At Five Star Chemicals, we know maintaining cleanliness and sanitation is essential for product quality and safety. With the introduction of our newest product – Saniclean PAA Pro – we’re here to explain all the added benefits of switching to this mulit-purpose sanitizer, cleaner and descaler (especially for StarXene-heads)! Saniclean PAA Pro offers ease of use, a range of applications and cost-savings for old-school and new-school brewers alike.

1. Activation and Preparation

Star-Xene:
• Requires activation with citric acid.
• Takes about 20 minutes to prepare.
• Users must manually mix StarXene and citric acid in specific ratios before it becomes effective.
• Dosing Range: From 4 oz StarXene + 8 oz citric acid to 16 oz StarXene + 8 oz citric acid per 31-gallon barrel (1 bbl).

Saniclean PAA Pro:
• Ready-to-use—no activation step required.
• Simple dilution into water is all that's needed for use.
• Dosing Range: 1.7 oz to 5.3 oz per 5 gallons of water.

Verdict: PAA Pro wins in ease of use with no prep time and no need for additional chemicals.

2. Cost Comparison

Star-Xene:
• $772.50 for 5 gallons = $154.50 per gallon.
• Citric acid (required for activation): $210.08 for 50 lbs = $4.20 per lb.
• Cost per 1 bbl dosage: Between $9.54 and $21.30, depending on the amount used.

Saniclean PAA Pro:
• $180 for 5 gallons = $36 per gallon.
• Cost per 1 bbl dosage: Ranges from $3.36 to $8.40, depending on concentration used.

Verdict: PAA Pro is significantly more cost-effective, both in price per gallon and cost per use.

3. Equipment Compatibility

Both sanitizers are safe for use on:
• Fermenters
• Kegs
• Brite tanks
• Hoses
• Packaging lines

And they’re all compatible with:
• Stainless steel
• Plastics
• Rubber gaskets

Verdict: Tie — both products offer broad compatibility with standard brewing equipment.

4. Foam and Application Use

Star-Xene:
• Low foam, making it ideal for CIP (Clean-in-Place) systems.

Saniclean PAA Pro:
• Low foam in general use, but foaming increases when used with a coarse sprayer.
• Offers multi-purpose use including sanitizing, light cleaning, and spraying.

Verdict: PAA Pro offers more versatility in application but may foam more with specific spray systems. Star-Xene maintains consistent low foam.

5. Additional Benefits

Star-Xene:
• Straightforward sanitizer when activated.
• Ideal for routine equipment sanitation.

Saniclean PAA Pro:
• Contains nitric acid, which can extend the time between passivation cycles — a significant maintenance advantage.

Verdict: Sancilean PAA Pro provides a functional edge with nitric acid for extended equipment protection.

Conclusion

FEATURE STAR-XENE SANICLEAN PAA PRO
Activation Time Requires 20 min with Citric Acid

Ready-to-use
Cost per Gallon $154.50 + Citric Acid

$3
Cost per Barrel (1bbl) $9.54 - $21.30

$3.36 - $8.40
Equipment Compatibility Excellent Excellent
Foam Low Low unless sprayed
Additional Features Basic Sanitization Nitric Acid improves passivation; can be sprayed on outside of tanks

 

Final Recommendation

For breweries prioritizing cost-efficiency, ease of use, and extended maintenance intervals, Saniclean PAA Pro is the clear choice. While StarXene may still be suitable for operations already accustomed to its use and activation process, its higher price and added preparation steps make it less favorable for fast-paced brewery environments. We know you’re going to love PAA Pro, contact us today for pricing and formatting.