LOGAN — Utah State University (USU) has announced that a patented technology for dehydrating food using UV-A light is now available for licensing. Developed by Luis J. Bastarrachea in the university's Department of Nutrition, Dietetics and Food Sciences, this method reduces energy consumption while preserving the quality of dehydrated products.
The UV-A dehydration technology employs a controlled system that effectively removes moisture while maintaining the food's nutrients, color, and appearance. This innovation offers an alternative to traditional drying techniques, which can consume large amounts of energy and may negatively impact the quality of food.
Advantages Over Traditional Methods
Food dehydration is critical for preventing spoilage, extending shelf life, and lowering transportation and storage costs. Conventional methods such as hot-air drying and freeze-drying often lead to nutrient loss, discoloration, or unwanted texture changes, along with high energy costs and long processing times.
USU's technology addresses these issues by utilizing a closed-chamber system that combines UV-A light exposure with controlled temperature, humidity, and airflow. Automated moisture monitoring ensures efficient water removal with minimal effect on food quality.
Commercial Licensing Opportunities
As food manufacturers strive to enhance sustainability and product quality while managing energy costs, there is increasing demand for innovative processing technologies. Licensing partners can utilize this UV-A dehydration technology to benefit from reduced energy consumption, improved nutrient and color retention, and lower environmental impact without chemical additives.
The technology is designed to be scalable across various food products, offering significant opportunities for both equipment manufacturers and food producers seeking a competitive advantage.
Licensing opportunities for the UV-A Light Dehydration of Foods technology are now open through USU Technology Transfer Services. They are looking for commercial partners interested in further developing and implementing this technology, offering both exclusive and non-exclusive agreements as well as collaborative partnerships.
For inquiries, contact Hannah Feinsilber, Marketing & Business Development Specialist, or Preston Smith, Technology Commercialization Manager at USU Technology Transfer Services.
