Ian Wallman
Photo credit Ian Wallman
Food tech trailblazer OSY Group has agreed a commercial partnership to apply its technology on to packaging for soft fruits predominantly sold through UK supermarkets.
The collaboration with packaging manufacturer SHARPAK Aylesham aims to extend the shelf life of strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, blueberries and grapes, reducing food waste.
OSY Group’s antimicrobial coating enables food to stay fresh for longer by leaving microscopic pins on packaging surfaces which puncture and kill microbes, slowing the natural spoiling process that affects the produce within.
The partnership with SHARPAK comes after extensive testing of the technology with commercial partners globally, independent laboratories and other facilities, which has proven it to be food safe and compliant with the Food Contact Materials regulations for fresh produce.
SHARPAK, based near Canterbury in Kent, develops, manufactures and distributes the largest portfolio of packaging for fruit and vegetables in the UK.
Marc Braterman, chief executive of OSY Group, said the partnership will see the companies work together to deliver the technology across SHARPAK’s extensive customer base and into more sectors.
He added: “We are extremely excited to announce our commercial partnership with SHARPAK, the key player offering the widest range available of packaging of soft fruits sold by UK supermarkets. Its packaging is also used for a broad cross-section of fresh produce and other food categories, including meat and poultry.
“Our coating technology, which is proven and ready for deployment in a variety of markets, is a huge and beneficial differentiator for food producers, retailers and consumers, as it reduces wastage and helps keep food fresher for longer. For some products, a one-day extension of shelf life can reduce food waste by up to 50 per cent.
“SHARPAK is an innovation leader in its market and is committed to enhancing sustainability for its customers. Likewise, we are a driver of innovation in food packaging technology, and we look forward to a successful partnership with SHARPAK while also taking our coating to other produce markets in the UK.”
Martin Taylor, SHARPAK business director, said: “This partnership with OSY Group marks an exciting step forward in packaging innovation. Their antimicrobial coating fits seamlessly with our mission to deliver smarter, more sustainable solutions that meet the real-world needs of our customers.
“Extending the shelf life of soft fruits directly supports waste reduction across the supply chain, a growing priority for the entire sector and the consumer.
“SHARPAK has consistently led the market in introducing new technologies in fresh produce packaging, and we’re proud to set the benchmark for innovation and performance in the sector.
“This collaboration is a natural next step in continuing to bring meaningful improvements to our customers and the wider industry.”
Globally it is estimated that US$2.6 trillion of food is wasted every year, with nearly 25 per cent of all fruit and vegetables lost in this way.