Application for hop acids as anti-microbial agents
AssigneeS.S. Steiner, Inc.
InventorsRichard J.H. Wilson, Robert J. Smith, Gerhard Haas
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Abstract
The alkali metal salts form of β-acids dissolved in propylene glycol is used to control microbial growth in food products, process streams and other applications, including in cosmetic formulations.
Claims15
A process for the preparation of a solution of hop-derived β-acids suitable use in the prevention or restriction of bacterial growth and comprising the steps of:
- (a) heating a mixture of β-acids and propylene glycol:
- (b) simultaneously or sequentially adding a concentrated, aqueous solution of an alkali metal hydroxide to the heated mixture sufficient to obtain a homogeneous solution having a pH of at least about 9.0 (as measured after 3× dilution into water), and
- (c) cooling the resulting mixture.
A process for inhibiting bacterial growth comprising applying a solution containing the alkali metal salts of β-acids in propylene glycol to any solid or liquid medium or process stream whereby to prevent or retard growth of bacteria or other micro-organisms.
The formulation of a cosmetic or pharmaceutical cream or ointment in which a solution containing the alkali metal salts of β-acids in propylene glycol is added in sufficient amount intended to prevent or retard the growth of bacteria.
The formulation of any pharmaceutical preparation in which a solution containing the alkali metal salts of β-acids in propylene glycol is added in sufficient amount intended to prevent or retard the growth of bacteria.
A preparation of the alkali metal salts of hop-derived β-acids in propylene glycol in which the concentration of the β-acids exceeds 10 weight percent.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.