The food industry is undergoing a period of transformation, with health, safety, and sustainability driving innovation. In this context, AgriCoat NatureSeal Ltd, part of the Mantrose Group, presents NatureSeal PT1, a sulphite-free solution to prevent browning in peeled, sliced, or diced potatoes. This development was created in Europe by the UK team, led by the new R&D scientist, Benjamin Hutchings.
Metabisulfite has been a common treatment for decades, but its use raises concerns due to risks such as severe allergic reactions, unsafe working environments, and poor brand image due to labeling with undesirable additives. The market demands clean label alternatives that preserve color, texture, and flavor.
It offers advantages such as no sulfites or allergens, suitable for vegans, halal, and kosher, no metallic taste or chemical aftertaste, effective use in air-stored, fresh-packed, or vacuum-packed products, low application concentration (0.2–0.7% w/w), and low cost.
NatureSeal PT1 is dissolved in water and used as an immersion bath after peeling and washing, at a concentration of 0.2–0.7% w/w and an adjustable time of 1 to 15 minutes. One liter of solution treats at least 10 kg of potatoes, maintaining color for up to 48 hours in the open air and up to 10 days in vacuum packaging, without altering flavor or cooking properties.
Tests show that PT1 offers results equivalent to or superior to metabisulfite, even at lower concentrations, maintains acrylamide formation during frying, improves color after cooking, and prevents unwanted flavors, thereby improving sensory perception.
For industries committed to the future, NatureSeal PT1 enables compliance with regulations and meets the demand for clean and sustainable foods, making it ideal for refrigerated lines, vacuum packaging, catering, and supermarkets.
With this information, Agricoat NatureSeal participates in Post-Harvest Innovations 2025