A Manchester-based food technology company has received crucial backing from Innovate UK.
OSY Group aims to expand its innovative packaging technology to international markets.
Innovate UK’s Investment in OSY Group
Innovate UK’s Business Growth initiative has awarded the OSY Group, a Manchester-based food tech company, with a substantial grant under its Global Explorers Programme. This funding will assist the company in expanding to international markets, providing necessary resources to explore the adaptability of its highly innovative antimicrobial packaging solution, Xtend.
OSY Group has already made significant strides with previous investments amounting to over £1 million from individual stakeholders and the recent £500,000 from Innovate UK. The grant will be pivotal for continued research and development of Xtend, ensuring its effectiveness across various markets and climates.
How Xtend Works
Xtend uses advanced technology that increases the shelf-life of food products like fruits and vegetables by incorporating microscopic pins on packaging surfaces. These pins work to puncture and eliminate microbes, reducing spoilage rates effectively. Extensive testing within the UK has confirmed its compliance with food safety regulations, making it a suitable choice for fresh produce packaging.
This breakthrough innovation targets a major global issue, with one-third of food produced being wasted. OSY Group’s technology aims to combat this, potentially decreasing the associated greenhouse gas emissions, which account for approximately 8-10% globally.
Marc Braterman, CEO of OSY Group, sees this as a triumph for environmental sustainability and market potential. ‘Having proven our technology in the UK, we now aim to adapt Xtend for diverse global markets, understanding specific needs and regulatory requirements,’ he stated.
Expansion Plans and Market Potential
The anticipated funding will reinforce OSY Group’s infrastructure for research, development, and subsequent market expansion. Targeting different environments, this programme assists in testing the viability of Xtend within diverse climates and packaging types.
On a broader scale, the company also aims to explore new areas within the food sector, including meats and bakery items. This strategic diversification could extend OSY’s influence and presence globally.
Innovate UK’s Role in Supporting SMEs
Innovate UK plays a critical role in enabling small to medium enterprises to reach international milestones. Their funding initiatives, like the Global Explorers Programme, facilitate SMEs to enter new, competitive landscapes, crucial for business growth.
Andreas Johansen, a senior innovation and growth specialist at Innovate UK Business Growth, commended OSY Group for its innovation and drive in breaking new grounds. ‘We are proud to support OSY Group’s R&D initiatives and international ventures,’ Johansen expressed, emphasising the fruitful partnership between Innovate UK and OSY Group.
This support highlights Innovate UK’s commitment to fostering innovation and international trade, aiding companies in tackling global challenges and enhancing competitiveness.
Testing and Compliance Measures
OSY Group’s Xtend technology has undergone rigorous testing across independent laboratories, evidencing its efficacy and compliance with existing food safety standards.
These tests ensure that the product not only meets regulatory expectations but also guarantees effectiveness in extending the lifespan of fresh produce, an essential factor for global market acceptance.
Adapting Xtend for different territories involves understanding regional regulatory landscapes, which OSY Group plans to navigate strategically with Innovate UK’s continued support.
Addressing Global Food Wastage
OSY Group’s innovative approach aims to mitigate the staggering amounts of food wastage worldwide, offering a practical solution through its advanced packaging technology.
By extending the shelf-life of food products significantly, this technology could play a key role in reducing waste and the subsequent environmental impact.
The company is actively seeking ways to broaden Xtend’s application, potentially including other perishable goods beyond fruits and vegetables, thereby addressing a wider scope of the food supply chain.
Conclusion
OSY Group’s strides in packaging technology signify a significant breakthrough in the fight against global food wastage. With Innovate UK’s backing, the company is poised to revolutionise food preservation and tap into global markets.
OSY Group leverages Innovate UK’s support to tackle global food wastage.
Their technological advancements promise to enhance food preservation and create new opportunities worldwide.
