New Ecoloc product taps UV technology to turn Ikea food containers into tools that fight food waste

Launching on International Food Waste Day, Ecoloc is a new kitchen product with a lid tailored to fit all Ikea food containers in the 365+ series. 

Using UV technology from Swedish research company, PureFize, this is said to illuminate food contained within an Ikea container, through the adapted lid.

Depending on how the food has been handled and its condition when placed in the container, using the bactericidal light can extend shelf life by up to 300%, it is claimed.   

Food contamination happens largely from microorganisms in the air and when someone or something touches it, leading to food degradation.

However, when food is placed in a container and EcoLoc is applied, the UV light kills the microorganisms. Research found that bread can last 200% longer, and tomatoes up to 300% longer when using the product. 

Halving global food waste per person at retail and consumer levels by 2030 is one of the UN's Agenda 2030 goals. The UN designated 29th September as International Food Waste Day, to highlight issues from around the globe.  

Purefize’s Chief Product Officer, Johan Tingsborg, says: “From salting and drying food, to canning, refrigeration, and vacuum packing, we have always tried to innovate to find ways to extend food shelf life. Now, we're taking the next step with EcoLoc, making it easier for all households to reduce the amount of food we throw away.” 

Global food waste expert, Åsa Sandberg, says: “Food containers are used in homes around the world, and with innovations like EcoLoc, these containers become a tool against food waste where every individual can contribute to reducing food waste and achieving the UN's goals.”