#USA #Hiperbaric #Food Innovation #Hawai'i #Wahiawā

Hawai'i to Host the First High Pressure Processing Summit

Leeward Community College (LCC) is taking a bold initiative by organizing Hawai'i's first-ever High Pressure Processing (HPP) Summit, scheduled for July 17 at the Wahiawā Value-Added Product Development Center (WVAPDC). This event aims to bring together local producers, food entrepreneurs, scientists, and industry leaders to explore the future of food preservation using HPP technology.

The Importance of HPP Technology

High Pressure Processing is a revolutionary method employed in food preservation, utilizing intense water pressure to eliminate harmful microorganisms and pathogens while maintaining the food’s freshness and nutritional value. This process not only enhances food safety but also extends shelf life, allowing for minimally processed, clean-label foods without preservatives. Attendees of the summit will have the opportunity to engage with expert panels, live demonstrations, and networking opportunities to unravel the transformative benefits of HPP.

Chris Bailey, the manager of WVAPDC, expressed enthusiasm for the summit, stating, "As the only center in Hawai'i with an HPP machine, we are excited to share how this technology can transform the food production landscape in our region. This event aims to empower our local food producers with the necessary tools and knowledge to elevate their offerings for both local and global markets."

Partnership with Hiperbaric

The summit is carried out in collaboration with Hiperbaric, a global leader in HPP technology. Rob Peregrina, the executive director of Hiperbaric USA, noted, "We're thrilled to partner with Leeward Community College to highlight our cutting-edge HPP technology. This summit not only showcases our commitment to food innovation, safety, and sustainability but also supports Hawai'i's food entrepreneurs in expanding their reach."

What to Expect at the Summit

The event's agenda includes sessions on HPP-ready packaging, food safety protocols, regulatory compliance, and success stories from local food entrepreneurs who have effectively scaled their businesses using support from WVAPDC. Participants can expect an impressive lineup of speakers, including prominent figures in food science, entrepreneurship, and policy, such as:

• - Chris Bailey, WVAPDC Manager
• - Donovan M. Dela Cruz, Hawai'i State Senator
• - Dr. Mario González-Angulo, Hiperbaric HPP Applications Manager
• - Dr. Carlos Peñaloza, Leeward Community College Chancellor
• - Daniela Soto Castro, Hiperbaric HPP Applications Specialist
• - Anthony Zapata, Hiperbaric Business Development Manager
• - Hailey Zhou, WVAPDC Product Development Manager

Carlos Peñaloza reinforced the significance of the summit, stating, "By collaborating with leaders like Hiperbaric, we empower our local innovators to compete on a global scale and contribute to building a resilient food economy in Hawai'i."

Economic Development and Ticket Information

The summit is a key milestone for enhancing Hawai'i's food industry and fostering economic development. State Senator Donovan M. Dela Cruz emphasized that, "This event is vital for our commitment to regional economic development and enables our local businesses to compete effectively on an international stage."

Tickets for the summit are available at different rates, including a $100 Early Bird Special until June 15, transitioning to a General Admission fee of $200 from June 16 to July 16. All attendees must register individually at leeward.hawaii.edu/hppsummit.

About WVAPDC

Established in 2024, the Wahiawā Value-Added Product Development Center operates in partnership with the State of Hawai'i to bolster the local economy through the development of value-added food products. LCC offers educational programs, product development consultations, and access to state-of-the-art resources, enabling local entrepreneurs to thrive.

Please visit the WVAPDC’s website for more information and updates about upcoming events and initiatives.

About Hiperbaric

Recognized as a leader in high pressure technology, Hiperbaric designs and manufactures HPP equipment widely used across the food industry. The company is committed to reliability and customer satisfaction, with installations worldwide across diverse food categories. For more information, visit www.hiperbaric.com.