Produce World has expanded its organic carrot preparation capacity, with the opening of a new carrot peeling facility at its Isleham Fresh Produce division.
Isleham is the company’s third site to receive approval for preparing and packing organic carrots.
The facility, which can accommodate organic and conventional carrots, supplies prepared material to a number of packers including Prep Direct, the prepared business unit within Produce World, as well as most of the major retailers.
Tony Padoan, commercial director of Isleham Fresh Produce and Prep Direct said the expansion had already exceeded his expectations.
Previously, Isleham Fresh Produce washed, graded and packed fresh carrots, while additional preparation or processing was done elsewhere and then delivered to customers. With the new facility installed ready peeled carrots can go direct to customers, therefore reducing food miles by shortening the supply route.
Padoan said: “One of our key aims is to reduce food miles and at IFP we receive, wash, grade and can now peel carrots ready for the prepared market. Our initial organic plan was to produce around three tonnes per week of prepared material - three weeks following start-up we were already peeling over 25t.”
Recognising the organic fresh and prepared vegetable market is increasing by more than 17 per cent year on year, Produce World is keen to up its impact in the sector, according to ceo William Burgess.
In addition to carrots, the company prepares parsnips, swede, butternut squash and sweet potatoes, with potatoes and brassicas being considered for future inclusion.
Burgess said: “We continually strive to become more efficient and add additional value to the whole of the supply chain.
“With the new carrot peeling facility we are able to increase returns to our growers by using more of the crop, while ensuring we are meeting the requirements of our customers.”
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