What treatment method is used to kill pathogenic organisms not eliminated by earlier steps?

Disinfection is the treatment method specifically designed to kill pathogenic organisms that may not have been eliminated through previous sanitation steps. This process involves the application of chemical agents or physical methods to reduce the presence of pathogens to safe levels, thus ensuring that water or surfaces are safe for use. Disinfection is critical in maintaining hygiene in environments where pathogens can pose health risks, particularly in food handling and healthcare settings.

Boiling is an effective method to kill many bacteria and some viruses, but it may not address all types of pathogens, especially some spores that can withstand high temperatures. Filtration is a process that removes particulates and microorganisms but may not eliminate all pathogens unless specific types of filters, such as those with very fine pore sizes, are used. Flocculation is a method used primarily for removing suspended solids from liquids by inducing particles to agglomerate and settle, which is beneficial for water clarification but does not directly target pathogens. Therefore, disinfection remains the most comprehensive method for ensuring that any remaining pathogens are effectively neutralized.