Clean shouldn’t hurt the animals
it’s meant to protect. A 90-day pilot bringing the world’s first post-toxic cleaning system into animal shelters from kennel runs to cat wards to surgery suites. The chemicals protecting animals from disease are making them sick. 8× Shelter cats and dogs carry elevated QAC residues in feces vs. pet-home animals from cage surfaces they groom and lick. <2% Concentration at which QACs cause oral ulceration, drooling, fever, and pneumonia in cats often misdiagnosed as a calicivirus outbreak. 54% Higher asthma risk among cleaning workers documented for shelter staff exposed to bleach, quats, and phenols daily. THE INDUSTRY’S OPEN SECRET Every option on the shelf comes with a warning label. Read the Merck Veterinary Manual, the Koret Shelter Medicine Program, or the ASPCA infection-control guide. Every disinfectant in common use has a known toxicity profile and none are safe for the animals while being applied. COMMON SHELTER DISINFECTANTS Bleach (1:32) Caustic, corrosive, respiratory irritant · must be re-mixed daily IRRITANT Quats (Roccal, KennelSol, A-33) Toxic to cats · does not reliably kill parvo / panleuk / calici TOXIC · CATS Phenols & pine oils Lysol, Pine-Sol · fatal to cats · ASPCA explicitly warns against use DO NOT USE Accelerated H₂O₂ / Rescue™ Safer but caustic at use concentration; 5-min dwell, must rinse CAUTION Mother Ferment residue Food-derived · GRAS-grade · safe if licked from a paw SAFE For 70 years, shelter medicine has cycled between toxic and greenwashed. PETROCHEMICAL Effective but toxic, corrosive, and hazardous to animals. Bleach, quats, and phenols the incumbent standard, with documented mortality in cats and chronic respiratory harm in staff. “GREEN” Marketed as safer. Often just diluted petrochemistry. Many green cleaners emitted more VOCs than petrochemical counterparts. Several contained undisclosed carcinogens. BIOFERMENTED · POST-TOXIC Not petrochemical. Not greenwashed. Fundamentally different. An entirely new category built outside both legacy industries from food-derived, GRAS-grade ingredients. The shelter chemical closet, reduced to three products. From kennel runs to cat wards. From intake to surgery recovery. 01 · MF-01 All-Surface Concentrate 1:32 CONCENTRATE Safe on a paw. Safe on a tongue. Replaces 5–8 cleaners. Kennel walls, stainless cages, cat condos, exam tables, intake areas. 02 · MF-02 Advanced Antimicrobial READY-TO-USE 100× stronger than Lysol. Safer than salt. 5.69-log pathogen reduction. Parvo · Bordetella · Calici · Panleuk · Ringworm. 03 · MF-03 Floor & Run Stripper DIRECT APPLICATION Strips runs. Not lungs. No PPE, no fumes. Epoxy kennel floors, drains, outdoor runs safe while animals are nearby. TOXICITY · MEASURED, NOT MARKETED 1.7× safer than table salt. Mother Ferment tests into the highest global safety category “practically non-toxic” across all three products. No VOCs. No endocrine disruptors. No carcinogens. No skin sensitizers. Safe on a cat’s tongue. Safe in a puppy ward. Zero VOCs Safe Around Cats EPA 25(b) Exempt GRAS Ingredients Only ACUTE ORAL TOXICITY · LD₅₀ COMPARISON Phenolic Cleaner (Pine-Sol type) — FATAL TO CATS Quaternary Ammonium (“Quat”) — TOXIC · CATS Bleach (1:32 dilution) — IRRITANT Table Salt (NaCl) — BASELINE Mother Ferment — PRACTICALLY NON-TOXIC LONGER BAR = SAFER. BASED ON ACUTE ORAL LD₅₀ VALUES · GHS CATEGORY 5 SAFETY + PERFORMANCE · NO TRADEOFF And unlike quats, it actually kills parvo. 100× Stronger than Lysol on shelter pathogens — with the safety profile of our all-purpose cleaner. 96% Cleaning efficacy at a 1:32 dilution — matches the bleach benchmark shelter medicine already uses. 5.69 log Pathogen reduction (99.9998%). Independently verified against non-enveloped viruses by Eurofins. 3 SKUs Replaces 40+ legacy chemicals bleach, quats, phenols, AHP, degreasers across the whole shelter. ANIMALS · KENNEL · CAT WARD · SURGERY 01 End QAC toxicosis in cats No more oral ulcers, drooling, fevers that mimic calici outbreaks. No wet-surface protocols. 02 Reduce CIRDC & URI flare-ups Airway irritation from bleach and quat fumes is a known CIRDC co-factor remove it, reduce flare-ups. 03 Parvo & ringworm efficacy bleach-equivalent No more “quat-works-except-on-the-ones-that-matter.” A single chemistry for everything. STAFF · VOLUNTEERS · ADOPTERS 04 Safer for high-turnover staff and volunteers No daily bleach-mixing. No PPE complexity. No respiratory claims. Easier to train, easier to retain. 05 Adoption experience, redesigned No bleach smell. No watery-eyes walkthrough. Adopters meet calmer animals in a cleaner-feeling space. 06 One chemistry, one SOP, one closet 1:32 concentrate · no daily mixing · no lockboxes · donor-grade cost transparency per kennel-day. A 90-day pilot across 10–20 shelters Measured side-by-side against your current sanitation protocol on outbreak rates, staff incidents, cost per kennel-day, and adoption-area feedback. No rip-and-replace. Just evidence. SCOPE DURATION METRICS OUTCOME 10–20 shelters 90 days 4 KPIs Rollout plan Mix of municipal, private, and rescue. Dog kennel, cat ward, and surgery suite coverage. One sanitation SOP. Full product kit. On-site support from our team & a DVM advisor. CIRDC / URI rate · staff incident log · cost per kennel-day · length-of-stay delta. A system-wide pathway informed by your data publishable alongside your shelter medicine team. We are not cleaning kennels. We are removing harm from the system.
