How do you remove pesticides from fruits and vegetables?
Imagine being able to remove all pesticides from your favorite fruits and vegetables.
And not just that — also bacteria, viruses, and hormones from meat, fish, and seafood.
And now imagine that it’s quick and easy...
Sounds almost too good to be true, right?
With a little help from water electrolysis, which produces completely natural and incredibly effective disinfectants, this is absolutely possible.
By the end of this text, we’ll find out which products use this technology. Recently, it has become possible to have this technology at home — not just in industrial facilities...
But let’s start with your first question.
What is electrolysis?
Electrolysis of water involves passing an electric current through water (which contains a certain amount of minerals) to trigger chemical reactions.
Electrolysis is carried out using titanium electrodes (anode and cathode). At the electrodes, water is split into hydronium ions (H⁺) and hydroxide ions (OH⁻).
Continuation of chemical reactions through electrolysis – formation of hypochlorous acid
Our tap water naturally contains chlorides, and when we use tap water, chlorine (Cl₂) is also present.
Due to this composition of the water, electrolysis leads to new chemical reactions with these elements and enables the formation of hypochlorous acid (HOCl).
Although the name sounds like a strong acid, hypochlorous acid is actually mild and safe to use – more like water than a true acid. It can be used without gloves, masks, or protective clothing.
What is HOCl and how does it work?
Hypochlorous acid (HOCl) is a natural disinfectant that changes the game. It is produced when an aqueous solution reacts with an element that is found all around us – chlorine.
Unlike conventional bleach, which also contains chlorine, HOCl is much milder and safer to use with food.
A little chemistry lesson.
Electrolysis – When water contains chlorine (Cl₂) (tap water)
During electrolysis, chlorine is broken down into chloride (Cl⁻) and hypochlorite ions (ClO⁻). The OH⁻ ions then react with the ClO⁻ ions to form hypochlorous acid (HClO).
Electrolysis – When water contains no chlorine (filtered water)
Electrolysis process:
When such water, which contains dissolved chlorides, undergoes electrolysis, oxidation of chloride ions (Cl⁻) from the salt occurs at the anode, releasing chlorine (Cl₂):
2Cl⁻ → Cl₂ + 2e⁻
The released chlorine then reacts with water and forms hypochlorous acid (HOCl):
Cl₂ + H₂O → HOCl + HCl
Formation of HOCl:
The hypochlorous acid formed in this way acts as an effective disinfectant that can kill microorganisms by destroying their cell walls and vital functions.
The effectiveness of electrolysis lies in the combination of hypochlorous acid and hydroxide ions (OH⁻) in the solution.
It offers an extremely effective, safe, and completely natural method for disinfection and cleaning — enabling not only the killing of microorganisms but also the deactivation of pesticides and herbicides on treated surfaces.
Hypochlorous acid compared to other disinfectants
When it comes to the cleanliness of our homes and food, we all want the most effective solution.
But not every disinfectant is the same!
Some leave harmful chemicals behind or are not effective against all types of microorganisms and contaminants.
In this section, we compare the product of electrolysis — hypochlorous acid (HOCl) — with some common disinfectants to highlight its unique advantages.
Bleach (sodium hypochlorite)
Effectiveness: Highly effective against a wide range of microorganisms, including bacteria and viruses.
Reaction speed: Like HOCl, bleach can kill microorganisms within minutes.
Safety: Can cause skin, eye, and respiratory irritation; leaves a strong odor.
Application: Effective for disinfecting large areas; not recommended for use on food as chemical residues may remain.
Alcohol (ethanol, isopropanol)
Effectiveness: Very effective against many bacteria and viruses, but may be less effective against certain types of viruses.
Reaction speed: Alcohols generally require a longer contact time, typically about 30 seconds to several minutes.
Safety: Evaporates quickly, reducing the risk of long-term exposure, but flammability poses a hazard.
Application: Widely used for disinfecting hands and small surfaces; not suitable for use on food.
