Israeli packaging firm Hefestus is getting ready to enter the Australian market with products based on its Shelf Life Booster (SLB) technology.
Hefestus has signed an agreement with Australian company Goldtech to market its products in the country.
"The launch of Hefestus SLB technology in the US in 2009 was an outstanding success and was followed by impressive sales of our packaging solutions to leading food companies," said company president and CEO Oded Shtemer.
"Despite the economic downturn last year, Hefestus global sales increased by 60 per cent. We anticipate Australia will be a major market for Hefestus in 2010.
"Australian food manufacturers and marketers utilising SLB technology will be able to create high quality fresh products tailored for long-lasting shelf life, significantly decreased returns and sharply reduced product decomposition, leading to increased profitability," said Mr Shtemer.
A major obstacle in purchasing fresh-cut fruits and vegetables is their short shelf life, which leads to a quick degeneration of the product and an undesirable look.
SLB technology overcomes this problem by providing extended shelf life and reducing the accumulation of product decomposition liquids in the packaging bottom.
The system allows manufacturers to transport fresh-cut fruits and vegetables wide distances without affecting product odour and appearance.
"Hefestus will begin marketing its advanced packaging solutions to Australian processors and packagers of meat and fresh-cut fruits and vegetables, as well as ready-to-eat fresh salads, in response to the market's increasing demand for effective shelf-life solutions," Mr Shtemer added.
