A sodium chlorite (NaClO.sub.2) solution is admixed with flowing water to form a flowing water and sodium chlorite (NaClO.sub.2) solution. A flowing water and acid solution is admixed into the flowing water and sodium chlorite (NaClO.sub.2) solution. The combined solutions are directed into and through a mixing chamber to form a homogenous, acidified sodium chlorite solution. The homogenous, acidified sodium chlorite solution is removed from the mixing chamber and is either utilized as a liquid or is frozen to form ice that is utilized. The acidified sodium chlorite solution provides a slow release of chlorine dioxide gas (ClO.sub.2) for use in water treatment, in food plant sanitation, in ice for icing food items, and as an antimicrobial solution for direct application to food items.