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
11 Jan 2024
The operation by Teno Group, which started on 23 October, processed and packed around 300 tonnes of fruit during the month and a half that the operation lasted. However, the presence of fruit flies prevented aerial shipments of cherries to China in November.
11 Sep 2024
The demand for Chilean cherries is high from the Chinese market, which receives over 91% of Chile’s cherry export volume. Post estimates that cherry production in marketing year (MY) 2024/25 will reach 500,000 metric tons (MT), an increase of 6.8% compared to MY2023/24.
05 Jun 2025
Aerial roots help plants adapt to waterlogging stress. Chinese researchers explore the ‘Gotenba zakura’ cherry tree as a rootstock to improve sour cherry resilience to heavy summer rains in northern China. A promising breakthrough for fruit sustainability.
05 Jun 2025
In Niagara County, Tim Buhr grows sweet cherries with high-density systems, VOEN covers and Cornell varieties. Thanks to Gisela rootstocks and targeted agronomic practices, he faces New York’s humid climate focusing on fruit quality, high yields and local market demand.