Hydrogen peroxide
Effectiveness:
Effective against bacteria, viruses, and fungi; however, it may be less effective against certain microorganisms.
Reaction speed:
Hydrogen peroxide works within a few minutes but requires a longer contact time compared to HOCl or hydroxyl radicals to achieve maximum effectiveness.
Safety:
Can cause skin and eye irritation at higher concentrations.
Application:
Used for disinfecting surfaces and medical instruments; dilution is necessary for safe use.
Hypochlorous Acid (HOCl)
Effectiveness:
Extremely effective against a wide range of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
Reaction speed:
HOCl acts almost instantly on microorganisms. It kills bacteria, viruses, and fungi within seconds to a few minutes — depending on concentration.
Safety:
HOCl is safe to use with food and people, as it breaks down quickly without leaving toxic residues. Hydroxyl radicals are highly reactive but leave no long-term residues.
Application:
Ideal for disinfecting food, surfaces, and items frequently touched by children; leaves no harmful residues and does not affect the taste of food.
Combination of vinegar and baking soda
Effectiveness:
The combination of vinegar and baking soda can act as a mild disinfectant. Vinegar, a weak acid (acetic acid), can help remove some bacteria and viruses from surfaces. However, its disinfecting power is not comparable to stronger disinfectants like HOCl, alcohol, or hydrogen peroxide.
Reaction speed:
The mixture of vinegar and baking soda shows a quick reaction in the form of foam, which helps with mechanical cleaning. But as a disinfectant, it works more slowly — contact time usually needs to be several minutes, and its effectiveness against pathogens is limited.
Safety:
This combination is generally safe for household use and leaves no toxic residues. It may cause mild irritation if it comes into contact with skin or eyes but is much less aggressive than many commercial cleaners.
Application:
Frequently used as an inexpensive and eco-friendly cleaner for surfaces. It helps remove stains, grease, and odors but offers only limited disinfecting power. Not suitable for situations requiring high disinfection performance — such as medical environments or food processing.
Conclusion:
HOCl offers outstanding advantages in terms of safety and effectiveness.
Its ability to eliminate microorganisms quickly and efficiently — with minimal health and environmental risks — makes it the ideal choice for use in homes, medical facilities, the food industry, and all areas where disinfection is critical.
Use in various industries
Healthcare
- Disinfection of medical instruments and surfaces in hospitals and clinics
- Preventive disinfection in operating rooms and intensive care units
- Wound care – especially for the prevention and treatment of infections
Food Industry
- Disinfection of surfaces, tools, and equipment that come into contact with food
- Treatment of fruits and vegetables to remove pathogens and pesticides before packaging or storage
- Hygiene measures in the processing of meat, fish, and dairy products
Water Supply (Water Management)
- Treatment of drinking water to eliminate bacteria and viruses
- Cleaning and disinfection of swimming pools and wellness facilities
- Treatment of wastewater before discharge into the environment
Public and Commercial Spaces
- Disinfection in schools, kindergartens, gyms, and other public facilities
- Hygiene measures in hotels, restaurants, and other food service establishments
- Use in HVAC systems (heating, ventilation, air conditioning) to prevent the spread of pathogens through the air
Agriculture (Agricultural Sector)
- Disinfection of greenhouses, storage areas, and agricultural equipment
- Treatment of plants and soil to combat diseases and pests
- Hygienic cleaning of transport vehicles for live animals
Veterinary Medicine
- Disinfection of animal shelters and stables
- Prevention and treatment of infections in animals
- Hygienic cleaning of equipment and instruments in veterinary clinics
Electrolysis – now available in your own home
After exploring the wonders that hypochlorous acid (HOCl) can work in food disinfection, it's time to introduce how you can easily and safely produce HOCl at home – thanks to a revolutionary device: Freshilon.
How does the device work?
The device uses advanced electrolysis technology that transforms ordinary water and salt into a powerful disinfectant based on hypochlorous acid (HOCl). Equipped with titanium electrodes, it triggers the necessary chemical reactions through electric current to produce this strong disinfectant.