Clean shouldn’t poison the plate
or the peoplenear it. A 90-day pilot bringing the world’s first post-toxic cleaning system into the restaurant —from dish pit to dining room. A QUIET CRISIS IN EVERY KITCHEN Line cooks and dish crewsbreathe the most hazardousair in the restaurant. 54% higher asthma risk among cleaning and dish-pit workers vs. the general population. 1 pack/day Sustained exposure to conventional BOH cleaners sanitizers, degreasers, oven cleaner causes lung damage comparable to a pack-a-day habit. 73% of QSR and full-service operators cite BOH turnover as a top-three cost driver chemical handling is a leading complaint. THE INDUSTRY’S OPEN SECRET The chemicals cleaning yourfood-contact surfaces aren’trated for food contact. Quat sanitizers, chlorinated degreasers, oven strippers every one requires rinsing, dwell times, and PPE. On a Saturday rush, those controls break down. Residue ends up where the food is. WHAT’S ON A TYPICAL PREP SURFACE, POST-CLEANRESIDUE SURVEY · 2023 Quaternary ammoniumRespiratory sensitizer · asthmagenDETECTED Chlorine (hypochlorite)Forms chloramine with ammonia food residueDETECTED 2-butoxyethanolCommon degreaser solvent · hepatotoxinTRACE Mother Ferment residueFood-derived · GRAS-grade · edible if ingestedSAFE THE INDUSTRY MISSED THIS For 70 years, foodservice has cycledbetween toxic and greenwashed. PETROCHEMICAL Effective but toxic, corrosive, highly hazardous. Ecolab, Diversey, P&G Pro the incumbent standard, and the source of nearly every OSHA cleaning-chemical incident in foodservice. “GREEN” Marketed as safer. Often just diluted petrochemistry. Many green cleaners emitted more VOCs than their petrochemical counterparts. Several contained undisclosed carcinogens. BIOFERMENTED · POST-TOXIC Not petrochemical. Not greenwashed. Fundamentally different. An entirely new category built outside both legacy industries from food-derived, GRAS-grade ingredients. The BOH chemical closet, reduced to three products. From the dish pit to the dining room. From grease traps to high chairs. 01 · MF-01All-Surface ConcentratePrep tables to plate-ware. 1:32 CONCENTRATE Replaces 5–8 cleaners. Stainless, cutting boards, glass, counters, front-of-house fixtures. 02 · MF-02Advanced Antimicrobial 100× stronger than Lysol. READY-TO-USE 5.69-log pathogen reduction. E. coli · Salmonella · Listeria · Staph. 03 · MF-03Floor & Grease Stripper Cuts grease, not crews. DIRECT APPLICATION No PPE, no fumes. Kitchen floors, hood filters, grease-trap adjacent safe during service. TOXICITY · MEASURED, NOT MARKETED 1.7× saferthan table salt. Mother Ferment tests into the highest global safety category “practically non-toxic” across all three products. No VOCs. No endocrine disruptors. No carcinogens. No skin sensitizers. Residue on a cutting board is food-safe. Zero VOCs Food-Contact Approved EPA 25(b) Exempt GRAS Ingredients Only ACUTE ORAL TOXICITY · LD₅₀ COMPARISON Oven Cleaner / Degreaser — HIGHLY TOXIC Quat Sanitizer — MODERATE Typical “Green” Cleaner — LOW Table Salt (NaCl) — BASELINE Mother Ferment — PRACTICALLY NON-TOXIC LONGER BAR = SAFER. BASED ON ACUTE ORAL LD₅₀ VALUES · GHS CATEGORY 5 100× Stronger than Lysol on foodborne pathogens with the safety profile of our all-purpose cleaner. 96% Cleaning efficacy at a 1:32 dilution matches or beats Ecolab-class incumbents. 5.69 log E. coli reduction (99.9998%). Independently verified by Eurofins Laboratories. 3 SKUs Replaces 40+ legacy BOH and FOH chemicals across every surface in the house. BACK OF HOUSE · LINE · DISH · PREP 01Cut BOH chemical incidents to near zeroChemical burns · eye flushes · oven-cleaner ER visits · chloramine exposure events. 02Lower turnover in your hardest-to-staff stationsDish pit and overnight cleaning crews cite chemical handling as a top-five reason they leave. 03One training protocol, one chemical closetNo dilution errors · no specialized PPE · no lockbox for the oven stripper. BRAND · COMPLIANCE · GUEST 04Health-department differentiationFood-contact approved chemistry simplifies inspections and supports an “A” grade narrative. 05A brand story guests can taste“We don’t clean our kitchens with anything we wouldn’t serve.” A line that holds up to a food critic. 06Better unit economics1:32 concentrate · consolidated inventory · lower shrink · less wasted product down the drain. A 90-day pilot across 10–20 locations. Measured side-by-side against your current program on cost, efficacy, staff feedback, and incident rates. No rip-and-replace. Just evidence. SCOPE10–20 unitsMix of concepts and volumes your call. Works across QSR, fast casual, and full service. DURATION90 daysOne BOH training protocol. Full product kit. On-site support from our team. METRICS4 KPIsChemical cost per cover · ATP swabs · staff survey · health-dept. score delta. OUTCOMERollout planA system-wide pathway informed by real data from your kitchens — not marketing claims. We are not cleaning surfaces.We are removing harm from the system.
Chitosan IG in PLA
Recommended commercialization path Executive route selection for antimicrobial and functional PLA products. RECOMMENDATION 01 Start with Surface Coating, scale through Masterbatch Addition, and reserve Bulk Compounding for products where monolithic, full-thickness function is essential. Rationale — Low-MW, high-charge chitosan is best supported by literature in interfacial / compatibilized use; bulk routes carry the highest risk without reactive compatibilization. ROUTE COMPARISON 01 Surface Coating (PREFERRED FIRST) Aqueous dispersion · post-form retrofit STARTING LOADING 0.25–1.0 wt% in water · 0.2–1.0 g/m² dry BEST FOR Antimicrobial surface · O₂-barrier boost · fastest retrofit GAINS Strong surface activity Minimal resin change Fastest pilot FAILURE MODES Poor wetting Tack/blocking Abrasion loss Moisture sensitivity COMPLEXITY Low–Medium 02 Masterbatch Addition (SCALE NEXT) Pre-compounded carrier · let-down at extrusion FINAL USE LOADING 0.10–1.0 phr in PLA after let-down BEST FOR Easy dosing · scalable plant implementation GAINS Dispersion control Lot consistency Flexible SKU creation FAILURE MODES Poor let-down Agglomerates Moisture pickup Added cost COMPLEXITY Medium 03 Bulk Compounding (RESERVED USE) Direct melt blend · monolithic part STARTING LOADING 0.10–1.0 phr · stress-test to 2.0 phr BEST FOR Monolithic resin · full-thickness function · rigid parts GAINS (if compatibilized) Crystallization barrier Compostability Bulk function FAILURE MODES Aggregation Haze Brittleness ↑WVTR Thermal degradation Crack initiation COMPLEXITY High COMPATIBILIZER DEFAULT Masterbatch & bulk routes ADR-type epoxy chain extender first; MA-g-PLA second. NEXT STEPS Pilot Surface Coating · run ASTM D1003, D3985, F1927, E96, E2180/E2149 · on success, develop compatibilized masterbatch.
