The company has developed two technology platforms to address Waste. The first is a patented harvester that uses computer vision and machine learning to harvest broccoli with minimal waste. This eliminates the need for manual labor and ensures that only ripe broccoli heads are harvested. The second platform involves on-farm upcycling units that extract proteins, fibers, and sugars from broccoli stems, stalks, and leaves. This allows for the utilization of more of the crop for human food applications.

UPP has received pre-seed funding and a grant from DEFRA and UK Research and Innovation to support its work. The company is collaborating with researchers and engineers at the James Hutton Institute and the Agri-EPI Centre as part of the sustainable protein consortium. Food companies, including Innocent Drinks, are currently testing the upcycled broccoli ingredients in various products such as smoothies and plant-based sausages.

The harvesting process for broccoli is typically done by hand, with farm laborers cutting each broccoli head individually. UPP’s harvester uses machine learning and computer vision to assess the ripeness of broccoli heads, even if they are partially obscured by leaves. It also has a patented mechanism to protect the crop while harvesting. The harvester can operate at a speed of up to 3km/hour and can be used at night.

The upcycling process involves turning the stems, stalks, and leaves into protein, fiber, and sugar fractions on the farm. UPP squashes the biomass to obtain protein-rich juice and a pressed fibrous cake. The protein-rich juice is then separated into clear and green fractions, which can be incorporated into various products.

UPP has garnered interest from farmers in California, Spain, and the UK who are eager to adopt the harvesting technology. The company expects to sign contracts for harvesting in 2024.

The potential applications of broccoli protein include combining it with other plant proteins to increase protein digestibility and using it as an egg replacement. UPP is working with industry partners such as Samworth Brothers, Innocent Drinks, and Lees of Scotland to develop innovative food and beverage products.

The company’s initial tests suggest that there is a good window of time between harvesting and processing before the broccoli plants start to break down. This allows for efficient utilization of the harvested crop.

By implementing these innovative technologies, UPP aims to Reduce Food Waste, increase the utilization of broccoli crops, and contribute to a more sustainable food system.

The post UK Company UPP Upcycles Broccoli Waste to Reduce Food Waste appeared first on TS2 SPACE.