Chitosan-based natural food preservative with antioxidant synergy
Explore the powerful antimicrobial properties of chitosan, a natural food preservative, enhanced by synergistic action with antioxidants. Suitable for combating acid-tolerant microorganisms, this solution offers safe and effective preservation for food products.
Overview
Chitosan is a versatile natural compound that acts as an effective food preservative, particularly in acidic environments where it becomes polycationic. This capability makes it exceptionally suited for combating acid-tolerant microorganisms. Chitosan offers a broad spectrum of antimicrobial activity, ensuring safety for human consumption as it is commonly used as a dietary supplement and in healthcare applications. When combined with natural antioxidants, chitosan exhibits a synergistic effect, enhancing its preservative qualities and providing a robust solution for food preservation.
Technical specifications
To maximize chitosan's antimicrobial effects, it is critical to optimize its molecular structure, specifically the molecular weight and degree of acetylation. This optimization requires expertise due to chitosan's diverse properties across its family of compounds. The formulation and salt form, as well as interactions with other product components, are crucial considerations in product development. Future validation involves producing pure chitosan samples with varying molecular weights and degrees of acetylation, and testing them in vitro against microorganisms like Zygosaccharomyces bailii to determine optimal conditions. Collaborations with industry partners, such as Kraft-Heinz, will help tailor the product matrix for best results.
Technology readiness level
This technology has reached TRL 9, indicating that it is fully developed and ready for commercial application. Current efforts focus on refining formulations in collaboration with industry partners to ensure optimal efficacy and product safety.
About Minamo
Minamo is a 2023 spinoff from the University of Iceland that develops patent-protected, antimicrobial silicone coatings designed to prevent healthcare-associated infections and biofouling. The company's technology is a two-step process involving environmentally friendly surface activation with hydroxyl amines in a non-toxic solvent, followed by biomolecule coating to confer antimicrobial properties. This approach seeks to enhance the biocompatibility of medical devices, such as implants and orthotics, without relying on toxic additives or antibiotics. By creating surfaces that deter bacterial adhesion, Minamo aims to improve patient safety and long-term device performance in clinical environments.
The technology is significant for the medical device industry as it addresses the critical challenge of infections related to silicone-based medical equipment. Through grants from organizations such as the Icelandic Technology Development Fund and recognition in international innovation forums, Minamo has demonstrated potential for scaling its research. The company actively engages with the global medical and silicone industries to forge collaborations and refine its solutions, aiming to provide a safer, more sustainable alternative that avoids occupational hazards and regulatory barriers typically associated with traditional antimicrobial treatments.
Inquire about this partnering listing
Industry applications
delivered to your inbox.