Zapopan, Jalisco, June 26, 2025. Preserving food in optimal conditions without resorting to chemical additives has been one of the most complex historical challenges in the food industry.
In response to this problem, the Dr. Friné Velázquez, dean of the School of Hospitality (ESDAI) at the Universidad Panamericana in Guadalajara, developed an innovative solution based on nanotechnology: natural packaging that prolongs the freshness of food without compromising health.
His research was recognized internationally by the San Antonio Catholic University of Murcia (UCAM), highlighting its impact on health, sustainability, and food technology.
A natural alternative for food preservation
For centuries, humanity has resorted to methods such as salting, refrigeration, and chemical preservatives to keep food in good condition. However, Dr. Velázquez proposed an innovative and natural solution: encapsulating active compounds from oregano and thyme using nanotechnology to develop a preservative with no harmful effects on health.
This three-year research project takes two elements that have preservative properties but which, due to their natural characteristics, could not previously be used to preserve food. This is where nanotechnology and biotechnology come in.
The technology developed encapsulates essential oils in a molecule that protects them from oxidation, air, and temperature variations, eliminating their smell and taste without compromising their preservative properties.
Recognition of research with social impact
The award granted by UCAM recognizes high-impact research that combines scientific innovation, international projection, practical utility, and social benefit. The project was evaluated by an independent committee that analyzed factors such as the type of publication, citations, and social relevance.
“The award is given to high-impact research. You have to meet certain requirements such as internationalization, positively impacting society, and having a sustainability component and helping humanity as well,"said Dr. Friné Velázquez.
Challenges that signify achievement
During the development of the project, Dr. Velázquez faced significant challenges, especially in technical infrastructure. Even so, she managed to adapt her methodologies and obtained two Mexican patents related to packaging and the encapsulation process.
"The main challenge I faced here was that I didn't have certain equipment in Mexico, so I often I had to adapt methodologies to what I had at hand and adapt all the measurements and the process,"recalls Dr. Friné Velázquez.
After reviewing the documentation and background information mentioned above, a special committee conducts a more extensive deliberation to determine the relevance of the recognition.
His line of research belongs to the field of Health Sciences, specifically in applied nutrition, and was one of the few award-winning research projects in its category.
Health above all else
Dr. Friné Velázquez's goal has always been focused on improving the health of those who are exposed daily to the chemical preservatives that proliferate in our food.
“I had a clear line. I always wanted to avoid consuming chemical additives because I know how harmful they are to the body, from children to the elderly, and when you add up everything we consume over the years, it amounts to a considerable amount of additives."he said.
Patents that change the world
The significance of this technological advancement developed by Dr. Friné Velázquez resulted in two patents.
“We have obtained two patents and are currently seeking to transfer this technology to a company in the food sector that can implement it, with the aim of bringing this method and packaging to the market in order to preserve food without the need for chemical additives," explained the researcher.
This international recognition of Dr. Friné Velázquez reaffirms commitment of the Universidad Panamericana high-impact research, aimed at social welfare and sustainable development.
Through projects such as this, the university strengthens its commitment to academic and scientific excellence, promoting innovative solutions that respond to contemporary challenges from an ethical, human, and transcendent perspective.
Learn more about ESDAI: https://www.up.edu.mx/educacion-universidad-esdai/
