Pioneering Sustainable Packaging in Agriculture
With BCCAI's support, QuantoTech developed innovative, 100% recyclable and compostable packaging solutions for their delicate produce. This initiative, enhanced by collaboration with BCIT, not only addresses environmental concerns but also meets CanadaGAP food safety standards, positioning QuantoTech as a leader in sustainable agriculture in B.C.
The problem
In recent years, the agricultural industry has faced growing concerns about the environmental and health impacts of plastic packaging. Plastic waste accumulates in landfills and natural habitats, taking hundreds of years to decompose and causing long-term pollution. It contaminates soil, disrupts ecosystems with microplastics and threatens aquatic life through runoff.
QuantoTech, an indoor vertical farming company in Vancouver, has recognized these risks, particularly with delicate produce like butterhead lettuce, which traditionally requires plastic clamshells for protection. With Canada’s single-use plastic ban, QuantoTech aims to lead the industry by reducing plastic waste and finding innovative, sustainable alternatives.
The solution
In 2023, BCCAI provided funding and support to QuantoTech, enabling the development of packaging prototypes that protect produce from physical and physiological damage. The result was sustainable, 100% recyclable and compostable packaging bags that enhance the safety of leafy greens and minimize supply chain waste.
Through this partnership, QuantoTech also collaborated with the British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT), gaining expert guidance on food safety and sustainable packaging solutions. BCIT’s professionals helped navigate food safety standards and explore new packaging innovations.
A critical success factor was integrating a comprehensive food safety management system compliant with CanadaGAP standards. CanadaGAP, a rigorous food safety program for fresh produce, covers essential aspects such as site history, soil management, pest control and worker hygiene. With BCCAI’s support, QuantoTech developed the necessary documentation to meet these standards, ensuring the safety and quality of their produce.
The project’s completion in 2024 marks a significant milestone for QuantoTech, positioning the company to expand its market reach. Equipped with sustainable packaging and a robust food safety system, QuantoTech is prepared to sell its products to CanadaGAP-certified customers and drive future growth.
Following this success, QuantoTech is excited to pursue new initiatives, including auto-dosing technology, further plastic reduction and assessing the impact of hyper-local growing on CO2 reduction.
STATUS: COMPLETED
- $20,000 in funds
- Non-HQP job(s) created:1
