VerraGlo, LLC — Department of Agriculture SBIR Phase II: 8.5

Description

Collaborators at VerraGlo LLC and the University of Kentucky have patented foundationaltechnology for metal-phosphate luminophores (MPL) that emit luminescence proportional to thehydroperoxide content of edible fats & oils using commercially available luminometers (r-squaregreater than 0.98).This project will continue to build upon the technological advances made duringthe SBIR Phase I project by working closely with industrial collaborators customers and non-profitscientific association to provide a sound and economical basis for replacing the existing iodometrictitration method for measuring peroxide value (PV) in edible fats and oils. This project closelyaligns in the SBIR Topic area "Food Science and Nutrition (8.5).Edible fats and oils exhibitinherent susceptibility to oxidation leading to rancidity. The VerraGlo MPL sensor technology willbe a key component of a sustainable edible fats & oils industry by eliminating the toxic solventsused in the currently available assays for PV. The VerraGlo MPL sensor material/assay willprovide a more convenient and less expensive technique thus minimizing waste.Industry strategic partners and potential customers have provided strong letters of support (includedin this proposal).Archer Daniels Midland Co. alone processes over 50000 metric tons per day o fvegetable oils which have to be tested at multiple steps in the process for "peroxide value".Otheredible oil processors (e.g. Benson Hill Seed Company Cargill Hunt Wesson Humko Bunge) andfood processors (e.g. Nestl© Pepsico Kraft Kellogg´s ConAgra and Tyson Foods) are potentialcustomers.VerraGlo LLC presents a strong commercialization plan as part of this Phase IIproposal.