weight of stable base anionic surfactant such as the alkaline or alkaline earth salts of dodecylbenzene sulfonate; (f) optionally, a basic pH regulator without toxicologically acceptable carbonate such as basic potassium and / or sodium materials, e.g., hydroxides; (g) optionally, toxicologically acceptable preservative; (h) optionally, but preferably, from about 0.05% to about 10%, preferably from about 0.1% to about 5%, more preferably from about 0.3% to about 2% phosphoric acid; and (i) optionally, at least about 0.05%, preferably from about 0.1% to about 10%, most preferably from about 0.25% to about 3.0% by weight, of polyethylene glycol having a molecular weight of about 200, or more; (j) the remainder preferably comprises aqueous vehicle selected from water and, optionally, toxicologically acceptable organic solvent and low molecular weight, such ethanol, glycerol, etc. preferably selected from water and water-ethanol; wherein said aqueous cleaning solution has a pH of 9.5 or more, preferably using carbonate salt, or salts, as the pH regulator (a); preferably with hydroxide base, to provide a pH of from about 11 to about 12.5, more preferably from about 11.5 to about 12.5. The compositions may be formulated as concentrates, wherein at least a portion of (i) is removed and the remaining ingredient levels are adjusted to complete the formula. In all the components of the above lists, if an ingredient can be classified in more than one place, it would be classified in the first place that appears. A preferred method for cleaning fruits and vegetables at a basic pH preferably of more than about 9.5, comprises contacting the surfaces of said fruits and vegetables with an aqueous cleaning solution comprising potassium oleate, preferably at a level of more than about 0.5% Potassium oleate is soft, rinses well, has a minimal odor, is effective for the removal of undesirable materials, especially wax, apples, has no overspray, and is very reliable, even when the composition is misused and Vegetables or fruits, etc., are not rinsed completely. Therefore, a surfactant only preferred for use in food cleaning materials such as vegetables and fruits. Potassium cation is more useful than sodium cation, especially in the absence of polyethylene glycol, since potassium oleate is quite soluble whereas sodium oleate tends to form a less soluble soap, especially at low temperatures.