Two Chances to Reduce One Expensive Risk
Chitosan IG — A dual-action platform designed to suppress selected toxigenic fungi and adsorb aflatoxin B1 at two critical risk windows: pre-harvest and during processing/storage. Chitosan IG Slide 2 Executive Summary Why This Matters Now The Threat Aflatoxin contamination costs the US corn industry alone USD $52M–$1.68B annually under warmer conditions. Global losses estimated at USD 6–18 billion/year. Aflatoxins are heat-stable — once formed, they cannot be cooked out. Prevention is the only viable path. The Opportunity Chitosan IG addresses both risk windows — field infection AND post-harvest recontamination. Peer-reviewed research shows chitosan suppresses selected toxigenic fungi and may reduce mycotoxin accumulation under field validated conditions. Non-toxic, biodegradable, GRAS-pathway. The Ask Partner with us on a validated pilot — your grain, your conditions, measured results. We are not selling a silver bullet. We are proposing a risk-reduction tool backed by evidence, designed for your supply chain, ready for controlled validation. First commercial focus: Aflatoxin B1 risk reduction — especially Aspergillus flavus and A. parasiticus in corn and feed ingredients. Slide 3 The Business Problem Protect Margin Before the Downgrade Happens Load rejection at the elevator Aflatoxin levels above 20 ppb (FDA action level) = full load rejected or deep discount. Feed downgrade or destruction Contaminated grain loses feed-grade status → disposed of or heavily discounted. Export market lockout EU limit: 2 μg/kg AFB1 — one failed lot can lose an entire export contract. Liability and reputation exposure Animal losses and feed safety violations create cascading business risk. US Corn Industry Annual Loss Estimate $52M–$1.68B Under warmer contamination-prone conditions(climate scenarios based on recent warm years) Fungi → Crop mapping: A. flavus / A. parasiticus → Aflatoxins → Corn, feed ingredients F. graminearum / F. culmorum → DON, Zearalenone → Wheat, barley F. verticillioides → Fumonisins → Corn Penicillium verrucosum → Ochratoxin A → Stored cereals Slide 4 Health Stakes Aflatoxin Is Not Just a Quality Issue — It’s a Health Crisis Human Health Impacts Hepatocellular carcinoma (liver cancer) — AFB1 classified IARC Group 1 carcinogen Immune suppression — impaired lymphocyte function, increased infection susceptibility Child growth impairment — stunting linked to chronic dietary AF exposure in SSA/Asia Acute poisoning outbreaks — 2004 Kenya: 125+ deaths from contaminated maize Heat-stable — decomposition >237°C; cooking/roasting cannot eliminate once formed Regulatory limits: EU 2 μg/kg AFB1 | US/FDA 20 μg/kg total AF | WFP 10 μg/kg Animal / Feed Impacts Weight loss and poor feed conversion — direct economic impact on livestock operations Reduced growth rates — swine particularly susceptible (inefficient AF detoxification) Reproductive issues — impaired oocyte maturation, reduced fertility in breeding stock Immune suppression — increased disease susceptibility, higher veterinary costs Mortality — acute aflatoxicosis can be fatal; chronic exposure increases mortality rates AFM1 transfer to milk → nursing piglets, dairy products; 0.5–5% of ingested AFB1 becomes AFM1. Touchpoint 1 — Pre-Harvest Infection Starts in the Field — So Should Prevention Fungal colonization of grain begins during flowering and seed development. By harvest, toxin levels may already exceed regulatory limits. Treating only at storage ignores the largest window of vulnerability. Chitosan’s pre-harvest mechanisms: 1. Direct antifungal action — disrupts fungal cell walls/membranes, inhibits hyphal growth 2. Plant defense elicitation — ~3-fold upregulation of defense genes (TaPAL, TaPR1, TaPR2) = systemic acquired resistance acquired resistance 3. Mycotoxin pathway suppression — downregulates trichothecene biosynthesis genes in F. graminearum Published Results Chitosan HCl on Wheat — Fusarium Head Blight 6% severity vs. 20% control FHB-resistant genotype DBC480, 21 dpi. Chitosan reduced fungal spread and some mycotoxin accumulation. Francesconi et al. (2020) Molecules Chitosan + Seaweed Biostimulant on Wheat 80% reduction in infection area 84% fewer conidia produced. Infected spikes reduced 38.5%–53.8%. DON levels reduced. Gunupuru et al. (2019) PLOS ONE Key Mechanistic Finding Chitosan strongly downregulated F. graminearum genes for cell growth, respiration, virulence, and trichothecene biosynthesis — while conventional fungicides (tebuconazole) actually upregulated the toxin pathway. Slide 6 Touchpoint 2 — Processing & Storage Grain Is Still Vulnerable After It Leaves the Field Harvest handling, auger damage, drying delays, temperature swings in transit, and condensation in bins create new opportunities for A. flavus proliferation — even on grain that tested clean at harvest. Risk Progression HarvestMechanical damage exposes kernel interior ↓ DryingDelays >24h at >18% MC = rapid mold growth ↓ TransportCondensation, mixing of clean & hot grain ↓ StorageHot spots, moisture migration, months at risk ↓ ProcessingSurface dust & fines = high contact area Why chitosan IG is suited to this stage: Can be applied directly to grain surfaces where contact with fungi and newly produced toxin is highest Designed to adsorb/sequester aflatoxin B1 already present near grain surfaces Inhibits A. flavus spore germination, hyphal development, and conidia production on grain Non-toxic, biodegradable — compatible with feed-grade and food-grade grain handling Storage-Stage Evidence ~75% mycelial growth inhibition Chitosan combinations reported ~75% inhibition of A. flavus mycelial growth and complete inhibition of conidia germination on corn grain surfaces. Mechanism: spore aggregation, abnormal morphology, swelling, bud tube polarization, leakage of intracellular contents → growth arrest. Gong et al. (2024) Sustainability 16(8):3171 Slide 7 Dual-Action Mechanism How Chitosan IG Works: Two Modes, One Platform Mode A Fungal Suppression Suppresses selected toxigenic fungi under validated conditions Electrostatic binding to negatively charged fungal cell walls Membrane permeabilization → leakage of intracellular contents Spore aggregation + abnormal morphology + swelling Inhibition of hyphal growth and conidia germination Downregulation of mycotoxin biosynthesis genes Pre-harvest bonus: Also elicits plant systemic acquired resistance (SAR) — ~3× upregulation of defense genes TaPAL, TaPR1, TaPR2. Mode B Aflatoxin B1 Adsorption Designed to adsorb/sequester aflatoxin B1 already present near grain surfaces Cationic amino groups bind anionic mycotoxin molecules High surface area formulation maximizes contact with toxins on grain Sequestration reduces bioavailable toxin near kernel surfaces pH-responsive activity in slightly acidic grain surface environments Key advantage at storage/processing: Product contacts grain exactly where surface contamination and newly produced toxin concentrate — fines, dust, kernel surfaces. Claim boundary: Efficacy depends on formulation, dose, moisture, pH, contact time, fungal species, and matrix. Does NOT claim complete detoxification.
