The Green Cosmetic Preservatives

The cosmetic industry is looking for green solutions to replace the chemical antimicrobial preservatives commonly used in their products (paraben). The Plant Antibiotic Program at Lethbridge College has unique plant extracts of which some have the desired antibiotic properties against bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus. The Microbiology Laboratory at Lethbridge College will establish two key technologies to develop a natural preservative from plant extracts. This technology and the training opportunities will support the needs of the growing Alberta cosmetic industries, public interest in natural products, and continue to place Lethbridge College students at the forefront of new commercial technologies.