Hazel Technologies is set to launch a new controlled atmosphere (CA) solution for the apple industry.
Named Hazel CA, the technology controls the respiration rate and ethylene production of apples in cold storage.
'Unlike many solutions on the market for protecting apple quality in storage, Hazel CA features an easy to use self-application model, meaning apple packers have the freedom to use the technology without a technician present,' Hazel Technologies said in a media release.
The technology has shown promising results in commercial trials with Belleharvest, the second largest marketer of apples in the US state of Michigan.
'Our QC and pack-out data from long-term storage rooms following the use of Hazel CA was impressive last season,' said Milt Fuehrer, chief executive of Belleharvest. 'At Belleharvest we have a track record of embracing innovations such as Hazel CA in order to provide the highest quality product to our customers and the end consumer.'
Hazel CA will be available to US apple packers this coming season. Aidan Mouat, chief executive of Hazel Technologies, said it was one of multiple new technology offerings the company will launch for its customers in the apple category this year.
'We are proud to continue to offer new technologies to the apple industry, one of the largest and most important fresh produce categories globally,' said Mouat.