An alkaline, concentrated method for cleaning agricultural products comprises contacting the surfaces of agricultural products with a cleaning solution containing from about 0.5% to about 15%, preferably from about 0.75% to about 8%, most preferably from about 1% to about 5%, surfactant, preferably one which is GCCS, and most preferably said oleate surfactant, having said cleaning solution a pH of from about 9.5 to about 12.5, preferably from about 11 to about 12.5, especially when the surfactant is a soap such as said oleate, more preferably from about 11.5 to about 12.3. Said compositions when used in an effective amount to clean apples coated with wax, will provide more effective removal of the wax when combined with the neutralized phosphoric acid. The removal of wax from apples is one of the most difficult cleaning tasks and therefore indicates superior overall performance. It is important to remove as much wax as possible to reduce the amount of any undesirable materials the wax can catch. Another preferred variation in the above methods for cleaning agricultural products by placing said cleaning solutions in a sprinkler container is to provide a spray of said solution to distribute the solution, or solutions, on the surfaces of the agricultural products while using only a minimum amount of the product. cleaning solution and reduces the exposure in the atmosphere of the remaining solution, where the solution is more likely to be contaminated and / or exposed to oxygen, both tending to cause undesirable changes in the solutions from considerations of functionality and / or aesthetics. In such spraying processes, there is only the need for a relatively small amount of material in the package, and this is convenient for the use of the individual consumer, since some consumers will not be able to handle large weights. For individual consumer use, typically, the container will contain no more than about eight liters, preferably no more than about four liters, especially when the container is a sprinkler container, even one having a tube that allows the sprinkler device to be manipulated while the bulky container remains in place. Most preferably said sprinkler containers contain approximately one liter, or less, of cleaning solution. The invention encompasses basic cleaning compositions both in dilute and concentrated form, specially adapted to practice said methods. (In the following description, the minor amounts of the specified ingredients show the diluted forms of the compositions herein and the larger amounts show the concentrated forms which are typically diluted by a factor of from about 1 to about 3.) The compositions can be concentrate even more for non-aqueous or solid liquids in accordance with that shown in the US patent 5,280,042, Lopes, said patent being incorporated by reference. Said compositions include the following. A composition for cleaning fruits and vegetables at a basic pH, comprising: (a) toxicologically acceptable basic carbonate pH buffer at a level to provide from about 1% to about 10%, preferably from about 1.25% to about 3.6% , more preferably about 1.43% as carbonate ion (C032-) such as basic potassium and / or sodium materials, eg, carbonate and / or bicarbonate salts; (b) from about 0.1% to about 15%, preferably from about 1% to about 5%, by weight of a member selected from the group consisting of sodium or potassium oleate (preferred), sodium laurate or of potassium or mixtures thereof; (c) optionally, from about 0.1% to about 4%, preferably from about 0.3% to about 1.0%, by weight of nonionic surfactant as described above; (d) from about 0.2% to about 4% by weight of polycarboxylic acid salt, especially potassium hydrogen citrate; (e) from about 0.3% to about 5% orthophosphoric acid; and (f) the remainder comprising aqueous vehicle selected from water and water-ethanol; wherein said composition has a pH of 9.5 or more. Preferred compositions for use herein in a concentrated alkaline method contain toxicologically acceptable basic carbonate pH regulator at a level to provide from about 1% to about 10%, preferably from about 1.25% to about 3.6%, most preferably of about 1.43% by weight of carbonate ion (C? 32 ~); from about 0.1% to about 15%, preferably from about 0.5% to about 8%, most preferably from about 1% to about 5%, detergent surfactant, preferably one that is GCCS; from about 0.3% to about 5% orthophosphoric acid and having a pH of from about 9.5 to about 12.5, preferably from about 11.5 to about 12.3. Such compositions, when used in an amount effective to clean wax-coated apples, will provide more effective removal of the wax. The removal of wax in apples is one of the most difficult cleaning tasks and therefore indicates superior overall performance. The present invention also encompasses improved tactile printing detergent compositions which are specially adapted for cleaning fruits and vegetables, comprising: (a) toxicologically acceptable basic carbonate pH regulator at a level to provide from about 1% to about 10%, preferably from about 1.25% to about 3.6%, more preferably about 1.43%, on carbonate ion (C? 32 ~), such as basic potassium and / or sodium materials, e.g., salts carbonate and / or bicarbonate; (b) at least about 0.1%, preferably from about 0.5% to about 8%, more preferably from about 1% to about 5%, by weight of a C12-18 fatty acid or salt of the mero; (c) at least 0.05%, preferably from about 0.1% to about 10%, more preferably from about 0.25% to about 3.0%, by weight, of water-soluble polyethylene glycol having a molecular weight of about 200 , or more; (d) from about 0.1% to about 5% neutralized orthophosphoric acid; and (e) water or water-ethanol fluid vehicle, said composition having a basic pH. The rest of the composition may comprise various optional auxiliary materials, pH adjusting agents, perfumes or essences, preservatives and the like. In a preferred mode, component (b) has a molecular weight in the range from about 300 to about 9500. Typical compositions herein are those in which component (a) is potassium oleate, and in which the of weight of (a) :( b) is on the scale from about 1: 2 to about 30: 1, preferably from about 1: 1 to about 15: 1. Compositions that have improved tactile printing are commonly formulated in the basic pH scale, preferably from about pH 9.5 to about pH 12.5. Preferred compositions have a viscosity at room temperature of less than about 100 centipoise, preferably less than about 50 centipoise for sprayable compositions. Preferred compositions for use herein contain only materials that are GCCS, including, of course, direct food additives that are secured by GCCS, to protect against possible misuse by the consumer. Traditionally, most suggestions for cleaning fruits and / or vegetables have contemplated a commercial scale in which there is usually more control over conditions, especially the amount and thoroughness of the rinse. The present invention, especially methods involving the use of hand activated trigger spray means are mainly / only suitable for use by individual consumers, so it is essential that added safety is added to the product. The failure to thoroughly rinse after washing is of minor importance if all the ingredients are GCCS. This is especially important when using compositions suitable for the removal of wax in apples. The large quantities of materials needed for the removal of wax create a hitherto unknown level of risk for individual consumers, many of whom are unlikely to read or follow the instructions that would allow the safe use of non-GCCS materials. The ingredients in the above compositions are preferably selected and used in proportions that provide substantially clear compositions. "Substantially clear" includes only minimal turbidity, and preferably the compositions are completely clear. The ingredients are also selected to have minimal odor, both initially and after storage. The lack of odor is especially important in compositions for use in food. The compositions preferably have a viscosity that is more than about 2 centipoise, preferably more than about 10 centipoise when in reagent, but thin under thinning to allow easy pouring, especially of aspersoree containers. Below the approximate pH of 9.7, the compositions may show some objectionable fatty acid odor. Even at the optimum pH above 11, some odor may persist. In order to cover this odor, the compositions may contain a perfume ingredient, or essence, GCCS. Especially for this use, oils derived from citrus fruits, e.g., oranges, lemons, limes, grapefruits, tangerines, tangerones, etc. are preferred. which contain relatively large amounts of terpenes. All documents cited herein are incorporated by reference.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION The following toxicologically acceptable ingredients are used in the preparation of the preferred compositions herein. By "toxicologically acceptable" is meant any residue from the ingredients of the compositions that can remain in the fruits or vegetables washed with it are safe ingested by humans and / or animals.

