#Israel #Fresh Produce #StePacPPC #Xtend #Tefen

StePacPPC's Innovative Packaging for Fresh Produce

In a world increasingly focused on sustainability, StePacPPC stands at the forefront of innovative packaging solutions, particularly with its latest product: the Xtend® Pallet Shrouds. These state-of-the-art protective covers are designed to ensure that fresh produce, including delicate berries, arrives at retailers in peak condition while significantly reducing plastic usage.

Addressing the Need for Sustainable Packaging

StePacPPC has committed over three decades to developing climate-positive solutions that extend the shelf life of fresh produce. Recognizing that traditional packaging methods have limitations, particularly for items like berries that require specific temperature conditions, the company has created a pallet shroud that accommodates these needs effectively. These shrouds are engineered to work at temperatures close to 0°C, making them ideal for the shipping of sensitive produce like blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, and blackberries.

The Science Behind the Shrouds

The unique design of Xtend Pallet Shrouds incorporates advanced modified atmosphere and humidity technologies. This innovation allows for precise control over the atmosphere and moisture surrounding the produce during transportation and storage. Consequently, this creates an optimal environment to maintain freshness and quality, even during lengthy shipping times.

Dr. Gary Ward, the Chief Technology Officer at StePacPPC, emphasizes the importance of tailoring these shrouds to meet the specific needs of various fruits and vegetables. Depending on the type of produce, they can be designed to either utilize modified atmosphere or rely solely on humidity control, providing flexibility in addressing diverse packaging challenges.

Global Adoption and Success Stories

The adoption of Xtend pallet shrouds has been widespread, particularly among growers and shippers across North and Central America. In countries like Mexico, where blueberries are often field-packed, logistical hurdles arise when trying to cool berries before packaging. The pallet shroud alleviates these issues, helping to maintain the fruit's integrity throughout transport.

Felipe Martinez C., CEO of Cima Berries Mexico, notes the tangible benefits of using Xtend shrouds. They have successfully minimized weight loss and preserved the quality of organic blueberries during transport. He reports that their firmness and vibrant color remain intact even after long journeys, allowing for an appealing display when they reach their destination.

Similarly, farmers in Peru have experienced a significant improvement in blueberry quality during shipping to the United States, owing to the effective cold sterilization treatment facilitated by these shrouds. The ease of removing the shroud for fumigation upon arrival speaks volumes about their practicality and effectiveness.

Cost-Effectiveness and Practical Applications

The economic benefits of switching to Xtend shrouds are noteworthy, especially when compared to traditional controlled atmosphere (CA) containers. As the cost of CA containers continues to rise, the Xtend solution provides a more budget-friendly alternative while still delivering on quality and shelf life.

Beyond shipping, these innovative shrouds serve a dual purpose as an essential tool for inventory management. Polish growers have reported that they can store blueberries for up to four weeks, which helps balance stock and aligns better with supply and demand fluctuations.

Likewise, Argentinian blueberries being airfreighted to the Middle East benefit from the shrouds during their three-week cold storage, successfully minimizing weight loss and microbial decay.

Conclusion

StePacPPC's Xtend pallet shrouds exemplify how innovative packaging can address the complexities of fresh produce logistics while adhering to sustainability goals. As industries strive for greener solutions, these advanced protective covers ensure high-quality produce reaches consumers at optimal freshness, creating a win-win for farmers, distributors, and sustainability advocates alike.

StePacPPC will be displaying its groundbreaking packaging solutions at the upcoming Asia Fruit Logistica in Hong Kong from September 3-5, further solidifying its position as a leader in sustainable produce packaging.