Sussex-based small business Jolly Scrummy Limited has used one of the new Government Innovation Vouchers to work with the University of Brighton to improve its totally-organic production methods.

Business owner Tracy Atchison was awarded a £5,000 Voucher from the Technology Strategy Board to enable her to work with an expert to test and verify her method of producing apple-based savoury herb jellies using only organic ingredients.

Achieving product consistency throughout the production year using different apple varieties was critical in allowing the business to grow.

Tracy worked with scientists Dr Peter Cragg and Dr Flavia Fucassi from the University of Brighton’s School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences. Their findings highlighted that a waste apple-juice product which was available from the apple supplier could provide just as good – if not better – pectin levels than using the whole apples. She said: “In other words, an economically and environmentally-superior option.

“It has been so exciting for me to work with research scientists at the University of Brighton. Their work will enable me to maintain my totally-organic production methods as the business expands.”

For more information about Innovation Vouchers from the Technology Strategy Board please contact Shona Campbell on 01273 642435  or 07967 676061
 
http://www.brighton.ac.uk/ccp/news/innovation-vouchers-to-businesses-to-fund-first-interaction-with/