PH regulator The operation of the aqueous cleaning solution is directly related to the present level of carbonate ion. Potassium carbonate is a convenient and preferred basic pH regulator. The bicarbonate of eodium is a highly desirable material to add to the compositions of this invention as a part of the pH regulating system, since it is readily available as food grade bicarbonate and, therefore, is relatively inexpensive, while providing the composition a highly convenient purity. It has surprisingly been found that increasing the level of carbonate salts to provide a carbonate ion level greater than 1% provides improved cleaning, especially of waxes in apples. This improved cleaning is achieved without increasing the pH. Using carbonates is especially advantageous since they are relatively safe and readily available in food grades. The basic pH regulator system described herein not only provides a given initial pH scale, but also the ability to maintain high pH during use. In addition to the carbonates, other toxicologically acceptable basic pH regulators may be used in the compositions herein to maintain the pH of the product in the base scale. To facilitate foribility, it is highly preferred that said basic pH regulators are in the form of potassium eal, e.g., potassium citrate is a pH regulator and is a preferred diluent for particle properties. Compositions formulated with a mixture of potassium and sodium cations at molar ratios of from about 1: 1 to about 10: 1, preferably from about 2: 1 to about 8: 1, more preferably from about 4: 1 to about 5 : 1 from potaeio to eodio, v.gr. As provided by mixing potassium hydroxide (hydrate) and bicarbonate of eodium, they have convenient properties. The compositions are sufficiently viscous, so that they adhere to the fruit or vegetable until the spreading, but are easily supplied, eg, by means of a disposable sprinkler, either aerosol or pump activated with the finger. The levels and identities of the ingredients are adjusted to provide products having the desired viscosities as set forth herein, e.g., more than about 2, preferably more than about 5, more preferably more than about 10 centipoise when they are at rest, and less than about 150, preferably less than about 100, more preferably less than about 50 centipoise under thinning of 1000 sec- 1. The thinning ability of the preferred compositions containing mixtures of sodium and potassium cations is important to promote easy delivery, especially when the compositions are sprayed, while maintaining the ability to peel, stick and run off after being applied to the agricultural product.

The pH is preferably not greater than about 12.5, and especially does not contain large amounts of pH regulator at higher pHs for safety of consumption, especially when the compositions are sprayed.

Nonionic Surfactant The nonionic surfactant is preferably selected from materials known in the art, such as alkylene oxide (ethylene oxide and / or propylene oxide) alcohol adduct or aliphatic acid C? O-18, aliphatic alcohol adducts C? -18 glucose (alkyl polyglucoside). The ideally selected nonionic nonionic surfactant ideally has a hydrophilic-lipophilic (HLB) balance greater than about 10, and a point of integrity greater than about 35 ° C in the composition. The Code of Federal Regulations of the United States (CFR) specifically describes an adduct of ethylene oxide / propylene oxide of C12-18 aliphatic alcohol of molecular weight of approximately 800. Said material is available as PLURAFAC RA-10 (BASF). In the basic compositions containing soap, the functions of alkoxylated alcohol primarily as a dispersant for any soap rennet that can form ree during the cleaning operation. In addition, it is recognized that the selection of non-ionics that do not contain hydrogen can reduce the ability of microbial growth in dilute surfactant compositions.

Graeae and / or elacee acid of the mole The presently preferred acid compositions are formulated using an unsaturated fatty acid; Oleic acid is preferred and convenient for use. However, the particular oleic acid which is selected should preferably be less polyinaturated, e.g., contain less than about 10%, preferably less than about 7%, most preferably less than about 5%, minor components of poly-saturated acid, and commonly has an iodine (IV) value of from about 70 to about 100, preferably from about 83 to about 95, more preferably from about 85 to about 90. The polyunsaturated acids are not preferred in the preend, The problem of odor, however, is mainly due to aesthetic considerations since these acids are effective in cleaning. The amount of polyunsaturated fatty acids with menoe of about 8%, preferably 0%. The amount of polyunsaturated fatty acids with more than about two double bonds should be less than about 1%, preferably 0%. Saturated fatty acids are unacceptable because they have limited solubility for longer chain length materials (> Ci2), or have an unacceptable odor (Cio). For example, stearic and / or tallow fatty acid soaps, including potassium soap, do not have sufficient solubility at room temperature, where the individual consumers do most of the cleaning of agricultural product, to formulate including compositions containing the minimum of approximately 0.1% soap required for acceptable cleaning. Other specific surface-active surfactant surfactants would need to solubilize this and saturated fatty acids. Oleic acid pamolyn 100 FGK is a good example of a suitable commercial fatty acid.