Chitosan AG: Activating Defense in Broccoli & Peas
A water-soluble chitosan oligosaccharide hydrochloride that primes the plant’s own immune system turning crops into active participants in their own protection. 01 — The Molecule What Chitosan AG Is A low-molecular-weight chitosan oligosaccharide hydrochloride — < 3,000 Da, 2–20 glucosamine units. Fully water-soluble clean dissolution, no nozzle clogging Rapidly absorbed via roots and leaves Tank-mix friendly with NPK, humic / fulvic, amino-acid biostimulants, Trichoderma, Bacillus 02 — The Cascade PTI → SAR + ISR COS-AGMAMP ↓ Plant PRRreceptor ↓ PTI triggeredpattern-triggered ↓ SAR salicylic acidbiotrophic pathogens ISR jasmonic acidnecrotrophs / insects Broad-spectrum, systemic resistance chitinase • peroxidase • PPO • lignification 03 — In The Field Benefits for broccoli & peas Stronger emergence & seedling vigor Lower root & foliar disease pressure Better abiotic stress resilience Supports yield & quality potential How to use it in existing programs Four entry points across the broccoli & pea calendar from seed to canopy designed to slot into the spray plans, fertigation lines and biocontrol stacks you already run. # Method Rate (% w/v) Primary benefit 01 Seed treatment 0.1 – 0.2 % Early vigor + seed and seedling defense from day zero 02 Root drench 0.2 % Root-zone immunity + transplant establishment 03 Drip irrigation 0.01 – 0.025 % Low-dose continuous rhizosphere support 04 Foliar spray 0.4 – 1.0 % Leaf-level defense priming during disease pressure Formulation Note A defense-eliciting co-input — not a fungicide replacement Position Chitosan AG alongside conventional chemistry to help reduce fungicide and pesticide load and concentration over time. “May partially replace selected applications where field trials, labels and local regulations support it.” Before broad deployment Confirm tank-mix & formulation stability Verify water quality and target pH Validate crop safety on broccoli & peas Check local regulatory & label fit
Chitosan AG: Activando la Defensa en Brócoli y Guisantes
Un clorhidrato de quitosano-oligosacárido hidrosoluble que activa el sistema inmunológico de la propia planta convirtiendo a los cultivos en participantes activos de su propia protección. 01 — LA MOLÉCULA Qué es Chitosan AG Un clorhidrato de quitosano-oligosacárido de bajo peso molecular <3.000 Da, de 2 a 20 unidades de glucosamina. Totalmente hidrosoluble disolución limpia, sin obstrucción de boquillas Absorción rápida por raíces y hojas Compatible en mezcla de tanque con NPK, ácidos húmicos/fúlvicos, bioestimulantes de aminoácidos, Trichoderma, Bacillus 02 — LA CASCADA PTI → SAR + ISR COS-AG (MAMP) ↓ Plant PRR receptor ↓ PTI triggered (pattern-triggered) ↓ SARsalicylic acidbiotrophic pathogens ISRjasmonic acidnecrotrophs / insects Broad-spectrum, systemic resistancechitinase • peroxidase • PPO • lignification 03 — EN EL CAMPO Beneficios para brócoli y guisantes Mayor emergencia y vigor de plántulas Menor presión de enfermedades radiculares y foliares Mejor resiliencia al estrés abiótico Favorece el potencial de rendimiento y calidad Chitosan AG: Activando la Defensa en Brócoli y Guisantes Un clorhidrato de quitosano-oligosacárido hidrosoluble que activa el sistema inmunológico de la propia planta convirtiendo a los cultivos en participantes activos de su propia protección. 01 — LA MOLÉCULA Qué es Chitosan AG Un clorhidrato de quitosano-oligosacárido de bajo peso molecular — <3.000 Da, de 2 a 20 unidades de glucosamina. Totalmente hidrosoluble — disolución limpia, sin obstrucción de boquillas Absorción rápida por raíces y hojas Compatible en mezcla de tanque con NPK, ácidos húmicos/fúlvicos, bioestimulantes de aminoácidos, Trichoderma, Bacillus 02 — LA CASCADA PTI → SAR + ISR COS-AGMAMP ↓ Plant PRRreceptor ↓ PTI triggeredpattern-triggered ↓ SAR salicylic acidbiotrophic pathogens ISR jasmonic acidnecrotrophs / insects Broad-spectrum, systemic resistance chitinase • peroxidase • PPO • lignification 03 — EN EL CAMPO Beneficios para brócoli y guisantes Mayor emergencia y vigor de plántulas Menor presión de enfermedades radiculares y foliares Mejor resiliencia al estrés abiótico Favorece el potencial de rendimiento y calidad Nota al pie: Los resultados dependen del momento de aplicación, el estado del cultivo, la presión de enfermedades y la validación local. Fuentes: Chitosan AG ; Chitosan for plant protection; PMC10792498; PMC10792488.
