Ozone sterilisation heralds safer, longer life products

Scientists in Scotland have developed a novel way to make packaged personal care products safer by exploiting the germicidal power of ozone, a form of oxygen. Researchers at Glasgow University say the electrical plasma method safely turns some natural oxygen inside sealed packaging into ozone, which sterilises microbes on contents then reverts spontaneously to oxygen. Independent tests showed increased shelf life for products and a significant reduction of pathogens.

The method is being marketed by Anacail, a spin-out company seeking industrial partners to scale up to full manufacture. “Were very excited about the applications. Its safe and easy to use and doesnt require any chemical additives,” Anacail CEO Dr Ian Muirhead said.