Phosphoric acid Phosphoric acid is an extremely desirable component for improving the removal of, eg, wax in apples. The advantage is not solely due to pH since the improvement is observed at any pH. V.gr., as described below, when the pH varies from about 11 to about 12, the results are monitored when the neutralized orthophosphoric acid is present. The result is also not due to any capacity of the neutralized phosphoric acid to act as a builder to inhibit the problems associated with water hardness, since the results are improved when the compositions are emitted with all their force by direct application in water. the surface zeroea. It is remarkable that neutralized ortho-orthophoric acid provides such a great benefit. The advantage is especially noticeable when the compositions are made with all their force, eg, by sprinkling the composition directly on the surface of the agricultural product.

Polyethylene glycol The water soluble polyethylene glycol (PEG) polymer used herein is the known article of commerce and is available under a variety of trade names, of which CARBOWAX (Union Carbide Corporation) is an example. PEG's in the average molecular weight range from about 200 to about 20,000 can be used herein, and the PEG as CARBOWAX in the average molecular weight varies at least from about 200, typically from 300 to about 9,500, is convenient and preferred . As discussed above, the compositions herein will comprise at least about 0.05%, by weight, of the PEG and will typically comprise from about 0.1% to about 10%, by weight, of PEG. The amounts used, the amount of oleate or other fatty acid in the composition, the desired viscosity of the composition and similar factors within the discretion of the formulator may vary with the molecular weight of the PEG. The following Table I illustrates the variation in viscosity that can be effected using various PEG levels and varying the PEG molecule molecules in a liquid composition (Control) comprising 3% potassium oleate. Table I also illustrates the effect of the benzoate of eodium (Bz) on the viecoeidad.

TABLE I Viscosity (cP * as done) Viscosity (cP * as done) Composition 22 * C or ^ C Control (ein PEG) 7 110 Control + 0.674% Bz 23 1000 Control + 0.118% Bz 7 159 Control + 0.1% PEG 400 5 36 Control + 0.5% PEG 400 2 17 Control + 0.1% PEG 8000 5 23 Control + 0.5% PEG 8000 8 4 * The accuracy in centipoiee is measured by a Brookfield LVTD # 2, 60 rpm at the designated temperature. Typically, preferred compositions herein having improved tactile printing will comprise oleate: PEG weight ratios on the scale from about 1: 2 to about 30: 1, preferably from about 1: 1 to about 15: 1. .

I Tactile Precision The compositions in the pre-tense containing the polyethylene glycol are characterized not only by their cleanliness performance and excellent foaming / rinsing properties, but also by their improved viscosity and odor properties.

"Improved" approach. While also as described above, the viscosity of the composite in the pre-eector is easily and quantitatively demonstrated by the conventional measurement technique, the improved feel of the components that contact the user's hands with a qualitative tactile impure. However, this improvement, "not slippery", "not soapy" improved in skin feel can be demonstrated by rubbing the test (containing PEG) and control (ein PEG) compositions on the hands or forearms of voluntary levelers. Even in such rudimentary tests, the levelers can easily distinguish improved tactile printing from compositions made in accordance with this invention.

Optional co-active agents Optionally, anionic surfactant agent may be employed as permitted by the Code of Federal Regulations of the United States, title 21, section 173.315. Twelve-benzene sulfonate saltse are preferred, typically at levels up to 0.2%. Also described in the CFR are ethylene esters and / or ethylene / propylene oxide adducts of aliphatic alcohols, dioctyl sulfosuccinate and 2-ethylhexyl sulfate.

Sequestrant / detergency agent The organic polycarboxylic acid, or salt thereof, eg, citric acid, or sodium and / or potassium citrate, and / or ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid, or eiode and / or potassium ethylenediaminetetraacetate, with articles Conventional trade and eon GCCS. Other organic polycarboxylic acids can also be passed, especially those which are GCCs, such as tartaric, malic acids, etc. When formulating the basic formulation it is preferred to use the potassium salt compared to the sodium salt, to provide ease of formulability. The foefatoe complexes can also be used, but they are usually avoided because of the regulation of regulation.

Preservative The formulation of the present compositions at high pH reduces the tendency of biological growth of contaminants, such as bacteria, fungus or mohoe. At neutral pH, eecurity is required in the preeervative to assure the lack of biological growth through contamination in manufacturing or in the field. Conventional food-grade condoms such as ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid and / or saltse of the mole, at a level of from about 0.01% to about 0.2% of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid, or the euse and / or potassium saltse, can be used although in general the compositions of basic pH in the present do not need a condom.

