Feb. 14, 2017
A GREENER, CLEANER, WAY TO DEHYDRATE FRUIT
There’s a greener, cleaner way to freeze dry fruit, vegetables, and berries with technology being developed by NuWave Research that will help farmers get out of a jam. With a $3.5 million investment by Sustainable Development Technology Canada (SDTC), NuWave Research’s demonstrates its continuous vacuum microwave drying (VMD) on commercial crops can be used to reduce waste, upping sales and decreasing emissions related to the transportation of the crops to traditional freeze-drying facilities. NuWave Research has developed industrial continuous vacuum microwave drying (VMD) based on the principle that water boils at a lower temperature in a vacuum.
“Our Government is doing its part to encourage innovation and the next wave of clean technologies to help protect our environment and create high-quality jobs,” said the Honourable Joe Oliver, Canada’s Minister of Natural Resources. “Investment in projects such as these demonstrates our leadership in driving a vibrant clean technology industry in Canada.”
“NuWave Research is thrilled that SDTC and the Government of Canada have invested in our dehydration technology for food”, said Greg Stromotich, CEO of NuWave Research. “Our technology is clean by reducing food wastage and emissions, while providing an opportunity for food producers to increase their sales.”
NuWave Research is part of a consortium with Lally Farms Ltd, Canadian Farms Produce Inc and A.H. Prahst and Associates for this project.
The funding received by NuWave Research was a part of a $61.8 million investment from the Government of Canada to support 23 clean technology projects across Canada.
“SDTC is proud to add this project to its portfolio, now valued at more than $2 billion. When purchased and used by Canadian industry, the clean technologies developed by portfolio companies will enable a variety of sectors to increase their share of global markets,” said Dr. Vicky Sharpe, President and CEO of SDTC. “As Canada works to diversify its export markets, working with new trading partners in emerging countries, these innovative technologies will help make Canadian natural resources and products more globally attractive and competitive.”
ABOUT SDTC
On behalf of the Government of Canada, Sustainable Development Technology Canada helps commercialize Canadian clean technologies, readying them for growth and export markets. With a portfolio of companies under management valued at more than $2 billion, SDTC is positioning cleantech as a driver of jobs, productivity and economic prosperity.
SDTC operates two funds aimed at the development and demonstration of innovative technological solutions. The $590 million SD Tech Fund™ supports projects that address climate change, air quality, clean water, and clean soil. The $500 million NextGen Biofuels Fund™ supports the establishment of first-of-kind large demonstration-scale facilities for the production of next-generation renewable fuels.
SDTC works with the private sector, the financial sector and all levels of government to meet the Government of Canada’s commitment to create a healthy environment and a high quality of life for all Canadians. SDTC operates as a not-for-profit corporation.