"From the day we were established over 50 years ago, our focus has solely been on one product, which is ethylene for fruit ripening," says Greg Akins, President & CEO of Catalytic Generators. Since then, fruit consumption has significantly grown, further increasing the need for ripening. "Our customers all have one thing in common: they rely on ethylene to ripen their fruits. It is our goal to ensure a reliable supply, backed by timely service and distribution across many parts of the globe."
Over the years, Catalytic Generators has built a presence in the U.S., Australia, as well as several European countries, including the U.K., Italy, Greece, Germany, and The Netherlands. In addition, approval for the use of the company's ethylene solution, Ethy-Gen® II is pending in Spain, Portugal, and France.
Back in 1973, Catalytic Generators pioneered the original ethylene generator and Ethy-Gen liquid for fruit ripening. Following the expiration of its patent, competitors attempted to replicate the company's innovation. "Nonetheless, we've been able to maintain our position as the market leader. In fact, our Ethy-Gen II ripening concentrate is the sole liquid product authorized for banana ripening by various EU countries.," Akins mentioned.
Ethylene generator and Ethy-Gen II liquid.
More uniform ripening and product reliability
Europe has become an important market for Catalytic Generators more recently. With consumption of bananas and other tropical fruits like avocados being high in Europe and consumers expecting a high-quality product, there is a need for consistent ripening. "The use of our ethylene solution results in more predictable and uniform ripening." The successful authorization of Ethy-Gen II across Europe allows the company to help ripeners apply ethylene with a safer and easier to use application system.
To ensure the safety of its product, Catalytic Generators had their ethylene generators certified by Underwriters Laboratories (UL) and TÜV SÜD, organizations renowned for their stringent safety testing and certification services. "Securing these generator authorizations and Ethy-Gen II certifications is a significant achievement, given the extensive and costly testing required to evaluate both the liquid and its ethylene emissions. However, this rigorous process ensures that ripeners can trust the safety and efficacy of the products they utilize. We are the only ones offering this combination of authorizations and safety certifications, allowing us to provide professional support and prioritize product reliability," Akins commented.
Customer partnerships
How are the company's ethylene application solutions different from what other companies offer? "Our process slowly emits ethylene over a 24-hour application time, creating ethylene in a safe and economical manner." Many other companies that focus on ripening sell hundreds of different types of gases, whereas Catalytic's dedication is to just one - ethylene. The company is thankful for the mutually beneficial partnership it has been able to build with its customers. "We realize that we couldn't exist without their business, but without ethylene, our clients couldn't bring bananas and other tropical fruits to market."
Greg Akins and Steve Page at last year's Fruit Logistica trade show in Berlin.
Fruit Logistica Berlin
Catalytic's ethylene generators and ripening solution are being used by customers all over the world. From February 5 – 7, the company will be present at Fruit Logistica Berlin and available to meet in person. Catalytic Generators will be co-exhibiting with Interko and Fresh Produce Instruments in Hall 1.2, stand D-40.
For more information:
Greg Akins
Catalytic Generators
Tel: +1-757-855-0191
[email protected]
https://www.catalyticgenerators.com/