Antioxidants The use of commercial oleic acid, or salts of oleate, can be complicated by the deerrollo of rnaloe smells and / or yellowish coloration of the compositions in which they appear. These undesirable properties are believed to be caused by complex collateral reactions initiated by the oxygen reaction mainly with polyunsaturated components of the stored fatty acid, this results can be avoided, or reducing, avoiding contact with air, or controlling the quality of the stored fatty acid so that the amount and type of polyunsaturated ee reduces as previously described, and / or by the addition of antioxidant. It has been found that the addition of tocopherol (e.g., vitamin E, or tocopherol acetate) in alkaline formulations is advantageous, since they do not degrade or impart a strong color. These inhibit the development of maloecolloid during extended periods so that the need to resist to cover it is reduced, or eliminated, particularly for high quality stored oleic acid, as described above. The use of butylate phenols, such as BHT and BHA, is also useful, but the amount should be limited to avoid imparting colors to the compositions. Other food grade antioxidants such as vitamin C and eulites, are convenient to avoid the deterioration of the compositions due to the action of oxygen, but care must be taken since vitamin C can suffer color degradation and sulfites can cause other problems . Sulfitoe have also been the target of potential health concerns.

Fluid vehicle The main proportion, eg, more than about two thirds, (typically, 80-98%, by weight) of the compositions in the preend comprises water as the lubricating vehicle for the ingredient. As noted in the examples below, water-ethanol can also be employed and is especially preferred when formulating the basic pH compositions herein. The level of ethanol should preferably not exceed 2% in the solution used to clean the agricultural product, to avoid an alcoholic smell, especially when sprayed by spraying. They can also use other compatible, water soluble and low molecular weight substances such as glycerol. The compositions in the preferred embodiment are placed in a package comprising either an aerosol container or a non-aerosol spraying device "spray means". Said means of spraying is any means that is activated manually, preferably "trigger type", to produce a spray of liquid drops as is known in the art. Typical spraying means are described in the U.S. Patents. Nos .: 4,082,223, Noeawa, issued on April 4, 1978; 4,161,288, McKinney, issued July 17, 1979; 4,558,821, Tada et otroe, issued December 17, 1985; 4,434,917, Saito et al., Issued March 6, 1984; and 4,819,835, Taeaki, issued April 11, 1989; All patents are incorporated herein by reference. The spray bottle, or the container may be any of the commonly used to contain detergent and surface cleaning detergents. Example of bottles are those in the patent designs of E.U.A. Nos .: 244,991, Weekman et al., Issued July 12, 1977; and 275, 078, Waeeergord et al., issued August 14, 1984, said patents being hereby incorporated by reference. The spray means also includes those which incorporate a compatible propellant gas into the liquid and which foam even detergent compositions having a viscosity of less than about 15 cps. The device may also be one that can be adjusted to either a liquid or foam spray. The precursor asperioning means are typically those which act with a diecrete amount of the composition itself, typically by means of a pill which extends the composition and extrudes the composition through a nozzle to create a fine aepereion of liquid. Preferred items include the compositions in the item that are suitable for use in the procedures described in the kit, in a package that can provide a spray. This is surprising in view of the clear advantages of such products for use by individual consumers. The typical use involves treating individual items of agricultural products, which would make the preparation of a "bath" useless. In a preferred process for using the products described in the foregoing, and especially those formulated for full use, the product is sprayed on the food product by cleaning, rubbing, rinsing and / or wiping with a cloth with a cloth. Clean material suitable as a cloth, a sponge, a paper towel, etc. Surprisingly, the compositions and procedures described herein can provide effective disinfection / improvement. In order to provide good elimination of microorganisms, especially bacteria, high concentrations and / or long exposure times should be used. Commonly, the products should be used with full force and should be left on the agricultural product for at least about one minute, preferably at least about five minutes, and, for some microorganisms, may need to be incubated for ten minutes. The long exposure times (ie, the time the bacteria is in contact with the product) give better antimicrobial benefits. The importance of time depends on the pH of the product and the concentration of the formula. At high pH (>; 11.5) and high concentrations, the antibacterial efficacy is achieved quickly. At low pH values (pH <11) and lower formula concentrations, a longer exposure period is needed to achieve the same efficiency. In general, higher pHe are also better. This factor is important for the functioning of the product in the Gram negative bacterium, e.g., eecherichia coli and pseudomonae species. The higher pH of the product produces a quicker and more complete elimination. The opposite is true for the gram-positive bacterium Gram, eg, etaphylococue aureue. The operation is the same for, or slightly better, as the Ph decreases from 11.5 to 9.5. However, this is only true when the formula contains oleic acid. As stated above, higher formula concentrations (when made ietly of pH) improve the antimicrobial efficacy of the product. The presence of oleic acid is the key factor for functioning on Gram positive microorganisms such as S. aureus, while the pH is probably a major factor for Gram negative bacteria, e.g., E. coli and pseudomonas species. Packing the products in a container with instruction in terms of time and action control to avoid dilution in order to provide disinfection / sanitation will help the individual consumer by providing information on the appropriate use in order to remove / eliminate microorganisms. A special advantage of the product is that it can be used for this purpose at a time in the production process of the food in which recontamination is reduced. All parts, percentages and relationships herein are "by weight" unless otherwise stated. Everything that is valued from numbers are approximate unless stated otherwise. The following examples illustrate the compositions and methods of this invention, but are not inte to limit the same. The basic liquid compositions exemplified herein can be prepared at pH 9.5-12.5 by dissolving the ingredients in water or water-ethanol using conventional mixing equipment. In a convenient manner, water is placed in a mixing vessel. Potassium hydroxide is added with stirring, any glycerin (processing aid), any citric acid, any bicarbonate and any ethanol in the named sequence. Oleic acid is added with thinning and stirring is continued. Then the PEG is added (which can conveniently be disperear in water). The optional perfume ingredients can be added at any time after the oleic acid has dissolved in the mixture.

