Biomethanation at 45 °C offers high process efficiency and supports hygienisation.

•No differences in the methane production at 37, 45 and 55 °C.•Stable biogas production at 37, 45 and 55 °C up to 6 g VS L−1 d−1.•Greater potential for treating high organic loads at 45 °C compared to 37 and 55 °C.•Pathogen inactivation at 45 °C better than at 37 °C, and as good as at 55 °C.•The microbiota was stronger affected by temperature than by the organic loading.