Dynamic storage increases firmness and shelf life
Apples and pears stored in a standard ULO (Ultra Low Oxygen) cell already benefit greatly. These facilities have fixed oxygen (O2) and carbon dioxide (CO2) levels. However, using dynamic storage appears to yield even better results, explains Niels Remmelink of Van Amerongen CA Technology. This Dutch company specializes in fruit and vegetable storage. The Advanced Control Respiration (ACR) system measures a product s respiration - its oxygen intake and the CO2 production - over a certain period.
Inspection of the ARC system Based on that, it s determined whether the oxygen level can be further reduced, should remain the same, or should be increased. The aim is to arrive at the fruit s lowest acceptable oxygen value. Niels says storage in extremely low oxygen conditions has several advantages. The stored fruit become firmer. With Elstar apples, it can prevent brown skin spots. And in Granny Smiths, it prevents the disease, Skald