A lab-scale reciprocating agitation retort was developed by modifying an existing conventional vertical static retort to include a reciprocating mechanism consisting of: (i) a reciprocating cage; (ii) a slider-crank assembly; and (iii) a permanent magnet motor. Mechanism was provided to control the amplitude (3-30 cm) and frequency of reciprocations (0-5 Hz). 307 x 409 cans filled with 80% glycerin to 10 mm headspace and equipped with a single particle were processed under different operating temperatures (110-130 degrees C), frequencies (0-4 Hz) and amplitudes (5-25 cm). Heat transfer analysis of the system revealed a very uniform and rapid heating scenario with 52-87% reduction in the equilibration time of the cold-spot and 2-7 times enhancement in the values of heat transfer coefficients. Consequently, process time required to achieve lethality of 10 min, reduced from 45 min to 17-24 min. Reciprocation processing also resulted in 26-36% reduction in quality-deterioration index (cook-value/lethality), showing potential to deliver high quality products. (C) 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.