Medan, September 5, 2026 — The CollaCel Team from the Food Technology Study Program, Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Sumatera Utara (FP USU), has successfully advanced as one of the TOP 10 Finalists of the 2026 Indonesian Agricultural Student Innovation Week (PIMPI), held at IPB University.
The team, consisting of Khairyah Hutagalung (team leader), Nayla Alfina, and Dea Novita Fitrianti, under the supervision of Dr. Ridwansyah, S.T.P., M.Si., presented an innovation entitled “COLLASHIELD: Smart Active Packaging Based on Fish Collagen and Corn Nanocellulose to Reduce Tomato Food Loss” under the Food Security and Climate Adaptation subtheme.
COLLASHIELD is an innovative smart active packaging system based on fish collagen, corn nanocellulose, and key lime peel extract. The innovation was developed to help inhibit microbial activity, reduce water loss and weight loss, and extend the shelf life of tomatoes.
In addition to focusing on reducing food loss, COLLASHIELD utilizes fisheries and agricultural waste as value-added raw materials. This approach supports the implementation of a circular bioeconomy and aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 2: Zero Hunger, SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure, and SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production.
As one of the 10 finalists, the CollaCel Team participated in the PIMPI 2026 final round from September 4–7, 2026, at the IPB University Dramaga Campus.
This achievement is a source of pride for FP USU and demonstrates students’ contribution to developing innovative, sustainable, and locally sourced food innovations.
We hope the CollaCel Team will perform at its best, achieve outstanding results, and be named the top finalist of PIMPI 2026. Best of luck, and may you continue to bring pride to Universitas Sumatera Utara!