Two University of Guelph innovations represented Canada in displays at the United Nations General Assembly in New York City this week.
Innovative packaging that uses nanotechnology to lengthen the shelf life of soft fruits and a “Lucky Iron Fish” used to combat anemia, both from Guelph, are among 13 concepts showcased in an international “innovation marketplace” Sept. 28 at the assembly.
The marketplace is part of a session on sustainable innovation and development being held during the UN General Assembly. It’s sponsored by international agencies including the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, Australian Aid, the Government of Canada, UNICEF, World Bank Group and the Rockefeller Foundation.
Prof. Jay Subramanian, Department of Plant Agriculture, presented U of G research on nanotechnology and soft fruit preservation, intended to reduce post-harvest losses and enhance global food security.
This project is funded by the International Development Research Centre and Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada under the Canadian International Food Security Research Fund.
Biomedical science PhD student Gavin Armstrong displayed the Lucky Iron Fish, which has already won numerous innovation awards. The “fish” is a palm-sized chunk of iron placed into water being sterilized or boiled. It can help provide about 75 per cent of daily iron requirements and increase the body’s iron stores.
Armstrong is commercializing the technology, which was developed by former Guelph graduate student Christopher Charles.
The Lucky Iron Fish also received nine CLIO awards this week. The annual awards program recognizes innovation and creativity in advertising, design and communication. A ceremony was held in New York City Wednesday and was hosted by actor Alec Baldwin.
The Lucky Iron Fish’s CLIO awards included grand prix and gold medals in the healthcare, innovation and design categories.
“We are thrilled and honored to have made such a splash at the CLIOs,” Armstrong said. “All puns aside, for a new company, this level of recognition does so much to help us tackle iron deficiency, one of the world’s biggest health problems, and get more fish out to those who need them most.”