Cherries, appreciated for their sweet flavor and juicy texture, are also among the most delicate and perishable fruits. Ensuring they reach consumers in optimal condition is a crucial challenge for the fruit and vegetable sector.
Addressing this need is Fruit Control Equipments (FCE), a company that has developed an innovative system based on three technological pillars: rapid cooling, controlled atmosphere (CA), and air sanitization. All of this is achieved without the use of chemical additives.
After harvest, cherries quickly begin to deteriorate due to ambient temperatures. To slow down this process, it is essential to lower their temperature immediately.
The CHYC™ HydroCooler system by FCE enables uniform and rapid cooling down to +1/+2 °C, using an innovative shower system that prevents thermal shock. This method not only preserves the organoleptic properties of cherries but also maintains their crispness and juiciness, extending their shelf life.
Once cooled, cherries must be stored in optimal conditions to keep their freshness intact. Managing oxygen and carbon dioxide plays a key role in this process.
The Flex Fruit Case (FFC) technology allows CA to be applied directly to pallets, precisely regulating gas levels to slow down the fruit's metabolism. This system enables cherries to be stored for up to 60 days without the use of chemical preservatives, ensuring consistent quality throughout the distribution chain and reducing product waste.
Beyond temperature and atmosphere control, the quality of the air in storage environments also plays a crucial role in preserving cherries.
The IONNY® system by FCE uses advanced ionization technology to reduce microbial load in the environment, eliminating fungi, yeasts, and bacteria. This approach improves hygienic conditions, preventing the spread of pathogens and protecting the product's freshness without using chemical substances.
Thanks to these cutting-edge solutions, producers and distributors can ensure a product that is always fresh and safe, optimizing the entire supply chain.
FCE’s technological innovation represents a significant step forward for a more sustainable agriculture, reducing reliance on chemical additives and enhancing the natural quality of cherries.
Text and images: poscosecha.com
23 Oct 2024
‘After a winter that was generous with cold hours,’ says Nicolás Güizzo, the company's technical director, ’and a thermal build-up that gave us spring days, we are excited to start a new season with more volume and excellent quality.
14 May 2024
"In terms of marketing, they are fundamental - states Diego Aguilar, president of the Chamber of Cherries of Mendoza - but the first 10-15 days are fundamental. From October 25 to November 10 is the window that remains open in Mendoza to make a difference".
07 Aug 2026
A study evaluates 92 entomopathogenic nematode strains against Drosophila suzukii. Steinernema carpocapsae NC116 shows high efficacy against larvae, while sublethal effects on adults open new opportunities for integrated pest management in cherry production.
07 Aug 2026
The 2026 Northwest U.S. cherry season enters its final phase with over 16 million boxes shipped. Volumes remain below the May forecast and Rainier cherries are sharply down, while flavor, size and quality stay high as dark sweet cherries support the final push in August.
