Abstract: A method and apparatuses to extend the time interval between out-of-service, in-tank inspections while insuring structural integrity using a risk-based, Bayesian statistical approach comprised of a passing leak detection test, determining that the tank is not leaking, estimating a thickness of the tank floor to estimate a corrosion rate, and conducting a risk assessment using the result of the leak detection test, the corrosion rate and thickness of the tank floor, and statistical data of tank failures.

Abstract: High-moisture, high-pH, shelf-stable cheese spreads containing cheese, preferably a cheese having a pH of 5.4 or lower such as Swiss, Cheddar, American, mozarella, skim milk cheese, or cheese mixtures, water sufficient to provide a total moisture of from 51 to 58% and a pH of from 5.3 to 6.0 are preserved by adding sodium chloride, a phosphate salt, sodium citrate, and sodium lactate in sufficient amounts to maintain the composition free from the growth of Clostridium botulinum and the production of toxin by those organisms during room temperature storage for a period of at least 180 days, preferably 300 days. Some embodiments contain about 1 to 2% sodium citrate, about 1 to 2% sodium lactate, and a combined level of dibasic sodium phosphate and sodium chloride ranging between about 1.3 and 2.2%, and have a moisture content of 52 to 55%, and an overall pH of about 5.3 to 5.6.