Op September 10, 2024, the Single-use Event took place at CORPUS Leiden. This annual event is the networking opportunity for everyone in the bioprocessing, biotechnology and biopharmaceutical industries. This year’s theme for the exhibitors and presentations was ‘mastering and improving bioprocessing.’ Suppliers showcased their range of products, from existing products to new innovations. This year, Hitma participated with two stands, and several colleagues roamed the event to familiarize themselves with the industry. I have combined their insights into a blog.
The event is an excellent opportunity to meet contacts in person and exchange information. Many large (bio)pharmaceutical companies from the Netherlands and Belgium were present during the event, and our specialists had the chance to speak with many of them about their specific challenges and explore potential solutions.
Single-use assemblies drew the attention of visitors
Our single-use assemblies were in the spotlight at our stands, drawing the attention of many visitors. These plug-and-play single-use systems are the most reliable solution for fluid transfer. They are also more efficient and safer than connecting separate components yourself. Especially the overmolded connections of assemblies help you to minimize the risk of contamination and reduce leaks and turbulence of the flow. Our stand also featured a touchscreen display showing an interactive process flow. Visitors were able to ‘tap’ through the process and explore our assemblies for every step in the (bio)pharmaceutical process. We supply the assemblies in collaboration with different suppliers, particularly our partner UltraPure International, who also supported us at our stands during the Single-use Event.
Innovations in sterility
The lectures this year covered innovations in cultured meat, freezing technologies and upstream processing (USP) and downstream processing (DSP), but the main focus was on sterility and sustainability. Two presentations discussed the opportunities and challenges of single-use systems in PUPSIT (pre-use, post-sterilization integrity testing). These sessions explored how these systems can optimize process sterility and prevent contamination. A well-designed single-use assembly was highlighted as an effective solution to overcome PUPSIT challenges. Additionally, compliance with Annex 1 was discussed, emphasizing bioburden and sterility claims of the filter and its upstream and downstream processes.
Hot topic: sustainability
Another often mentioned topic was sustainability. We also took sustainability into account in the construction of our stands, which included two cardboard counters. These counters are made of 80% recycled cardboard and are reusable and easily degradable if we can no longer use them. There were also several lectures on sustainability. TNO discussed the amount of plastic waste generated by using single-use products or packaging and the steps that are already being taken towards effective recycling. Collaboration at the European level is necessary to achieve this, and the organization is currently setting this up. Moreover, innovative solutions were presented to do more while using less materials or water.
It was another inspiring event, both socially and in terms of gained knowledge. We are looking forward to next year. Would you like more information about single-use solutions for your specific process? Do not hesitate to contact us.
