The invention of scientists from the University of Economics in Poznan, a nanocomposite oxygen absorber, has obtained a European patent. The authors of the invention are lecturers and graduates of the UEP commodity science department: Prof. Zenon Foltynowicz, Dr Eng. Wojciech Kozak, Karol Muc, Eng. Joanna Stoińska and Marta Urbańska.

An oxygen scavenger based on zero-grade iron is used to protect packed food from the effects of oxygen. It contributes to the extension of the shelf life and positively affects the sensory characteristics of the product. It prevents food spoilage and reduces food waste.

The revolutionary nature of the invention lies in the fact that the absorber is a part of the package and is not added directly to the food – like antioxidants. In addition, the invention of Poznan scientists also works under anhydrous conditions and can be used to protect dry food products.