WEST LIBERTY, Iowa – West Liberty Foods, LLC recently completed installation of a Hiperbaric High Pressure Pasteurization System at its Mount Pleasant, Iowa facility, the company announced Jan. 24.

The company plans to install a similar system at its Tremonton, Utah plant in February. An 8,400 square foot expansion will be added to accommodate the system.

"With the addition of the high pressure pasteurization to our facilities it will enable us to enhance the offerings to our customers," said Ed Garrett, president and CEO for West Liberty Foods. "Customer focus is one of our main priorities and through this system we are able to offer a clean label product without compromising ingredients, taste or food safety."

HPP uses water under very high hydrostatic pressure that destroys harmful food bacteria while maintaining flavor, nutrients and nutritional value, according to the company. The non-thermal process also enhances food safety and provides a longer shelf life for products while reducing dependence on preservatives.

"Installation of the high pressure pasteurization process at West Liberty Foods is yet another innovative use of technology that allows us to deliver on our commitment to the production of food safe products that protect our customer's brands," said Gerald Lessard, vice president and COO of the company.

West Liberty Foods manufactures sliced deli meats and individually quick frozen products for foodservice and retail customers.