The demand, regulations and integration of antimicrobial technology

Hannah Mullane, content executive, BioCote, discusses the demand, regulations and successful integration of antimicrobial technology.

In the ever-evolving landscape of healthcare, product innovation is constantly evolving with challenges that demand creativity, adaptability, and resilience from industry innovators. The journey from concept to end-product is filled with obstacles from navigating regulations to keeping up with technological advancements. It is this shared experience among innovators that invites the potential solution of antimicrobial technology, offering a promising response to the demands of the transformative landscape.  

Identifying innovation hurdles within healthcare

Innovation in healthcare products is an intricate balance between creativity and practicality. Regulatory complexities pose a significant obstacle, requiring innovators to navigate a great deal of guidelines. Marešová et al. (2020) elaborate on the comprehensive medical device development life cycle outlining five phases: opportunity and risk analysis, concept and feasibility, verification and validation, product launch preparation, and product launch assessment. This study emphasises the need for a comprehensive understanding of regulatory landscapes for successful product development.

Market demands and consumer expectations

Understanding the needs of healthcare consumers and meeting market demands is an ongoing challenge. Consumer behaviour is increasingly being influenced by health aspects. From the consumers standpoint, the importance of a product extends beyond its price, the quality of the products is equally important (Czeczotko, 2022). 

To actively respond to this changing landscape, product developers must gain insights into the mindset of the consumer, understanding their preferences and priorities to create healthcare items that hold significance for the end-user and aligns with the healthcare settings’ willingness to invest in providing optimal care for their patients.

Regulatory compliance

Healthcare products, especially those designed for patient use, must meet regulatory standards. BioCote streamlines the approval process with antimicrobial technology compliant with global regulations, ensuring a smoother entry into healthcare supply chains. BioCote holds key regulatory registrations, including the Biocidal Products Regulation (BPR), Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and Federal Insecticide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA). BioCote is proven safe for direct contact with food and water, given its Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) approval. BioCote antimicrobial additives are globally recognised for its effective additives and regulatory compliance. With substantial reports proving they are not toxic to the environment. For example, they do not need to be registered under the Toxic Substance Control Act in the USA. 

Regulatory updates

BioCote prioritises adherence to regulations and stay vigilant about legal updates. BioCote have proactively addressed the challenges posed by the UK’s departure from the EU and the subsequent update on navigating UK REACH regulations post-Brexit, which introduced complexities for product innovators across the UK. BioCote partners benefit from regulatory and chemical support from our technical team, ensuring that their products, compounds, or applications comply with suitable regulations.

Product innovation with BioCote antimicrobial technology 

As innovation takes centre stage, the integration of antimicrobial technology emerges as a potential game-changer. Antimicrobial technology refers to a range of solutions designed to continuously inhibit the growth of microorganisms. This technology encompasses silver ions that can be integrated into products and surfaces throughout healthcare settings. 

Enhancing product longevity

Antimicrobial solutions play a pivotal role in extending the lifespan of healthcare products. Silver ions break down microorganisms responsible for premature material degradation, also known as biodeterioration. This process prevents compromised structural integrity, leading to the creation of products that surpass the expectations of the end-user.

Combating staining and unpleasant odours

Beyond product protection, antimicrobial technology continuously combats both gram positive and negative bacteria, fungi, and other microbes, which are responsible for staining and odours. Microbial degradation or decomposition of organic matter results in alterations to colour, texture, and odour development. BioCote assists businesses in creating products that not only last longer, but significantly contribute to the visual and aromatic aspects surfaces and items. By integrating this technology, developers have the opportunity to elevate the overall user experience, creating products that stand out in terms of both performance and sensory appeal. 

Successful integration of antimicrobial technology

Examining real-world examples of healthcare products and surfaces that have successfully incorporated antimicrobial technology provides insights that confirm their effectiveness. BioCote has led practical case studies that showcase improved durability, performance, and positive outcomes that offer valuable insights for product developers. BioCote technology has been proven to reduce microorganisms by 96% in a hospital, and 95% in a nursing home. 

The 2021 NHS National Standards of Healthcare Cleanliness update places responsibility for cleanliness on employees adhering to a strict schedule. However, insights from cleaning professionals reveal potential oversights, stating that patient-related equipment may “fall through the gaps”. This highlights the shift in modern cleaning methods. Through antimicrobial technology integration, developers can assure healthcare settings of elevated cleaning standards, as the technology is designed to reduce microbial counts on surfaces from within the product itself.

Why Collaborate?

Navigating the balance between innovation and compliance requires thoughtful consideration. According to Harvard Business Review, managers often view compliance restrictions and resource constraints as primary barriers to innovation (Acar et al., 2019). This discussion underscores the importance of successful innovators harmonising their concepts with a keen understanding of regulatory landscapes.

Innovation thrives within collaborative environments where expertise addresses challenges. The cooperation between product developers and antimicrobial experts propels success through the exchange of insights with innovators and product manufacturers, creating unique solutions. While the benefits of antimicrobial technology are evident, developers must carefully consider 

integration factors.