To continue with their commitment to public safety, Chipotle has aligned with RGF® Environmental Group Inc. to implement additional sanitizing protocols utilizing chemical-free patented technologies and products developed by RGF. RGF’s Reme Halo® in-duct air purification units and IMSB Ice Machine Sanitizers are being installed into all existing restaurants nationwide and all future locations that are being opened at the rate of one per day. To ensure safety throughout the supply chain, RGF is also working closely with Chipotle suppliers regarding treatment of entire plant facilities, as well as direct treatment of product surfaces and ingredients utilizing RGF’s chemical-free Food Surface Sanitation Tunnel.

RGF’s Reme Halo air purification unit and IMSB Ice Machine Sanitizer were tested for three months in multiple Chipotle locations. Impressive results that were independently verified and validated led to the decision to incorporate RGF technology into Chipotle’s entire customer safety strategy. 

The Reme Halo and IMSB Ice Machine Sanitizer employ RGF’s patented Photohydroionization™ (PHI), a chemical-free, natural, green, and environmentally friendly advanced oxidation technology that supports Chipotle’s mission of “food with integrity.” This unique technology utilizes broad-spectrum ultraviolet (UV) light rays in conjunction with a catalytic target to create safe, ionized hydro-peroxides (H₂0₂). Tested and validated by third-party independent testing labs and universities, PHI technology is proven to proactively reduce bacteria, mold, and viruses in the air and on surfaces by 99 percent while also reducing odors, smoke, and volatile organize compounds (VOCs). This broad spectrum of protection adds an additional level of security for restaurants from viruses like the Norovirus and bacteria such as E. Coli, Listeria monocytogenes, and Salmonella. In addition, PHI offers flu protection as it is able to kill an average of 99 percent of sneeze germs at three feet, which is a common way to transmit the flu virus from person to person.  

The Reme Halo saturates the air throughout the restaurant’s kitchen and dining areas, substantially reducing the risks of bacteria, viruses, mold, and VOCs while controlling odor. The IMSB Ice Machine Sanitizer prevents the spread of harmful bacteria to customers, patrons, and employees through ice. As a common source of Listeria monocytogenes, ice machine sanitation is an integral component of public safety.

RGF’s chemical-free Food Surface Sanitation Tunnel is a natural alternative to bathing food in chemicals to reduce microbial contamination and does not affect the taste or color of the product or ingredients. PHI’s UV combined with advanced oxidation has consistently outperformed traditional chemical sanitation technology in every field application including beef, chicken, pork, and fish as well as vegetables, grains, fruits, brine, marinades, water, and ice. It is a very effective and safe method of pathogen control.

"We look forward to growing our strategic alliance with a company totally dedicated to providing the best quality food in the safest environment," said Ron Fink, RGF president and CEO.

For more information, visit www.rgf.com.

Publication date: 2/6/2017

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