Grape growers in California now have a new US distributor for SO2 liners from Chilean-based SmartPac. The liners are an all-in-one product designed to replace the SO2 device, liners and absorbent pads, blending them into the one liner. The US distributor is Californian family-owned company, MR BOX. SmartPac and MR BOX joined forces last year, with MR BOX officially becoming the distributor of SmartPac in May.
"SmartPac approached MR BOX in September of 2017 to be our new distributor," said Nicolas Vidal of SmartPac. "We have had some time to learn about each others' companies, and to develop the best possible strategy to get these 'smart liners' in the hands of the grape growers in our area. SmartPac replaces the SO2 device, liner and absorbent pad with just one device."
Chemistry behind the product
The SO2 liners are used by shippers to keep their fruit fresh in transit and storage. These liners use a chemical reaction between the moisture in the fruit and salts in the liner. As Vidal explained, "The chemistry of the product is based on the reaction of humidity of the fruit inside the liner and a salt present in the film structure. These two components generate a steady and homogeneous release of SO2 on all sides of the film. Every berry is exposed to a low but stable and homogeneous concentration of SO2 during storage time, drastically reducing the risk of bleaching due to high SO2 and also the risk of mold development due to absence of SO2 in some points of the box."
"For the usable duration, we have different options depending on the customer requirements," he continued. "We can help with coverage ranging from 10 days up to 75 days when combined with gasification. But the majority goes from 30 to 60 days."
Vidal added that SmartPac's SO2 liners provide better presentation of the fruit in the box, are fully recyclable and considered eco-friendly. "SmartPac is the only SO2 device that after being used is 100% recyclable, as it is made 100% with low density polyethylene, which is becoming a trend in all developed markets," he said. "Because it is just the single layer, they have a better presentation. Additionally, it reduces labor costs because they are quicker and easier to install, reducing the packaging time for each box, as well simplifying inventories."
Currently, there are two sizes available, one for standard grape shipment boxes, and another with pouch bags and clamshells in mind. "At the moment we are offering two sizes, specially fitted for 5DN Styro box, the pick tote and long term storage boxes," Vidal said. "We are also serving some specific needs of the market with a wrap that involves the pouches or clamshells leaving the ends open, to maximize the airflow."
Only for grapes in the US, for now
SmartPac is an internationally-focused company, with their distribution spreading over multiple continents. The SO2 liners are approved for use by the USDA but only for grapes currently. The company is hoping to expand this further to blueberries first, then other products later.
"SmartPac protects over 20 million boxes every year, and we are growing very fast," Vidal shared. "We have an important position in South Africa, Italy, Brazil, Chile and Egypt, and are also present in other markets such as Turkey, Greece, Argentina, and others. We are also in discussions to distribute into China, Japan and India."
"Currently, the use of SO2 is only approved for grapes in the US," Vidal continued. "There are other markets, such as Europe, where it can be used for blueberries and lychees. Studies are currently underway to evaluate the use of SO2 in Blueberries within the United States, but it is still work in progress."
Other developments for the future
In its current form, the SO2 liners are not suitable for use with organic products, as SO2 in general is not approved for organic. Therefore, the company behind SmartPac is researching alternatives for organic growers. It's also not the only project they are working on.
"Quimas, the owner of SmartPac, is currently working in collaboration with USDA and other universities and research centers to develop another active ingredient suitable for organics," Vidal shared. "It is a GRAS (Generally Recognizes As Safe) agent and initial results are very promising for this market, which currently has limited options in post harvest. R&D is a key area for Quimas, and we are working on several other projects, including other active ingredients and applications in fresh fruit and other areas."
For now, Vidal concluded that SmartPac is excited to be bringing the single bag SO2 liners into the US market, with the help of their distributor MR BOX. The two companies look forward to working together. "SmartPac is excited to partner with the MR BOX team, as they have great relationships within the grape industry," he said. "We are hoping to expand the use of SmartPac technology to the grape growers within the United States market."
For more information:
Corie Rundle
MR BOX, Inc.
Tel: +1 (661) 725-1999