The strawberry harvest in Brazil is expanding, with Minas Gerais and São Paulo leading, contributing around 66% of national production. Other regions, including the South, are also seeing growth. New production systems and post-harvest technologies are enhancing crop profitability. According to data from Embrapa and Cepea/Esalq/USP, these advancements are reshaping the market.
Termotécnica, a reference in packaging solutions for agribusiness, is expanding its DaColheita line to cater to strawberry producers. The packaging, designed for various strawberry sizes, utilizes flow pack as primary packaging. DaColheita technology, patented by Termotécnica, extends the shelf-life of strawberries through passive modified atmosphere technology, using film with laser micro-holes. This ensures longevity during transport and storage.
Tiago Crispim, commercial director of Frutas AP Matriz, states: "We have been producing high-quality strawberries for over 25 years and are very pleased with the benefits of this new solution. The combination of DaColheita coolers with passive modified atmosphere technology in flow pack creates a perfect solution, offering double protection and ensuring greater durability and freshness for our products, in addition to reducing losses during transportation. We have noticed significant gains in product quality from post-harvest to the point of sale and, from there, to the end consumer," he explains.
EPS coolers, known as Styrofoam, play a role in maintaining cold temperatures and extending shelf life, reducing waste and damage during transportation. EPS absorbs impacts, preserving product integrity. The ventilated areas of DaColheita coolers facilitate rapid cooling, ensuring fresher fruit with minimal vitamin and moisture loss. The lightweight nature of EPS reduces transportation weight and CO2 emissions.
Crispim highlights the sustainability of EPS boxes, which are 100% recyclable. DaColheita packaging aligns with Termotécnica's sustainability goals, reducing waste and extending shelf life by up to 30%. The lighter packaging also contributes to a lower carbon footprint.
For producers, the DaColheita solution means fewer returns of substandard batches and access to distant markets. Retailers benefit from fresher fruit on shelves longer, enhancing brand quality.
Termotécnica emphasizes its environmental commitment by offering solutions for EPS disposal and recycling. Since 2007, the company has recycled approximately 48 million kilos of EPS. This circular economy approach allows customers and consumers to contribute to environmental preservation.
Source: Abrafrutas