German chemical company BASF recently devised an eco-efficiency analysis for fruit and vegetables for German retailer Rewe. The analysis determines the performance of apples offered by Rewe supermarkets in terms of their cost and environmental impact.
In November and April of last year, BASF examined Braeburn apples grown in Germany, Italy, New Zealand, Chile and Argentina, evaluating the entire life-cycle, from tree to shelf.
BASF described the results as “surprising and expected in equal measure”. According to the results, there was no difference in eco-efficiency between a German apple and an Italian apple. However, Braeburn apples from overseas sometimes performed better in terms of their environmental impact than European apples.
“The reason: less energy is converted in shipping the apple from overseas than by placing the European apple in cold storage,” a press release from BASF revealed. “The targeted use of fertilizer and crop protection products improves the eco-efficiency: higher yields reduce the acreage requirement and the burden on the environment.”
The company is offering visitors to its stand at Fruit Logistica the chance to work out their own eco-efficiency analysis.
See the February issue of Eurofruit Magazine for a full report
