Upcycling of wood pulp waste for food-grade cellulose production
United BioScience offers a sustainable solution for producing microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) as a food-grade, organic replacement for titanium oxide using waste valorization techniques. The process utilizes supercritical CO2 extraction from wood pulp waste, rice husks, and jute fiber, achieving high purity and environmental benefits.
Overview
United BioScience presents an innovative approach to waste valorization by transforming wood pulp waste, rice husks, and jute fiber into microcrystalline cellulose (MCC). This approach replaces titanium oxide with a food-grade, organic alternative, emphasizing sustainability and environmental responsibility. The process leverages supercritical CO2 extraction, ensuring clean-label production with minimal use of chemicals and solvents. Designed for the nutraceutical and functional food industries, this technology promises high purity, neutral taste, and meets GRAS standards, appealing to manufacturers seeking clean-label ingredients.
Technical specifications
Key features:
- Utilizes waste materials such as wood pulp waste, rice husks, and jute fiber
- Supercritical CO2 extraction ensures high purity and minimal chemical use
- Produces MCC that is food-grade, organic, and suitable for nutritional supplements
- Applications include opacification in beverages and creamers, and functionality in supplements (tableting, bulking)
- Emphasis on sustainability with low CO₂ emissions and circular economy principles
- Comprehensive feasibility studies and pilot scale modeling to ensure scalability and economic viability
Technology readiness level
This technology is at TRL 6, indicating a prototype has been demonstrated in a relevant environment. Future plans include further feasibility studies and scale-up modeling to enhance production capabilities and market readiness.
About United BioScience
United BioScience is an ingredient supplier that provides safe, natural, organic, and bioavailable extracts for the nutraceutical and functional food industries. The company utilizes proprietary supercritical CO2 extraction technology to produce clean-label ingredients without the use of harsh solvents or chemicals. Additionally, their AbsoluteNano technology serves to improve the bioavailability of fat-soluble ingredients by converting them into water-dispersible forms. They prioritize transparency and traceability throughout their supply chain, from the initial sourcing of raw biomass to the final extract.
The company serves as a partner for brands seeking to innovate with clean-label, high-purity ingredients. Beyond ingredient supply, United BioScience offers comprehensive contract manufacturing, white labeling, and toll processing services, supported by in-house laboratory capabilities for formulation development, QA/QC, and stability testing. By focusing on sustainable, solvent-free processing, they assist manufacturers in creating products that meet rigorous consumer demands for quality and purity while avoiding common industry contaminants.
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