OSY Group has successfully partnered with 21 organizations across the UK, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Singapore, and India to conduct commercial testing projects in various market segments, particularly focusing on food and drink packaging.
The trials involve grocery retailers, food producers, packaging companies, and exporters, emphasizing the preservation of fresh produce such as fruits, vegetables, meat, fish, poultry, bread, and fresh flowers.
OSY Group has developed an innovative antimicrobial packaging coating known as Xtend. This cutting-edge solution enhances the shelf life of a range of food items by utilizing microscopic pins on packaging surfaces that puncture and eliminate microbes. Consequently, this technology slows down the natural spoilage process affecting the enclosed produce.
Extensive testing in the UK, undertaken with a leading premium grocer and validated by independent laboratories and universities, confirms that Xtend meets food safety standards and complies with Food Contact Materials regulations for fresh produce.
Headquartered at the Manchester International Office Centre near Manchester Airport, OSY Group is poised to introduce Xtend to the UK and global markets within the upcoming months.
According to Chief Executive Marc Braterman, the enthusiasm from 21 commercial partners to engage in trials underscores OSY Group’s increasing international presence across various regions and food types. This also validates the demand for sustainable food and drink packaging solutions aimed at reducing food waste.
He stated, “The data from our trials in the UK – both commercial and non-commercial – has been extremely positive and well-received, and we are excited to see further testing begin on an international scale.”
“Companies across various sectors are enthusiastic about the technology we have developed, and these latest projects mark a significant milestone for the business,” he added.
“It demonstrates a substantial demand for our product, which addresses a critical global issue where one-third of all food is wasted, significantly impacting greenhouse gas emissions,” he remarked.
“The investments secured thus far have empowered us to undertake these trials, allowing us to better assess the impact of our technology on diverse produce types in different markets and climates, as well as other forms of packaging.”
“We are confident that these trials will validate Xtend’s capabilities, having already established the technology’s efficacy in the UK,” he noted.
“The insights gained will steer our future commercial strategies, and we take pride in representing British sustainability and innovation on the global stage.”
OSY Group’s international aspirations received a boost through a five-figure grant from Innovate UK Business Growth, provided under its Global Explorers Programme. This funding is crucial for pursuing partnership opportunities and advancing research projects for Xtend.
The company previously benefitted from Innovate UK’s Better Food for All programme, which supports innovative approaches to nutrition challenges.
Additionally, OSY Group has successfully raised £1 million from private investors to fuel its development initiatives.
