Microzap technology keeps bread fresh for 60 days, researchers say

GlobalPost

A Lubbock, Texas-based company called Microzap has developed a method to keep bread edible for 60 days, BBC News reported. Typically, bread goes moldy in about 10 days.

The company’s researchers realized that a microwave device they designed to kill bacteria such as MRSA and salmonella could also be used to kill mold spores in bread, drastically prolonging its shelf life, BBC News reported.

The device delivers directional microwaves at varying doses and intensities to destroy disease-causing microorganisms, according to the company.

The technology could help decrease food waste, BBC News reported.

Americans throw away 40 percent of the food they buy every year, according to an August 2012 report from the Natural Resources Defense Council, Reuters reported.

Microzap CEO Don Stull told BBC News that the company’s technology could also help manufacturers reduce or avoid using preservatives and chemicals to mask the preservative taste in bread.

Microzap has some hurdles to jump before manufacturers start using the technology, BBC News reported, including convincing companies that microwaving bread is worth the additional cost and persuading customers that 60-day-old bread is nothing to get skeeved out about.

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