Osprey Biotechnics, a developer of microbial products for environmental, industrial and agricultural applications, has temporarily pivoted some operations in its Sarasota, Florida, facility for a “greater good” effort — manufacturing hand sanitizer and providing donations to local institutions, frontline workers and essential workers in the U.S. food supply chain. Osprey is a division of Phibro Animal Health Corporation.
It’s an effort Osprey was uniquely positioned to lead. “The idea stemmed from the Phibro management group asking how we could use our existing facilities and our knowledge of and access to microbials to benefit our community in this time of need,” recalls Lauren Danielson, Chief Executive Officer, Osprey Biotechnics. “Our team identified the opportunity of providing hand sanitizer as a very high need to keep our own essential workers safe, and to help protect our nation’s brave frontline and essential workers, as something we were able to implement immediately. It’s our way of thanking those on the front lines.”
Under World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines, Osprey has begun producing 75% isopropyl alcohol-based and 80% ethanol-based, private label hand sanitizer that can also be used as a sanitizing spray. The Sarasota plant is donating product to local healthcare workers and first responders, as well as other organizations in the food industry. It’s an initiative that not only provides some protection to those who aren’t able to stay home but also frees up more commercial hand sanitizer for the general public, who often find it unavailable at their local stores.
Supporting Farmers and Producers
“Now more than ever, there’s a spotlight at the foundation of the U.S. food chain that makes it possible for our grocery stores to stock their shelves with nutritious meat and dairy products,” says Scott Carter, Osprey VP – Microbials. “In these trying economic times, we’re especially proud to support those across the U.S. who are so vital to our nation’s food supply.”
Danielson is proud of her team’s flexibility and commitment to supporting their local community and the global industry alike. It’s a concerted effort that spans responsibilities, from purchasing to manufacturing, maintenance to formulation and bottling to shipping.
“Our team has been thrilled to participate in this project and to help our communities,” she says. “The focus is to get donations of product to those who need it most, for as a long as there’s a need.”
Phibro has a presence in many countries affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Globally, the company is working to support local communities, from Brazil to Europe to Israel, through active donation programs and regular communications to match needs to resources.
To learn more, organizations representing frontline or essential workers should call 941.351.2700.