EXAMPLE 1 Ingredient A B C D E F KOH .91 1.4 1.72 1.35 1.93 2.25 Crystalline acid .54 .55 .56 .54 .57 .57 Baking soda . 55 1. 5 2.0 .55 1.5 2.0 Sodium PEG 3350 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 Ethanol 2 2 2 2 2 2 Oleic acid 0 0 0 2.65 2.65 2.65 Oil of 0.03 0.03 0.03 0.03 0.03 0.03 to red Water DI rest rest rest rest rest Total 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 Net pH 11.5 11.5 11.5 11.5 11.5 11.5 P age% 11.1 17.1 62.4 36 47.7 70. 3 removal of ce Gardner wax removal determination: A Gardner cleaning machine has been shown to stimulate hand washing and removal of wax on apples using the test products. The device was established and operated in accordance with the protocol described below. TEST METHOD FOR EXAMPLE 1 Test wax: AP 40 lacquer, typical of ueadae waxes for revealing apples. Covered clean glass coupons (7.6 x 12.7 cm) have -30 mg of wet lacquer applied by asperion with an airbrush to achieve a uniform distribution on the coupon. The cuponee are then dried or cured by placing them in an oven at 75 ° C for 1 hour and weighed to determine the amount of wax applied. The coupons are then refrigerated at 4.4 ° C for one hour to harden the lacquer. Then the plate is placed on a Gardner machine. In the cleaning test a fine pore sponge is used and it is weighed before it is wetted with the cleaning solution. The eeponja eeponja with the hand 3 vecee and ee placed on a scale the rest of the predetermined amount of the product to be used in the test and adds to the sponge by a test tube. For this test, add 2.5 grams of the test cleaner product. The prepared sponge is placed in the Gardner machine and the cleaning speed is set to 2 on the speed scale, with 10 repetitions of milling. After washing with Gardner, the cuponee is removed and rinsed in soft water at 21.1 ° C at -200 ml / sec. The glass plates are left to dry horizontally and weighed to determine the removal of the wax. The test is repeated 5 times with each product; and high and low readings are discarded; and the remaining 3 readings are p romed for the determination of the removal rate. Note: The examples C and F show the markedly improved wax removal operation in view of the comparative examples A, B and D, E respectively. Surprisingly, C is better than D despite the lack of surfactants.

EXAMPLE 2 Ingredient G H I Eodium bicarbonate 0.55 2.0 2.0 Ethanol 10 10 3 Glycerin 2 2 2 Oleic acid .44 .44 .44 KOH .95 .95 .95 Citric acid .52 .52 .52 Grapefruit oil 0.03 0.03 0.03 Water DI reeto reeto reeto Total 100 100 100 PH 11 10.5 10.5 % Removed wax 40 82 82 Ingredient Eodium bicarbonate, 55 Ethanol 2 0 Glycerin 2 0 Oleic acid 2,643 2,643 KOH 1.3 1.5 Citric acid .52 .52 PEG-3350 0 .5 Grapefruit oil 0.03 0.03 Water DI reeto reeto Total 100 100 pH 11.5 11.5 % Wax removed 51 85 Ingredient L M Bicarbonate of eodium .55 2 Ethanol 2 2 Glycerin 2 0 Oleic acid 2,643 2,643 KOH 1.3 2.12 Citric acid .52 .52 PEG-3350 0 .5 Grapefruit oil 0.03 0.03 Water DI reeto reeto Total 100 100 pH 11.5 11.5% Wax removed 43 76 The lacquer removal test is a gravimetric method that is carried out under controlled laboratory conditions in which the lacquer is applied to glass flasks, cured and washed with the product to determine the percentage of removal.

