Premium refrigeration brands, U-Line and Marvel, today join a growing new segment of product innovations for homes and business with the introduction of BrightShield™ antimicrobial lighting inside select refrigeration and ice making products. These are the first of their kind to feature around-the-clock protection on any surfaces the light touches from viruses, bacteria, mold, and mildew.
In 2021, The Middleby Corporation became an investor and licensing partner with Vyv, Inc., to bring antimicrobial/antiviral innovations to the home appliance and foodservice industries through its broad product portfolio. U-Line and Marvel lead the way for Middleby with today’s product introductions.
The upgraded interior lighting using Vyv’s patented UV-free antimicrobial lighting mitigates the risk of microbial contamination that can be introduced inside these ice and refrigeration environments from outside sources. Vyv lights create environments that are inhospitable to the growth of bacteria, viruses, mold, mildew, fungi, and yeast.
“As premium brands of ice and refrigeration products, this is a perfect place for us to focus on creating a more hygienic home environment,” said Andy Doberstein, President of U-Line and Marvel. “Harnessing this energy efficient and environmentally sustainable approach to reducing germs continues our tradition of leading the way through innovation and setting the highest standards for our customers.”
“The world’s many health challenges have always required innovative thinking and approaches,” said Colleen Costello, CEO, Vyv, Inc. “We are delighted to see Middleby, the global leader in home appliance and foodservice equipment, and their teams at U-Line and Marvel, join the innovative family of antimicrobial-enabled household products with a shared focus on promoting better health and well-being for us all.”