Strella Biotech Wins Startup Lab Pitch Competition During GS1 Connect: Digital Edition
GS1 US announced that Strella Biotech, a sensor technology startup that can predict the maturity of produce and help reduce food waste, has won the $10,000 first-place grand prize in the third-annual GS1 US Startup Lab Pitch Competition.
Magnomer, a producer of magnetizable inks for enhanced recycling, won the $4,000 second-place prize, and MeCycle, a data-rich consumer recycling platform that helps prevent beverage bottles and cans from being discarded in landfills or oceans, was awarded the $2,000 third-place prize, according to a news release.
The winners were announced at GS1 Connect: Digital Edition, a virtual conference experience held June 8-10.
The GS1 US Startup Lab Pitch Competition showcased emerging technologies that could have a significant impact on commerce and supply chains, according to the release.
Eight startups with products that were launched between June 2018 and May 2021 were selected to present their technology capabilities to a panel of judges composed of technology experts from leading companies via a remote platform, the release said, and finalists were evaluated on their solutions’ innovation, usability and potential societal impact, how GS1 Standards were incorporated and their overall presentation of the product. “Using GS1 Standards as a foundation, these startups have created innovative solutions that contribute to sustainability and circular economy in truly meaningful ways,” Melanie Nuce, senior vice president, corporate development, GS1 US, said in the release “In recognizing all contestants’ unique capabilities, GS1 US is reaffirming our commitment to supporting the startup community and casting a spotlight on solutions that could one day help the supply chain reduce waste and perform more efficiently.”
The winner of the competition, Strella Biotech, offers Internet of Everything sensors that monitor packer storage rooms and provide inventory sequences based on maturity so the packer can distribute the most mature fruit to the supply chain first.
Second-prize winner Magnomer, according to the release, is an advanced materials startup leveraging computer vision and emerging data carriers through magnetic ink technology that allows consumer brands to design packaging for recyclability without sacrificing manufacturability.
Third-prize winner MeCycle developed an app that allows consumers to scan plastic, aluminum or glass containers and obtain detailed recycling information, including recycling incentives such as bottle deposits, the release said.
