Project: Antimicrobial Biocuir Based on Grape Pomace Enhanced with Metabolites Produced Through Synthetic Biology Techniques
Xquenda_Lab, the Indigenous Digital Innovation Laboratory affiliated with El Colegio de la Frontera Norte (El Colef) in Tijuana, Mexico, has been developing since 2025 a series of biocuir recipes using grape pomace discarded from the wine industry at the Guadalupe Valley in Baja California. In coordination with the Autonomous University of Baja California (UABC), mechanical and bacteriological tests are being conducted on the material with the goal of achieving a recipe suitable for joint patenting by both institutions, intended for the exclusive use of the Kumiai Indigenous community. The aim is to support the creation of a social and solidarity-based enterprise led by Kumiai indigenous from the community of San Antonio Necua for the production and commercialization of grape-pomace biocuir. It is considered that the development of metabolites through synthetic biology techniques—later incorporated into the biocuir for antimicrobial purposes—would add value to the final product in the market while simultaneously improving community health.