The process is fully automated – your only task is to add water and press a button. Within just a few minutes, a safe and effective disinfectant is ready to use.
Design and ease of use
Designed with simplicity and functionality in mind, the device fits perfectly into any kitchen environment. Its compact and modern form not only saves space but also adds a visual appeal to your kitchen countertop. Thanks to the clearly labeled control panel and intuitive indicators, the device is extremely user-friendly – ideal even for people with no technical background.
Sicherheit und Wirksamkeit
Die Sicherheit deiner Familie steht für uns an erster Stelle. Das Gerät wurde so konzipiert, dass es im häuslichen Umfeld sicher verwendet werden kann – ganz ohne Risiko durch giftige Chemikalien. Das erzeugte HOCl ist vollkommen unbedenklich im direkten Kontakt mit Lebensmitteln und somit ideal zur Desinfektion von Obst, Gemüse, Fleisch und Meeresfrüchten geeignet. Darüber hinaus passt das Gerät die Konzentration des Desinfektionsmittels automatisch an und garantiert so stets eine optimale Stärke für maximale Wirksamkeit.
Why choose this device?
Choosing this device is not just about selecting a disinfectant — it’s about choosing a healthier lifestyle. This device allows you to minimize exposure to harmful substances while preserving the natural freshness and nutritional value of your food. With this device, you have control over the cleanliness and health of your family!
Fun Fact – Hypochlorous acid in our body
Hypochlorous Acid (HOCl) – A Fascinating Natural Defense in Our Body
Hypochlorous acid (HOCl) plays a vital and fascinating role in the human body, particularly in the immune response. Our bodies naturally produce HOCl as part of the defense mechanism against pathogens. Here’s how it works – and why it’s so important:
Production of HOCl in the Human Body
Neutrophils:
HOCl is produced by white blood cells called neutrophils. These are key players in the immune system, responsible for combating infections and foreign invaders.
Myeloperoxidase Process:
When neutrophils engulf bacteria or viruses through phagocytosis, they activate the enzyme myeloperoxidase. This enzyme catalyzes a reaction between hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂), which is also produced by neutrophils, and chloride ions (Cl⁻) from the blood plasma — resulting in the production of HOCl.
Function of HOCl in the Immune System
Antimicrobial Activity:
HOCl acts as a powerful antimicrobial agent. It oxidizes bacterial and viral components, destroys cell structures and essential functions, and thereby eliminates pathogens.
Infection Control:
HOCl effectively destroys a wide range of microorganisms — including bacteria, viruses, and fungi — making it a key weapon in the body’s defense arsenal.
Safety and Effectiveness
Selective Toxicity:
Although HOCl is highly reactive and potentially harmful, its production in the body is precisely regulated. Neutrophils control where HOCl is released, ensuring it acts only at the site of infection while sparing healthy tissue.
Rapid Action:
HOCl produced by neutrophils acts almost instantly, helping to contain infections at their source quickly and efficiently.
Interesting Fact
The discovery that our bodies produce HOCl as part of the natural immune response highlights the body’s incredible ability to harness complex biochemical processes for health protection. This insight inspired the medical and hygienic use of HOCl outside the body, utilizing its antimicrobial properties to develop safe, effective, and well-tolerated disinfectants.
Conclusion
Hypochlorous acid is not only useful as an external disinfectant — it’s also a crucial player in our body’s defense against disease. Understanding and utilizing its antimicrobial power — both internally and externally — offers great potential for improving our health and well-being.
Sources:
- Journal of Applied Electrochemistry and Chemical Engineering Journal offers insight into electrolysis mechanisms and their impact on water treatment.
- Journal of Applied Electrochemistry and Water Research.
- Journal of Hospital Infection.
- Journal of Applied Electrochemistry and Environmental Science & Technology, provides detailed insights into the electrolysis process and the efficacy of HOCl as a disinfectant.