Plant-based edible coating company awarded research grant
Akorn Technology has been awarded a National Science Foundation (NSF) Small Business Innovation Research grant to advance its plant-based edible coatings for fresh produce.
The technology aims to enable commercial postharvest application of essential oils combined with other natural plant extracts to control plant pathogens without synthetic fungicides that can led to resistant strains of pathogens.
By combining natural antimicrobial agents with proprietary upcycled plant protein technology, Akorn’s solution is effective and sustainable, reducing food waste while improving food safety, according to the company. The coatings can be used with mangos, avocados, sweet potatoes, citrus and other produce affected by diseases such as anthracnose, stem end rot and blue and green mold.
“Our mission has always been to tackle the global challenge of food waste with sustainable, science-based solutions,” Akorn Technology CEO Anthony Zografos said in a news release. “This NSF award is both a recognition of our progress and a critical boost to our efforts to replace harmful synthetic fungicides with safe, natural alternatives. We’re bringing together the best of nature and science to protect fresh fruits and vegetables from farm to table.”
Zografos invited interested growers to contact Akorn to participate in a first round of commercial trails, scheduled to begin in the fourth quarter of 2025.
“This is a chance to be at the forefront of an agricultural breakthrough that will improve product quality, meet consumer demand for clean-label produce, and open doors to premium export markets,” he said.
The award is the fourth consecutive NSF grant awarded to Akorn to develop and launch its postharvest solutions, according to the release.
Akorn’s technology will be displayed at the International Fresh Produce Association Summit, set for Oct. 16-18 in Anaheim, California.
The company announced in August that it is expanding its presence in Brazil to help extend the country’s exports of mangos, avocados, limes, melons and papayas to new markets.