The Future of Natural Food Preservation
Food Grade Chitosan Oligosaccharide Lactate +60 mV Surface ChargeStrong electrostatic pathogen elimination BSF & Fungal SourcesSustainable Black Soldier Fly & Mushrooms Synthetic ReplacementReplaces Benzoates & Sorbates Food Grade & SafeBiocompatible & Biodegradable The price for Chitosan – FG (Chitosan Oligosaccharide-Lactate) is $130/kg (Poly D-glucosamine) Dosage0.3% TargetFood Pathogens Chitosan Nature’s Preservative As the food industry shifts away from synthetic additives, the search for effective, natural preservation methods has intensified. Chitosan offers a unique biological solution. What is Chitosan? A cationic biopolymer derived from chitin (found in insects, fungi, and crustaceans). It is the second most abundant natural polysaccharide after cellulose. Preservation Pain Points Spoilage: Molds and bacteria cause massive food waste.Consumer Trust: Growing skepticism of synthetic additives.Clean Label: Urgent demand for recognizable ingredients. The Natural Solution A biocompatible, biodegradable antimicrobial that extends shelf life without compromising safety or labeling requirements. Global Challenge 1.3B Tons of food wasted annually, largely due to spoilage. Clean Label Trend Consumers willing to pay more for natural preservatives. What Makes Chitosan – FG Unique? Our Chitosan – Food Grade is engineered with a breakthrough surface charge of +60mV and optimized for ultra-low dosage application, Chitosan FG redefines food preservation standards. +60 mV Surface Charge Industry-leading food-grade cationic zeta potential creates a powerful electrostatic shield. This high positive charge is critical for disrupting negatively charged pathogen membranes upon contact. Dual Bio-Sourcing Sustainably extracted from two renewable streams: Lenzites Betulina or Agaricus Bisporus mushrooms, and Black Soldier Fly (BSF) larvae, ensuring supply chain resilience. Food-Grade & Safe Fully biocompatible, biodegradable, and non-toxic. Compliant with food safety standards (GRAS) as a clean-label alternative to synthetic preservatives like benzoates. Ultra-Low 0.3% Dosage Achieves potent preservation efficacy at just 0.3% concentration by weight. Highly cost-effective for bread, tortillas, and supplements without affecting texture. Source A: Lenzites Mushrooms Source B: Black Soldier Fly Mechanism of Action Electrostatic Antimicrobial Power 01 Electrostatic Binding Positively charged amino groups (NH3+) of Chitonova-60 (+60 mV) are strongly attracted to the negatively charged cell membranes of pathogens. +60 mV 02 Membrane Disruption Interaction alters membrane permeability, causing leakage of intracellular constituents (electrolytes, proteins) leading to rapid cell death. 03 Metal Chelation Binds essential metal ions (Ca²⁺, Mg²⁺) and intracellular components, depriving microbes of nutrients critical for stability and replication. 04 Barrier Formation Forms a breathable polymeric film on the product surface that inhibits oxygen transfer and moisture loss, suffocating aerobic spoilage organisms. Pathogen Chitosan (+ Charge) Pathogen (- Charge) Dual Functionality A single ingredient delivering powerful preservation for foods and detoxification benefits for health supplements. Antimicrobial Action Food Preservation Powered by the +60 mV surface charge, Chitosan – FG acts as a broad-spectrum shield, preventing spoilage and extending shelf life naturally. BacteriaGram (+) & Gram (-) inhibition Molds & YeastsDisrupts fungal cell walls Bio-Film BarrierReduces oxidation & moisture loss Adsorption Matrix Health & Wellness Functions as a potent binding agent in dietary supplements, utilizing electrostatic forces and hydrogen bonding to trap unwanted compounds. MicroplasticsTraps microscopic synthetic particles Dietary FatsBinds lipids preventing absorption Bile AcidsSupports cholesterol management Combined Benefit One biopolymer. Two high-value applications. Scientific Validation Evidence & Efficacy Antimicrobial Potency Structure-Activity Activity is directly linked to cationic charge density and degree of deacetylation (DDA). Kong et al., 2010; Int. J. Mol. Sci. Primary Mechanisms Mode of Action Validates membrane disruption and metal chelation as the primary modes of bacterial inhibition. Rabea et al., 2003; Biomacromolecules Shelf Life Extension Application Proven efficacy in food systems and active packaging to significantly reduce spoilage rates. Coma, 2008; Meat Science Biocompatibility (GRAS) Safety Profile Confirms favorable toxicity profile, biodegradability, and GRAS status for food applications. Kean & Thanou, 2010; Adv. Drug Deliv. Peer-Reviewed Literature Breakthrough Study — 2025 Microplastic Binding & Excretion “Ingestion of chitosan promotes the excretion of polyethylene microplastics… The chitosan group showed increased fecal weight and excretion rate.” Retention-40% Excretion+115% Nature Scientific Reports Liu & Shimizu, 2025 All references available in full bibliography. Comparative Analysis Health Benefits vs. Synthetic Preservatives Chitosan – FG offers a paradigm shift from chemical additives to functional wellness ingredients, addressing modern consumer demands for clean labels. Chitosan – FG Advantages Clean-Label & Natural Recognized as a natural ingredient (GRAS), supporting “preservative-free” marketing claims crucial for premium positioning. Functional Wellness Offers potential gastrointestinal benefits through lipid binding, while being fully biocompatible and biodegradable. Superior Sensory Profile Avoids the bitter, metallic, or chemical aftertaste often associated with high levels of benzoates and sorbates. Synthetic Concerns Risk Factors Sodium Benzoate + Potassium Sorbate + Calcium Propionate Artificial Perception 76% of consumers actively avoid artificial preservatives. “Chemical phobia” is a primary driver in modern purchasing decisions. Regulatory Pressure Increasing scrutiny on Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) levels, particularly for benzoates due to potential benzene formation risks. No Nutritional Value Synthetics exist solely for shelf life extension. Unlike chitosan, they offer zero fiber content or health-promoting properties. “The shift to clean label is not a trend, it’s the new standard for food safety and transparency.” Applications & Formulation Bread, Tortillas & Baked Goods Baked Goods & Tortillas Ideal for high-moisture bakery products prone to rapid spoilage. Provides a natural defense mechanism without altering texture. Target: Common Molds (Aspergillus, Penicillium) Target: Rope Spoilage (Bacillus subtilis) RTE & Snacks Surface coatings for dried fruits, nuts, and snack bars. Recommended Dosage Standard addition by total product weight 0.3% w/w Formulation Calculator Base Calculation 3 g (0.3%) × $135 (or $130 in image unclear) = $0.405 (or $0.39) per 1 kg Dough Standard Loaf 2.1 g × $0.135 = $.2835 per 700g Loaf Tortilla Pack 1.5 g × $0.135 = $.2025 per 500g Pack Dry Blend Direct incorporation into flour mix before hydration. Ideal for breads and dough-based products to ensure uniform distribution. Aqueous Dispersion Dissolved for spray or brush application on surfaces. Best for tortillas and flatbreads to prevent surface mold growth. Financial Overview Cost-Benefit Analysis Base Price$135 /kg Direct Ingredient Cost Cost per kg Product $0.45@ 0.3% Usage Based on $135/kg Chitosan – FG ingredient cost Bread Loaf Standard 700g Unit $0.28per loaf Tortilla Pack Standard 500g Pack $0.20per pack
