"We want to ensure that our grow space is kept sanitized and clean of all microbials and contaminants. With such a high-value crop as medicinal cannabis, we felt that every precaution is needed," says Ryan Blakeway of East Coast Farms. The South African company grows in three multi-span tunnel greenhouses, totaling 900 m2, using the ProGuard technology for air sanitization. "The technology was highly recommended by other growers that we trusted and we are very pleased with the results," Ryan says.
Air sanitization
East Coast Farms' three greenhouses are sectionalized with ISO panels that are completely sealed. "We use individual HVAC systems including CO2, as well as Fluence LED lights. We're able to close the blackout curtains and run indoor or open the curtains for sun and LED. We also have a state-of-the-art irrigation system with pressure compensating drippers to allow for precision high-frequency fertigation," Ryan says.
In each tunnel, there are 8 ProGuard units. "We felt that the ProGuard technology was a great preventative and help in achieving the expected level of cleanliness. Since using the technology we have not seen any contamination issues in our grow space and we feel that it is certainly from a combination of the ProGuard technology with solid SOPs for cleaning and sanitation," Ryan says. "Obviously, having zero contamination issues has helped keep our yield up and ProGuard has been a big reason for that. We are very pleased by the results."
Proper air sanitization is necessary, as the cannabis testing requirements are strict, Ryan explains. "We are held to standards by the international cannabis market as well as the international medical market. All of our products are cultivated for the export market only and our facility is GMP certified. Therefore, testing is very strict, as product can only be exported when it is completely free of microbials or contaminants as well as needing to be of high quality."
Mike D'Ambra, Founder of Innovative Solutions, explains that ProGuard uses a 'Pro-Active' sanitization process designed to help prevent contamination problems and allow growers to maximize product quality and differentiate themselves in the market. "As the cannabis industry matures, flower quality will become the key differentiator between brands. Our ProGuard air and surface sanitization technology is designed to help growers prevent mold and mildew outbreaks, eliminating the need for post-harvest microbial remediation. ProGuard is specifically engineered for high-density, high-humidity environments, making it ideal for large greenhouse facilities like East Coast Farms."
"With our 'set-it-and-forget-it' technology, growers can enjoy peace of mind knowing that microbial pathogens are being continuously reduced, allowing them to focus their time and energy on improving yields and quality," Mike adds.
The South African market
Currently, the international market is growing at a rapid pace. According to Ryan, this has allowed South Africa to become one of the top emerging markets. "We are well placed to become one of the top major players in the industry, both with our geographical location and weather conditions as well as with our ability to produce top quality product at a reasonable price. We just need to focus on proving that our products' quality and consistency are up there with the other top international players," he says.
Overall, East Coast Farms is excited about the future. "Our goal is to continue to expand and grow our business and continually evolve to meet the rising demand for quality cannabis."
For more information:
East Coast Farms
www.eastcoastfarms.co.za
Innovative Solutions
Instagram: @proguardofficial
www.innovative-solutions.org