TEST METHOD FOR EXAMPLE 2 Laboratory condition: Laboratory temperature approximately 21 ° C. Relative humidity approximately 30% +/- 5% ueando dehumidifier. (Humidity is a factor that can influence the reproducibility of the test, therefore, it remains constant during the test.) Preparation of the glass surface Five matracee are used for each end in any given test. They are printed with IDe boiling round bottom matracee of 250 ml, which approximates the diameter of a medium to large apple. The flasks are always handled with gloves free of residue to avoid contamination. The matrasses are washed in an automatic dishwasher in the wash cycle and normal time with hot drying. The flasks are then wetted in 5% H2SO4 for 3.5 hours then rinsed with distilled water for 10 seconds. The rinse is repeated twice. (This treatment is used to re-treat matracee to an original caei stage, since the glass surface has been identified as a factor that influences the reproducibility in this method.) The flasks are placed in a dry rack in the temperature / humidity laboratory. controlled (CT / RH), covered with a towel layer (to avoid contamination with dust), and left to dry overnight.

Application of the lacquer: In the CT / RH laboratory the dry flasks are covered. (Wi). Applying half a towel folded in fourth, wet an area of the towel by placing over the mouth of the container of lacquer and turning twice. A fresh towel is used after coating 5 to 7 matracee. Using the neck of the flask as a "handle", clean the voluminous area of the flask on the towel-coated area, turn the flask to have a uniform coating. Note: Immediately after applying the coating, the weight of the wax applied should be approximately 100 mg. This will dry to approximately 20-30 mg of wax, the amount commonly applied to real apples. The flask is then placed on a drying rack.

Curing: the flasks are placed in an airtight laboratory oven at 75 ° C for 60 minutes. After 60 minutes, the matracee is removed from the oven and left to equilibrate on the rack in the CT / RH laboratory for 1 hour.

Wash treatment / frosted flasks: Loe matracee ee weigh (W2) to determine the amount of lacquer in each flask and place in a refrigerator (~ 2 ° C) for one hour. The running soft water (for rinsing) is set at a flow rate of 3L / min and the temperature at 18 ° C. The flasks are individually removed from the refrigerator to be washed.Each flask is washed by spraying the voluminous part with 2 streams (two full pressures of the trigger of a conventional sprayer) of test product, with the neck of the flask as a "handle." The flask is carved for 10 seconds with firm and uniform pressure and rotation.All the surfaces are waxed and cut. The head is flushed and rinsed under running water for 5 minutes.The flask is left to dry overnight.

Data calculation: Dry flasks are weighed (W3). The percentage of removal for each flask is calculated first by subtracting the covered weight from the flask (Wi) from the weight of the waxed flask (W2). (This is the amount of wax applied, Ao.) Then subtract the covered weight (Wi) from the weight of the flask after washing (W3). (This is the amount of wax that remains after washing, Aw.) Finally, the equation below is used to calculate the percentage of wax removed. Ao = 2 - Wi Aw = W3 - Wi% wax removed = (1 - Aw / Ao) x 100 The average is calculated for each test tip. Note: Examples H, I, K and M show a marked improvement in the wax removal operation in view of the corresponding comparative examples J.G and L.

EXAMPLE 3 Ingredient N 0 P Q NaHC03 0.5 1.88 1.47 1.82 K2CO3 10 5.9 2.4 5.7 Citric acid 0.49 0.53 .56 .51 KOH 0.82 1.62 1.89 1.57 ETOH 1.8 1.88 1.96 1.82 Oleic acid 0 0 2.60 0 C11E9 0 0 0 3.6 PEG-3350 0.5 0.5 .49 .46 Grapefruit oil 0.02 .03 .03 .03 Water DI rest rest rest rest Total 100 100 100 100 pH 12 11.8 11.64 11.7

Claims (19)

NOVELTY OF THE INVENTION CLAIMS

1. - A method for cleaning agricultural product comprising the step of contacting surfaces of said agricultural product with an aqueous cleaning solution comprising pH regulator of basic carbonate in an amount effective to provide the removal of wax materiale, wherein the level of pH regulator provides from about 1% to about 10% by weight of the composition as C? 32 ~, and having a basic pH of more than about 9.5.

2. The method according to claim 1, further characterized in that said aqueous cleaning solution comprises: (a) basic toxicologically acceptable carbonate pH regulator at a level to provide from about 1% to about 10% by weight as the ion carbonate; (b) optionally, from about 0.01% to about 15% of Cß-Ciß fatty acid; (c) optionally, from about 0.1% to about 4% by weight of non-ionic surface active agent; (d) optionally, from about 0.1% to about 4% in weight of organic polycarboxylic acid; (e) optionally, up to about 0.2% by weight of low anionic surfactant; (f) optionally, a toxicologically acceptable basic carbonate and pH regulator; (g) optionally, toxicologically acceptable preservative; (h) optionally, from about 0.05% to about 10% foephoric acid; (i) the product comprises an aqueous vehicle selected from water and, optionally, from a toxicologically acceptable organic solvent of low molecular weight, wherein said aqueous solution has a pH of more than about 9.5.

