Kitocoat

Kitocoat is a Swedish food-technology company that develops an edible, biodegradable, and plastic-free coating designed to preserve the freshness of fruits and vegetables [1, 2, 8]. Developed at the KTH Royal Institute of Technology, the solution utilizes chitosan—a natural biopolymer derived from sources such as crustaceans and fungi—to form a protective barrier on produce [1, 2, 8]. By mimicking natural defensive mechanisms, the coating creates a physical shield that reduces moisture loss, inhibits microbial growth, and protects against environmental stressors, thereby slowing spoilage [2, 6, 8].

This technology provides a sustainable alternative to conventional plastic packaging, helping growers, distributors, and retailers reduce food waste and lower packaging costs [1, 6, 8]. By extending shelf life—in some trials by up to seven times—the product aims to lower environmental impact and reduce reliance on synthetic plastics that contribute to microplastic pollution [1, 5, 6]. Kitocoat works with supply chain partners to validate its effectiveness across various crops and storage conditions, striving to revolutionize how fresh food is handled and preserved [1, 6, 8].