Innovative UV Chip Extends Food Shelf Life and Tackles Microorganisms
Singapore, Friday, 25 April 2025.
Singaporean researchers created a UV chip that preserves food by eliminating bacteria and viruses, including SARS-CoV-2, using UVC light, which could reduce global food waste significantly.
Revolutionizing Food Preservation
The innovative UV chip developed by Nanyang Technological University (NTU) in Singapore and PureFize Technologies of Sweden marks a significant advancement in food preservation technology. By incorporating ultraviolet (UV) light disinfection, specifically using UVC radiation, the chip effectively targets and eliminates a broad spectrum of microorganisms, including harmful bacteria like Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, and Legionella pneumophila, as well as viruses such as SARS-CoV-2 [1][3].
Environmental and Health Benefits
This technological advancement comes with substantial environmental and health benefits. The chip’s ability to extend the shelf life of food items is anticipated to drastically reduce food waste, a major environmental issue worldwide. Traditional food preservation methods can often employ chemicals or energy-intensive refrigeration, but this UV chip operates efficiently without mercury and requires no external cooling, making it highly eco-friendly [2]. Furthermore, its capability to neutralize pathogens on par with conventional mercury lamps without using hazardous materials highlights its potential for safer consumer use [1][3].
Technological Specifications
The UV chip is compact, measuring only a few centimeters, and incorporates cutting-edge cathodoluminescence to generate UVC light at a peak wavelength of approximately 265 nm, known for its effectiveness in microorganism inactivation [3]. Its operational capability between -20 to 100 degrees Celsius, along with instant on-and-off functionality, presents versatile applications, from household food storage to medical sanitation [2].
Commercialization and Global Impact
The introduction of EcoLoc, a device integrating this UV chip, showcases its commercial viability. Designed in partnership with PureFize Technologies, the EcoLoc is tailored for use with IKEA’s 365+ food storage lids, reinforcing food safety and extending freshness by up to a week without noticeable changes in taste or odor [2][3]. As Dr. Vijay Kumar Sharma from NTU asserts, this innovation is a pivotal breakthrough in improving both food safety and reducing the incidence of infectious diseases [3].
Future Applications
Looking forward, the researchers envisage expanding the UV chip’s applications beyond food preservation. Potential future uses include sterilizing medical equipment and enabling more hygienic home environments, further solidifying its role in public health advancement [2][3]. These developments not only affirm Singapore’s position at the forefront of technological innovation but also significantly contribute to global efforts in sustainable and safe food production [3].