Chitosan in Oral Care
PREPARED FOR Chitosan Global commercial team, formulators & prospective B2B buyers. SCOPE Carboxymethyl chitosan, chitosan hydrochloride, COS lactate, quaternary chitosan. Scientific evidence, material comparisons, and formulation implications distinguishing what the literature supports from what it merely suggests. CARBOXYMETHYL CHITOSAN • CMCS The strongest oral-care signal in the chitosan family Peer-reviewed work concentrates on two mechanisms: biofilm interference against Streptococcus mutans and biomimetic remineralization of dentin & enamel. MECHANISM 01 Biofilm interference & S. mutans suppression CMCS / amorphous-calcium-phosphate nanocomplexes reduce oral bacterial adherence and biofilm formation on human enamel. Narrative and systematic reviews report that chitosan polymers inhibit S. mutans biofilm formation and acid production the cariogenic mechanism that drives caries onset. MECHANISM 02 Enamel & dentin remineralization platform CMCS stabilizes amorphous calcium phosphate and templates intrafibrillar mineralization of demineralized dentin lesions. Experimental resins releasing CMCS sustain Ca & P delivery, supporting remineralization of early caries positioning CMCS as a fluoride-adjacent or fluoride-alternative platform under study. FORMULATION FIT Water-soluble, mucoadhesive, gel-ready The carboxymethyl substitution gives CMCS true aqueous solubility at near-neutral pH unlike native chitosan, which needs acid activation. That property is what makes CMCS the form most often recommended for toothpaste gels, mouthwashes, and oral-delivery systems. MUSHROOM / FUNGAL SOURCE A positioning advantage — not a clinical one Fungal-source chitosan supports non-shellfish & hypoallergenic labelling, vegan-compatible procurement, and ESG sourcing but is not, on its own, evidence of superior oral-care efficacy. WHAT IT EARNS YOU Defensible label & channel access 01 Non-shellfish, hypoallergenic positioning. Oyster-mushroom mycelium origin removes the crustacean-allergen flag that gates shellfish-derived chitosan in oral products. 02 Vegan-compatible procurement. Zero-animal-input chain qualifies for plant-based and ESG-aligned retail listings. 03 Batch uniformity. Fermentation-controlled mycelium yields a cleaner molecular profile than seasonally-varying shellfish chitin. WHAT IT DOES NOT EARN A claim of superior oral efficacy Published comparative studies in the cited oral-care literature do not isolate fungal vs. shellfish chitosan as the variable driving biofilm inhibition or remineralization outcomes. The mechanistic actors are well-documented degree of deacetylation, molecular weight, salt form, and derivative chemistry (CMCS, COS, quaternary). Source matters for positioning; chemistry matters for performance. Recommendation: sell mushroom-source on label / allergen / sustainability terms keep efficacy claims tied to the derivative, not the origin. FOUR GRADES • ONE DECISION FRAMEWORK Which chitosan belongs in which oral-care formulation ATTRIBUTE DERIVATIVE 01 Carboxymethyl chitosan DERIVATIVE 02 Chitosan hydrochloride DERIVATIVE 03 COS lactate DERIVATIVE 04 Quaternary chitosan CHEMISTRY Anionic / amphoteric carboxymethyl-substituted chitosan HCl-salt of chitosan; cationic in protonated form Lactate salt of low-MW chitosan oligosaccharide (<3,000 Da) Quaternary-ammonium-grafted chitosan — permanent cation SOLUBILITY Water-soluble at near-neutral pH — gel-ready Water-soluble; well suited to mouthwash & rinse vehicles Complete water solubility, neutral–slightly acidic; no acid activation Fully water-soluble across a wide pH range incl. physiological CHARGE BEHAVIOUR pH-dependent; amphoteric — interacts with Ca²⁺ & mineral phases Cationic only when amino groups are protonated (acidic-leaning pH) Cationic; supplier-page +60 mV zeta claim (≥95% DDA, >99% purity) Permanently cationic — activity persists at neutral / physiological pH STRONGEST EVIDENCED ROLE Biofilm interference & remineralization in dentin/enamel models Vehicle / mouthwash & oral-delivery base — water-soluble carrier Cationic membrane-disruption mechanism; product-page claim, not isolated oral RCT Broad-pH antimicrobial systems, hydrogels & surface coatings DEPLOY IN Remineralizing toothpaste gels, anti-caries adjuncts, sensitivity formulations Mouthwashes, rinses, dissolvable oral films, soluble dispersions Clean-label preservative & mild-acid oral vehicles where lactate counterion is preferred Sustained-release antimicrobial coatings, dental-device finishes, hydrogel carriers Decision rule · Match the derivative to the dose form: CMCS → gel/paste · HCl → rinse · COS lactate → mild-acid clean-label · Quaternary → durable cationic surface activity. WHAT THE EVIDENCE ACTUALLY SUPPORTS Two industry claims — graded against the literature Buyers and formulators repeatedly ask about two specific claims. Here is the conservative read. SUPPORTED CLAIM · 01 “Quaternary chitosan delivers permanent cationic, broad-pH antimicrobial activity.” Quaternization grafts a permanent positive charge onto the chitosan backbone, decoupling cationic antimicrobial activity from protonation. The polymer therefore remains active in neutral and physiological pH environments where native chitosan loses charge. Evidence read. Peer-reviewed work on quaternized chitosan (MDPI Polymers 13(15) 2514; PMC9014838) documents superior water solubility, augmented antimicrobial activity, and broad-pH performance the strongest mechanistic basis among the four derivatives reviewed. [5] MDPI Polymers 13(15) 2514 [6] PMC9014838 chitosanglobal.com/quaternary-chitosan… SUPPLIER DATA • USE WITH CARE CLAIM · 02 “COS lactate carries a +60 mV zeta potential driving its antimicrobial mechanism.” The cationic membrane-disruption model is well-established in the broader chitosan literature. The specific “+60 mV” figure, however, originates on the Chitonova-60 FG product page (≥95% DDA, >99% purity, ~+50 to +70 mV stated range). Discipline. Reference the +60 mV value as a supplier specification for the Chitonova-60 FG grade, not as a generalized claim for “chitosan oligosaccharide.” Pair it with cited mechanism literature; do not present it as an independently-validated oral-care RCT endpoint. chitosanglobal.com/product/chitonova-60-fg • mechanism context: PMC4264197, PMC12537699 THE FOUR-LINE TAKE-AWAY Match the derivative to the dose form 01. CMCS Lead with biofilm interference + remineralization. The mechanism most peer-reviewed work actually supports. 02. Mushroom source Sell on label, allergen, vegan, and ESG terms never as a clinical efficacy claim. 03. HCl & COS lactate Water-soluble carriers for rinses & clean-label oral vehicles; +60 mV is a Chitonova-60 FG spec, not a category claim. 04. Quaternary chitosan Best-supported broad-pH, permanently cationic platform surface, coating, and hydrogel applications. DIRECT CONTACT Steve Nice EMAIL & WHATSAPP steve@chitosanglobal.com WhatsApp · 01-423-202-6145
Integrated Chitosan–Biochar Immobilization Platform for PFAS-Impacted Soil and Water Remediation
