About
BacAllFree Project
Controlling bacteria and allergen contamination in the food industry using biomimetic surfaces
Context
1. Biofilms formed in the dairy industry are public health and economic concerns; they can contaminate food products and be highly resistant to cleaning and disinfection.
2. Problems in removing allergens from dairy contact surfaces and cross-contamination of different products are increasing in the food market sector, leading to expensive food recalls and life-threatening allergic reactions.
Aims
Develop tailor-made antifouling, non-toxic surfaces inspired by the self-cleaning structures of plant surfaces to (1) reduce bacteria and allergen deposition on surfaces and (2) facilitate the removal of organic deposits formed in critical zones of dairy processing facilities.
Expected Impact
This project addresses 3 goals of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development:
Reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from contamination, hazardous chemicals, and water pollution.
Upgrade the infrastructure of industries to make them sustainable, with increased resource-use efficiency and greater adoption of clean and environmentally.
Contribute to a decrease in global food waste and reducing food losses along production and supply chains.
This work is financially supported by national funds through the FCT/MCTES (PIDDAC), under the project 2022.05314.PTDC.
Designed by Francisca Sousa Cardoso