MIAMI, FL - Fresh produce will soon be used in creative new ways thanks to Fresh Del Monte Produce’s recently expanded partnership. The supplier is teaming up with the University of Granada (UGR) to research how bioactive compounds from residues of different fruits can be used for medical and non-medical applications. More than a year of initial research looked into the effectiveness of bioactive compounds from certain fruits within Fresh Del Monte’s portfolio, yielding promising results.

“As one of the world’s largest producers of fruits, we see tremendous untapped potential within the produce we grow, including their residues,” said Mohammad Abu-Ghazaleh, Fresh Del Monte’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. “We are pleased to partner with the University of Granada, true experts in scientific research, and believe that this expanded partnership has the potential to realize breakthroughs in several key areas that we hope will ultimately improve many lives.”

University of Granada research groups led by Professors Juan Antonio Marchal and Vito Verardo have developed a methodology for the extraction of bioactive compounds from fruit residue, based on emerging technologies, for medical and non-medical applications. The research partnership will research highly prevalent diseases, dermo-cosmetics, and nutraceuticals and foods, according to a press release. Global health organizations list cancer, diabetes, obesity, and arterial hypertension as some of the most highly prevalent diseases.

By joining forces, Fresh Del Monte and UGR's Research Transfer Office (OTRI) aim to enhance ongoing research and development initiatives focused on utilizing fruit residue to create valuable products that promote healthy lifestyles. Together, they seek to minimize the buildup of residual products, champion sustainable practices across diverse industries, and lessen environmental footprints.

“This collaboration with Fresh Del Monte is of great importance for biomedical research, as it will allow us to obtain bioactive compounds from residues of different fruits for the treatment of highly prevalent diseases, as well as nutraceuticals to prevent the appearance of these diseases, which we believe can have a great impact on the health of the population,” said Marchal.

The ongoing partnership is scheduled to span 18 months, with key milestones delineated at various stages of the program.

We will keep you updated as we learn more about this innovative partnership.