Technical White Paper – Copyright 2026 Shield Nutraceuticals, Inc./Chitosan Global Contact John Hott: john@chitosanglobal.com The remediation of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) requires robust, multi-stage intervention due to the recalcitrance, mobility, and regulatory stringency associated with these compounds. This technical white paper presents a formal protocol and rationale for an integrated remediation platform utilizing a chitosan–biochar composite. Specifically, this platform leverages chitosan oligosaccharide-hydrochloride (COS-HCl) as a highly reactive, positive-charge supplemental amendment, hybridized with high-surface-area engineered biochar. The proposed amendment specification utilizes COS-HCl with a degree of deacetylation (DDA) of 98%, a molecular weight of 3 kDa, and a surface charge of approximately +71 mV. It is critical to state that COS-HCl is proposed herein as a supplemental amendment designed to be stabilized onto a biochar matrix rather than a standalone remedy. When integrated correctly, this platform acts as a critical component within a broader treatment train that includes source delineation, hotspot excavation, hydraulic containment, and point-of-entry guard beds. Grant Review Value Proposition This integrated platform directly addresses fundamental gaps in current PFAS remediation practice: Source-Mass Reduction: Stabilizes leachable PFAS in the vadose and saturated zones, driving down long-term mass flux. Lower Mass Flux: Reduces the loading burden on downstream water-treatment systems, extending the life of costly Granular Activated Carbon (GAC) and Ion Exchange (IX) resins. Renewable Feedstocks: Utilizes naturally derived biopolymers (chitosan) and carbon-sequestering biochar, improving the sustainability and lifecycle footprint of the remedial action. Pilotable Implementation: Integrates smoothly into conventional soil mixing and pump-and-treat frameworks without requiring unproven field equipment. Basis for the Integrated Remedy According to the Interstate Technology and Regulatory Council (ITRC) [8], PFAS remedial design must adopt a tiered logic. The primary directive is the protection of drinking water and human receptors. Once points-of-exposure are secured, source control and mass-flux reduction are required to mitigate long-term liability. Field-implemented full-scale technologies for PFAS-impacted liquids are currently dominated by sequestration strategies, specifically GAC, IX, and Reverse Osmosis (RO). However, these technologies face profound limitations. Short-chain PFAS (e.g., PFBS, PFHxA) experience rapid breakthrough in GAC systems. High concentrations of naturally occurring organic matter (NOM) or total organic carbon (TOC) prematurely foul both GAC and IX media. Furthermore, spent media require carefully controlled disposal, thermal reactivation, or incineration to prevent secondary environmental release. By implementing an upstream chitosan-biochar immobilization step, the proposed architecture curtails the mass flux entering these conventional systems. Product and Amendment Rationale Chitosan, derived from chitin, is a unique biopolymer possessing a primary positive electrostatic charge an attribute highly favorable for binding anionic PFAS. Chitosan Global describes chitosan as a potent binder capable of integration with biochar and microbial systems for comprehensive soil and water remediation . The specific material proposed for this protocol, Chitosan Oligosaccharide Hydrochloride (Mushroom-derived), is highly refined for water-treatment applications. According to the manufacturer’s Certificate of Analysis, the input specifications include: Purity: 98.5% Viscosity: 1.3 cS (indicative of low molecular weight) pH: 3.40 (1% solution in distilled water) Solubility: Fully soluble in water (9.89% in DM water) with minimal insoluble matter (0.10%). Why COS-HCl Is Supplemental Rather Than Standalone While highly pure, soluble COS-HCl provides exceptional charge density (+71 mV), excellent wetting properties, and maximum interfacial contact with PFAS anions, its inherent water solubility is a liability for in situ deployment if used alone. In a standalone application, soluble chitosan would be susceptible to rapid groundwater washout. Therefore, it must be deployed as a supplemental amendment. By thoroughly blending the soluble COS-HCl into an engineered biochar matrix during application, the biochar provides a high-surface-area, stable physical scaffold. The chitosan functionalizes the biochar surface, yielding a resilient composite that resists washout while actively capturing PFAS through complementary electrostatic and hydrophobic mechanisms. Evidence Base from Scientific Literature (2020–Present) The field performance expectations for this platform are derived conservatively from recent peer-reviewed studies investigating integrated chitosan-based adsorbents: Modified Quaternized Chitosan Hydrogels (MQCGs) [5]: A 2025 study demonstrated that surface-modified quaternized chitosan achieved complete removal of long-chain PFAS (PFOS, PFOA) and >99.9% removal of short-chain PFAS (PFBS, PFHxA) at 500 μg/L concentrations. Adsorption of >98% PFOS occurred in <30 minutes. The material was effective across a wide pH window (3 to 12), exhibiting a high zeta potential (+44.8 mV). Furthermore, it was regenerated for 10 cycles using a simple 0.025 M NaCl solution while maintaining ~98% efficiency. The mechanisms identified included electrostatic, hydrophobic, and physical channel interactions. Chitosan-Coated Covalent Organic Frameworks (COF@CS) [6]: A 2024 study evaluating a chitosan-coated framework recorded a maximum PFOA capacity of 2.8 mmol/g at pH 5, with a rapid adsorption rate of 6.2 mmol/g/h. The composite was successfully regenerated for 5 cycles utilizing 70% ethanol and 1 wt% NaCl. The study proved that combining quaternary amines with protonated amino groups from chitosan drives aggressive electrostatic adsorption, reinforcing the necessity of composite integration. Chitosan-Modified Magnetic Biochar (CS_MBC) [7]: A 2025 assessment of chitosan-modified biochar found an optimal 1:1 chitosan loading ratio yielded ~94% PFOA removal. While batch Langmuir capacity was extremely high (~517 mg/g), fixed-bed column experiments demonstrated a practical capacity of 39.63 mg/g. The optimal operational window was pH 4 at a 60-minute contact time. This study emphasizes the need for conservative scale-up, as dynamic column capacities are typically an order of magnitude lower than batch isotherms. Proposed Remedial Architecture The integrated remedy employs a treatment train methodology to address source zones, flux pathways, and point-of-exposure vulnerabilities. SourceDelineationHotspotExcavationAmendment CellCOS-HCl + BiocharHydraulicControl / P&TWater Eq.& Solids RemovalChitosan-BiocharPolishing VesselGAC / IXGuard BedCompliantDischargeExtracted Porewater & Groundwater Routing. Table 1. Comparison of Technology Roles within the Treatment Train Technology Primary Role PFAS Action Excavation Source Zone Hotspot Removal Physical removal of gross mass; off-site destruction/landfill. Capping / Containment Hydraulic Isolation Prevents infiltration; limits leachate generation. Chitosan-Biochar Amendment Vadose / Saturated Zone Stabilization In-situ immobilization reducing mass flux; binds long & short chains. Hydraulic Control (P&T) Plume Management Extracts mobile mass; captures escaping flux. Primary Treatment (e.g., RO/Foam) Bulk Liquid Treatment Separates/concentrates high-level aqueous PFAS. Chitosan-Biochar Polishing Pre-Treatment / Polishing Mitigates organic fouling; removes residual low-level PFAS. GAC / IX Guard Bed Point of Compliance Final effluent polishing to strict non-detect regulatory standards. Ideal Step-by-Step Protocol for
Motherferment For Kitchen, Facility, and Food-Contact Cleaning
