Two projects by HZ research groups have been given the green light under the KIEM schemes of the SIA Regulatory Body.
In one of the projects, the Water Technology research group at HZ University of Applied Sciences, VAM WaterTech and Fruvo are working together to prevent and effectively remove bacterial growth and biological fouling in washing installations for potatoes, vegetables and fruit. Preventing this type of biofouling means that the installations do not need to be cleaned regularly. This saves water, energy and chemicals. VAM WaterTech is investigating whether the measures found are applicable on a large scale. The project has received a grant of €39,550. It runs from 1 April to 31 March 2027.
Strawberries
Strawberry Flavour Forever is the name of the second project in the KIEM schemes. This project focuses on adding value to residual flows from strawberry cultivation. Every year, the sector in the Netherlands grows more than 96 million kilograms of strawberries. A large proportion of these do not reach the market, for example because they are misshapen. This portion, around ten per cent, is sold cheaply or thrown away, even though these strawberries are full of flavourings, colourings, sugars and fibres. Strawberry grower HG Eerenburg, VARTA, the Marine Biobased Chemistry research group at HZ University of Applied Sciences and Avans University of Applied Sciences are looking for ways to use the waste streams in a smart and sustainable way.
Researcher Kathleen Vallons, among others, is investigating whether the residual flows can be used to produce hydrolates. These are water extracts that can be used in cosmetics, such as lotions and facial sprays, or as flavourings in food and beverages. The aim is to work towards a zero-waste approach, in which every part of the strawberry plant is used. The project of the Marine Biobased Chemistry research group will start on 2 February and will also run for one year.