DEFINITION
Water is a key resource for many applications in the food manufacturing process, generally used as primary production, cleaning and sanitation, processing operations, and food ingredients.
Processing operations can include: washing, brining, transport of products, dissolving ingredients, treatment of product (pasteurization or sterilization), ice manufacturing, steam generation, cooling process. [1]
Sources of water in industries are essentially: potable source (used generally in direct contact with food) and well, for other uses.
When water is used as a component of food or as an ingredient, it must be free from undesirable color, odor, taste, and impurities that can be harmful.
AN Emerging Need: THE REUSE OF WATER
In recent years, the global concern over water scarcity has become a central issue in international discussions. With growing populations, the impacts of climate change, and increasing demands from agriculture, industry, and domestic use, the strain on freshwater resources has intensified. On World Water Day, March 23, 2023, the UN highlighted alarming data about global water scarcity, emphasizing the urgency of the issue.
In this context, water reuse—specifically the use of treated wastewater—has emerged as a key strategy for preserving water resources. While water reuse is not a new concept and has been practiced for centuries, with examples dating back to Ancient Greece, where sewage was disposed of and used for irrigation, the increasing global demand for water has made planned water reuse a critical and timely topic.
Treated sewage, in particular, plays a vital role in the sustainable management of water resources, offering an alternative to the use of freshwater for agricultural and irrigation purposes. By freeing up high-quality water sources for public supply and other priority uses, sewage reuse helps conserve resources and adds an economic dimension to water management. This practice reduces the demand on natural water sources by substituting lower-quality water (often post-treated effluents) for uses that do not require potable water quality.Currently, many countries are actively discussing and implementing water reuse, especially in situations where water quality requirements are less stringent. For instance, treated wastewater can be used to meet agricultural, industrial, or recreational needs, provided it meets the appropriate quality standards for the specific application [3].
Internal reuse of water for industrial purposes is also on the rise. In these cases, water quality standards are typically determined by the intended use and specifications of the equipment manufacturers.
However, despite its potential, the cost of implementing water reuse systems and the traditionally lower costs of conventional water resources for irrigation remain significant barriers to widespread adoption. It is crucial to continue advocating for water reuse through clear guidelines and studies that define the exact quality requirements for water depending on its intended use—whether for agriculture, industry, or recreation.”
