Recently, Total Exotics finalized their test with the post-harvest product Liquidseal for Avocados ECO. For this test, avocados from Mexican origin were treated after arrival in The Netherlands. This late intervention test included storage in a cooler and at room temperature and was fully executed and monitored by the Total Exotic’s Quality manager.
The following results have been monitored and documented by Total Exotics:
- Up to day 12, the firmness decreased faster for the group that was not treated with Liquidseal.
- When fruits are treated with Liquidseal, it takes longer for the fruit to show internal problems and the firmness decreases less rapidly
- Since it is presumed that Liquidseal will not have a negative effect on the pressure in a later stage, it can also be applied in the country of origin. Namely, there is no indication that the coating on avocados inhibits the ripening process, either with or without ethylene.
Avocados were stored for 2 days at 6⁰C, after which all are moved to 10⁰C without forcing airflow. After three days in 10⁰C, avocados are moved to a room with a temperature of 20⁰C to mimic the process from storage to retailer to supermarket.
Total Exotics is committed to more sustainable production and processing and strives to be the leading company when it comes to sustainability throughout the supply chain. Increasing the shelf life of fruits is a necessity to fight food wastage in the entire supply chain. Primarily with focus on the supermarkets and the end consumer where most food wastage occurs.
Liquidseal for Avocados ECO is a biodegradable and compostable packaging and offers proven protection for hard-skinned fruit at every step of the supply chain, from field to fork. The specific characteristics of Liquidseal enable companies to reduce product wastage up to 30-40% and reduce the need for pesticides and plastics while preserving taste and appearance.
Anneke Bouman, Quality Manager at Total Exotics, stated the following: ‘’It is our responsibility to contribute to reducing food waste. Studies show that most of the food is wasted at the end of the supply chain. By extending the shelf life of fruits and maintaining product quality, we can make a significant difference in reducing consumer food waste. At Total Exotics, various experiments with avocados showed that Liquidseal offered an extended shelf life. Furthermore, it did not negatively influence the ripening process regardless whether ethylene was used in the ripening rooms or not. We can draw positive conclusions from these trials, and we want to look at future opportunities where avocados will be treated with Liquidseal at our suppliers from all parts of the world.”
For more information:
Victor Monster
Liquidseal Fruits BV
Tel: +31 (0)71 3014314
Email: info@liquidseal.nl
www.liquidseal.nl
Anneke Bouman
Total Exotics
Tel: +31 (0) 180 644040
Email: anneke@totalexotics.com
www.totalexotics.com