The University of Veterinary Medicine contributes to animal healthcare in Hungary through another innovative investment. In collaboration with Sorapharm Ltd. and Spesalus Ltd., the university aims to optimize using hyperpure chlorine dioxide (ClO2) disinfectant for veterinary purposes. This initiative, in line with international guidelines, aims to reduce the use of antibiotics in livestock treatment, thereby supporting the production of high-quality and healthy food in the country.

One of the major global challenges of the future is sustainable food production, posing a significant task for professionals in Hungary as well. The industry seeks solutions to avoid the threat of antibiotic resistance, ensuring the delivery of healthy and high-quality meat to tables. Despite a declining trend in live animal slaughter in Hungary, according to data from the Agricultural Economics Institute between 2019 and 2022, the collaboration between the University of Veterinary Medicine Budapest and Sorapharm Ltd. may result in a new product that enhances food safety and productivity in the country.

After years of research and development, Sorapharm Ltd. has embarked on the production of one of the most promising air disinfectants, hyperpure chlorine dioxide (ClO2). Chlorine dioxide is highly effective against viruses, bacteria, and fungi, including bacterial biofilms. The compound is gaseous at room temperature but dissolves well in water, making it suitable for destroying airborne viruses and bacteria (infectious bioaerosols) as a very fine particle-sized aerosol. The developed technology can produce small chlorine dioxide aerosol droplets that float similarly to bioaerosols, making it effective in significantly reducing the spread of pathogens in the air. The result is particularly significant on livestock farms, as reducing the use of antibiotics on the farm by combating infectious diseases is a crucial step in preventing antibiotic resistance. This is a priority from the perspectives of public health, veterinary medicine, and the economy.

The collaborating partners hope that by optimizing the use of the disinfectant for veterinary purposes, a product will emerge in the market that represents progress in the fight against significant diseases such as avian influenza and African swine fever.

The agreement between the parties was signed on January 15, 2024, at the University of Veterinary Medicine Budapest.