Alternative gas mix research partners needed to combat Co2 shortages

Following global carbon dioxide (CO₂) shortages, Campden BRI is seeking partners to help with alternative gas mix research. The potential partnerships will help to reduce or replace CO₂ in the event of a third shortage and will aim to provide information on microbiological and sensory effects.

The current CO₂ shortage has significantly impacted many industries. Leader of the project, Greg Jones, Campden BRI Microbiologist, commented: “In recent years, combinations of events beyond the control of industry or government have led to the closure of fertiliser plants that supply food-grade carbon dioxide. Food products packaged in protective atmospheres, containing CO2, are at risk of a decrease in quality if there is another shortage.

“Having readily available information on the effects of changing the gas mix would be beneficial for these businesses.”

Specifically, the scientists at Campden BRI are looking for poultry producers and retailers to assist them with the project. This would allow them to undertake comprehensive testing of alternative modified atmosphere gas mixes to combat concerns over the current CO₂ crisis.

As Co2 prices rise for businesses, consumers will be expected to pay the price

Meat producer 2 Sisters Food Group has taken a keen interest in the project. Danica Hillson, its Technical Director for UK Poultry said: “As supply chain shocks are now more commonplace, 2 Sisters Food Group wants to build resilience by testing alternative gas mixes. The idea is to have a set of results that can be used to show the effect on the shelf-life of changing to an achievable gas mixture in a time of crisis.”

She continued: “Having these results readily available will be extremely useful to demonstrate to our customers that although there may be a change to the shelf-life of the product, we know what that change is and can plan accordingly. This project will be invaluable for addressing the risk to our business posed by another carbon dioxide shortage.”

All participants will be promised exclusive access to the results for a period of time before Campden BRI releases the information to a wider audience. The research is set to commence in late 2022 and Campden BRI has urged any companies interested in taking part in this project to contact [email protected].