Israeli technology companies active in serving the country's pomegranate export business are reportedly flourishing as demand for the fruit on international markets continues to grow.
Tefen-based packaging specialist StePac recently released Xtend Bin liners, a new product designed to make the bulk storage of pomegranates in bins more convenient.
The fruit can be placed straight into the liner in the orchard itself, then cooled before being sealed in, although for even longer storage times the company recommends washing and sanitising the pomegranates before packing.
This simple, flexible and cost-effective solution enables fruit to be stored in prime condition for up to four months and sometimes even longer, depending on the initial quality of the fruit.
Another Israeli company, Juran, which designs and manufactures innovative systems and machinery for the agricultural sector, sees particularly strong levels of demand in the market for processed pomegranate products, such as arils, juices, food additives and even cosmetics.
While the fresh market is relatively stable, its managing director Avner Galili says sales of processed pomegranate products are increasing by 25 per cent per year.