Patent Pending Technology • Food-Grade • Practically Non-Toxic The Foodservice Cleaning Problem The foodservice industry relies on cleaning products that: Emit harmful VOCs Leave chemical Residues Require PPE Trigger respiratory issues among staff Pose cross-contamination risks Are unsafe around food contact surfaces Damage indoor air quality in dining areas No cleaning system today satisfies the needs of food-contact safety, worker safety, and operational efficiency simultaneously. The Hidden Crisis in Foodservice Cleaning Occupational Health Risks: Janitors, kitchen staff have a 54% higher risk of asthma compared to the general population Long-term exposure to cleaning chemicals is associated with: Increased lung cancer risk COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) Declines in lung function A long-term respiratory cohort study found: Sustained use of conventional cleaners can cause lung damage comparable to smoking a pack of cigarettes a day. These are your workers. These are your liabilities. The Unknown Threat: “Green” Cleaners Are Not Safer York University / Canadian Environmental Law Association Study (2022) Findings: Many green cleaners emitted more VOCs than their petrochemical counterparts Several contained undisclosed hazardous chemicals “Green” products emitted carcinogens and respiratory irritants equal to or greater than traditional cleaners Conclusion: “Green” labels do not guarantee reduced health or environmental harm. This is the problem the entire industry missed. The Market Has No Safe Option Until Now For 70 years, the industry has cycled between: Petrochemical Cleaners Effective But toxic, corrosive, and highly hazardous “Green” Cleaners Marketed as safer But often just diluted petrochemistry Still VOC-heavy Still biologically harmful Motherferment creates an entirely NEW CATEGORY: Biofermented Post-Toxic Cleaning Not petrochemical Not greenwashed Fundamentally different The Shift to Post-Toxic Cleaning: Why US Foods Should Care Restaurants, cafeterias, hospitals, schools and hospitality clients now demand: Safer indoor air Category 4 – Practically non-toxic cleaning options Less chemical odor in dining areas Safer produce-washing solutions Reduced worker injury risk ESG-forward supply options Fewer SKUs and lower operational complexity Motherferment gives US Foods a category that no competitor can offer Introducing a Completely New Cleaning Architecture Zero Petrochemicals ✓ Food-Grade Safe ✓ Fermentation Based Zero Indoor Air Toxicity No Compromises No VOCs No Hormone Disruption No Toxic Scents No Carcinogens No Skin Irritation 3 SKUs Replace 40+ Conventional Chemicals 1. Motherferment™ All-Surface Concentrate One cleaner for virtually every surface. Glass, mirrors & stainless steel Counters & food-prep surfaces Bathrooms & fixtures Floors & walls Upholstery & equipment Kitchens & produce wash Hand cleaning Replaces dozens of everyday cleaning chemicals with one concentrate. 2. Motherferment™ Floor Wax Remover / Stripper Removes floor finishes without harsh solvents Low-odor application Reduced worker exposure Compatible with commercial floor maintenance programs 3. Motherferment™ Antimicrobial Spray Rapid antimicrobial performance Patent-pending biofermented technology Practically non-toxic formulation Designed for high-touch surface protection Operational Impact Replace 40+ specialty chemicals Simplify purchasing and inventory Reduce training requirements Lower storage and compliance burden Standardize cleaning across every facility Whole-Building Coverage One Platform. Every Space. Motherferment creates a single cleaning architecture that can be deployed throughout nearly every area of a commercial facility. Coverage Areas Offices Schools & Daycare Restrooms & Kitchens Breakrooms Fitness & Wellness Centers Hospitality & Hotels Manufacturing & Industrial Facilities Warehouses & Support Areas Benefits One chemistry across the building Fewer SKUs to manage Consistent cleaning protocols Reduced training time Improved worker safety Better indoor air quality Lower total cost of ownership The Result One platform. One supplier. One cleaning standard for the entire building. Food Safety Advantage Built on Food-Grade Biofermented Technology Motherferment is designed for environments where food safety and worker safety must exist together. Key Advantages Practically non-toxic Zero petrochemical residues No harmful VOC emissions Safe around food-contact surfaces No lingering chemical taste or odor Free from quaternary ammonium compounds (Quats) Ideal For Restaurants Food manufacturing Schools & universities Hospitals Senior living facilities Hotels & hospitality Catering operations Retail foodservice Safe enough for produce washing. Powerful enough for facility-wide cleaning. Worker Safety Transformation Eliminate the Leading Causes of Cleaning-Related Injuries Motherferment helps reduce worker exposure to hazards commonly associated with conventional cleaning chemicals. Reduced Risks Chemical burns Respiratory irritation Asthma triggers Skin sensitization Long-term inhalation exposure Build a Better Workforce Organizations benefit from cleaning systems that help create: Safer workplaces Healthier employees Higher employee satisfaction Lower insurance exposure Easier hiring and retention Reduced absenteeism The future of facility cleaning is cleaner, safer, and smarter. Why This Helps US Foods Win A New Competitive Advantage Motherferment allows US Foods to offer customers more than cleaning chemicals, it delivers a safer operating model. Customers Are Looking For Better indoor air quality Lower VOC exposure Safer food-contact cleaning Protection for children, seniors, and sensitive populations Stronger ESG performance Simplified facility maintenance Reduced operational and liability risk Business Value for US Foods Differentiate from every traditional chemical supplier Expand value-added solutions Strengthen long-term customer relationships Support ESG and sustainability initiatives Create a category competitors cannot easily replicate Motherferment doesn’t compete in the traditional cleaning market. it creates the next generation of commercial cleaning. A Safer, Cleaner, Lower-Risk Building Key Benefits for Building Owners Eliminates nearly all hazardous chemical classifications Significantly reduces VOC emissions and persistent odors Supports ESG, LEED®, and WELL® building objectives Protects surfaces, finishes, and long-term asset value Reduces complaints in high-occupancy and sensitive environments Creates healthier indoor spaces for occupants and staff Better buildings begin with safer chemistry. The Science Behind the Breakthrough Independently Validated University of Florida Biosurfactant performance Pathogen control evaluation Eurofins Laboratories Cleaning efficacy Product safety Performance verification What the Testing Demonstrates Cleaning performance equal to or better than conventional chemical cleaners No petroleum-derived ingredients No palm oil No added preservatives Balanced pH that helps protect surfaces and finishes No intentionally added carcinogenic or endocrine-disrupting ingredients Scientific validation for both performance and safety. A New Growth Platform for US Foods What This Creates for US Foods A proprietary Post-Toxic Cleaning™ category A differentiated facility-wide cleaning platform A premium ESG-focused offering Increased customer retention through safer workplace solutions Expansion beyond foodservice into total facility care A defensible market position competitors cannot easily replicate Simplified Operations = Lower Costs