Manufacturer bets big on HPP technology

The Florida-based company is investing heavily in high-pressure processing (HPP), a processing method that relies on elevated pressure, rather than heat, to kill microbes and otherwise transform food items. The tech is gaining ground because of its ability to preserve food quality, keep freshness and extend shelf life.

Processing partnership​

Stakool is joining forces with a US-based HPP processor to help its entry into HPP and consumer food products. Kevin Quirk, president and CEO, says while its area of speciality (health and wellness products) is growing, opportunities abound in food products.

“There are still too many people who do not have access to affordable nutritional options​,” he said. “HPP can change that, allowing us to boost food safety, extend shelf-life and improve margins, while providing all consumers with fresh, wholesome, natural food at an affordable price.​"

Quirk declined to name Stakool’s HPP partner, because the ink is not yet dry on the final arrangement.

Consumer products​

In addition to tackling HPP-produced products, Stakool has created its Consumer Products Group, which will hone in on creating brands and deploying products using the technology. According to Stakool representatives, leadership has faith that the group will lead to significant growth, as it brings all-natural and organics brands into the fold.

Going forward, Quirk said, Stakool intends to acquire established natural-food brands, convert them to HPP and launch them with refreshed branding campaigns.