pasteurization

from WordNet (r) 3.0 (2006)

pasteurization
    n 1: partial sterilization of foods at a temperature that
         destroys harmful microorganisms without major changes in
         the chemistry of the food [syn: {pasteurization},
         {pasteurisation}]

from The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48

Pasteurization \Pas*teur`i*za"tion\, n.
   A process devised by Pasteur for preventing or checking
   fermentation in fluids, such as wines, milk, etc., by
   exposure to a temperature of 140[deg] F., thus destroying the
   vitality of the contained microorganisms.
   [1913 Webster]