Keeping kiwis fresh can be a challenge, as it's a delicate fruit that is prone to quality loss during transport and storage, says Yagmur Ozbutun, export area executive at Turkish packaging manufacturer Ser Pak Packaging: "Kiwi has become an increasingly sought-after fruit worldwide, thanks to its taste and high nutritional value. Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, kiwi is favored both for fresh consumption as well as in the food industry. However, its delicate nature makes it prone to quality loss during storage and transport. In particular, water loss and rapid ripening can affect both the fruit's weight and visual quality, leading to economic challenges for exporters."
© Serpak Ambalaj
According to Ozbutun, storing or transporting these kiwis in specific packaging can mitigate or completely remove these risks altogether. "We offer Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP), which is an effective solution to these challenges. Kiwis stored in MAP maintain their freshness, with reduced dehydration and shriveling, while skin color and gloss of the fruit are preserved. Trials have shown that, under optimal conditions, MAP-packaged kiwis can stay fresh for up to 150 days."
© Serpak Ambalaj
Ozbutun emphasizes that preparing for unforeseen circumstances will prevent any fruit loss if things don't go as planned, especially when transit times are already longer: "Delays during transport or interruptions in the cold chain can also impact the quality of the fruit that is being exported. MAP acts as a safeguard, helping to maintain the fruit's condition throughout the supply chain. For this reason, international buyers often prefer MAP-packaged kiwis before storage, as it ensures both a longer shelf life and a reliable packaging solution."
© Serpak Ambalaj
"We have evaluated the effectiveness of Prolong® MAP solutions through tests and trials across Europe, America, Turkey, and the Middle East. These studies have shown that MAP helps preserve kiwi freshness and reduce losses. Solutions can also be tailored to meet the specific requirements of each market, adapting to different logistics and storage conditions. MAP packaging also simplifies fruit management. Longer shelf life provides flexibility in storage and distribution, giving exporters greater control over inventory and logistics planning. Our BRCGS certification confirms that Prolong® MAP solutions meet international quality and safety standards," Ozbutun concludes.
For more information:
Yagmur Ozbutun
Ser Pak Packaging
Tel: +90 533 073 70 98
[email protected]
https://www.serpak.com.tr/en