3. A composition for cleaning fruits and vegetables according to claim 1, comprising: (a) pH regulator of toxicologically acceptable basic carbonate at a level to provide from about 1.25% to about 3.6% by weight as carbonate ion; (b) optionally from about 0.01% to about 15% of Cß-Ciß fatty acid; (c) optionally, from about 0.1% to about 4% by weight of nonionic surfactant; (d) optionally, from about 0.1% to about 4% by weight of organic polycarboxylic acid; (e) optionally, up to about 0.2% by weight of stable base anionic surfactant; (f) optionally, a basic pH regulator without toxicologically acceptable carbonate; (g) optionally, toxicologically acceptable preservative; (h) optionally, from about 0.05% to about 10% phosphoric acid; (i) the remainder comprises an aqueous vehicle selected from water and, optionally, a toxicologically acceptable organic solvent of low molecular weight, wherein said aqueous solution has a pH of more than about 9.5.

4. A composition according to claim 3 comprising toxicologically acceptable basic carbonate pH regulator at a level to provide from about 1.25% to about 3.6% by weight as carbonate ion, wherein the source of said carbonate ion it is selected from the group consisting of eodium bicarbonate, eodium carbonate, potassium bicarbonate and potassium carbonate, and wherein said composition has a pH of about 11.5 to about 12.5.

5. A composition according to claim 4 comprising about 2% by weight of eodium bicarbonate.

6. A composition according to claim 3 with improved tactile printing for fruits and vegetables, comprising: (a) toxicologically acceptable basic carbonate pH regulator at a level to provide from about 1.25% to about 3.6% by weight as carbonate ion; (b) at least about 0.75%, by weight, of a C12-C18 fatty acid or salt thereof; (c) at least about 0.05%, by weight, of polyethylene glycol having a molecular weight of about 200, or more; (d) a fluid vehicle of water or water-ethanol, said composition having a basic pH.

7. - A composition according to claim 6, characterized in that the component 8a) salt or oleic acid.

8. A composition according to claim 6, further characterized in that component (b) has a molecular weight in the range of about 300 to about 9,500.

9. A composition according to claim 3, characterized in that the pH of the composition is in the range of approximately 11.5 to approximately 12.3.

10. A composition according to claim 3 further comprising oil derived from grapefruit.

11. The composition according to claim 3, further characterized in that said composition comprises from about 0.001% to about 0.05% of an antioxidant.

12. A composition according to claim 3 suitable for cleaning agricultural products, even when the composition is completely removed from said agricultural product, comprising only GCCS ingredients.

13. An anhydrous concentrate for preparing the composition according to claim 3.

14. A composition that can be applied by spraying according to claim 3 having a viscosity less than about 100 centipoise under thinning of more than about 1000 sec-'1.

15. A composition that can be applied by spraying according to claim 14 having a viscosity of less than about 50 centipoise.

16. An article comprising a sprinkler container, suitable for use by an individual to clean agricultural product, containing a cleaning solution that complies with the claim 15.

17. The article according to the claim 16, further characterized in that said cleaning solution has a pH of about 11.5 to about 12.5.

18. A composition for cleaning fruits and vegetables comprising: (a) pH regulator of basic toxicologically acceptable carbonate at a level to provide from about 1.25% to about 3.6%, by weight as carbonate ion; (b) optionally, from about 0.01% to about 15% of Cs-Ciß fatty acid; (c) optionally, from about 0.1% to about 4% by weight of nonionic surfactant; (d) optionally, from about 0.1% to about 4% by weight of citric acid; (e) optionally, up to about 0.2% by weight of stable base anionic surfactant; (f) optionally, a basic pH regulator and additional stable bake carbonate; (g) optionally, toxicologically acceptable preservative; (h) optionally from about 0.05% to about 10% phosphoric acid; (i) the remainder comprises an aqueous vehicle selected from water and, optionally, water-ethanol; wherein said composition has a pH of greater than about 10.5.

19. The composition according to claim 18, further characterized in that the component (a) is pH regulator of basic toxicologically acceptable carbonate at a level to provide approximately 1.43% by weight as carbonate ion, where the source of said Carbonate ion is selected from the group consisting of sodium bicarbonate, sodium carbonate, potassium bicarbonate and potassium carbonate; and wherein said composition has a pH of about 11.5 to about 12.5.