Eastern Freshaura Giving produce an extra life

Our venture is innovative because we address two major global challenges—food waste and plastic pollution—with a single, locally sourced solution. Unlike synthetic coatings or plastic packaging, we upcycle agricultural and seafood waste (such as snail shells, crab shells, and other crustacean byproducts) to create 100% natural, biodegradable coatings for fresh produce. These coatings mimic the protective benefits of plastic—slowing ripening, reducing moisture loss, and inhibiting microbial growth—while being entirely compostable and safe for consumption.

What sets us apart is our circular economy approach: instead of relying on expensive or imported materials, we use readily available waste streams in Ghana, converting them into high-value, shelf-life-extending technology. The bioactive compounds in crustacean shells (like chitosan) have natural antimicrobial and barrier properties, making them ideal for food preservation.