R&D - Project

BEFRESH Completed

Gentle technologies for the sustainable stabilization of high value-added carbonated beverages.

The BeFresh project develops high-pressure processing and sustainable packaging to stabilize natural carbonated beverages without preservatives, while preserving their quality.

Colorful soft drinks served with ice
Orange slice in sparkling water with bubbles

The BEFRESH project addresses the growing demand in Belgium for more natural, functional, and preservative-free beverages. It proposes a new high-pressure processing (HPP) approach to stabilize carbonated beverages (beers and lemonade) while preserving their microbiological and sensory quality, without resorting to pasteurization or the addition of preservatives.

This technology would also reduce energy needs and minimize resource consumption. The project includes the study and selection of suitable packaging, particularly flexible options, capable of preserving aroma and effervescence while limiting oxidation.

In summary, BEFRESH aims to combine innovation, naturalness, sustainability, and quality to meet the new expectations of consumers and beverage producers.