In the modern food industry, freshness and shelf life are two of the most important quality characteristics. Innovative solutions are needed to maximize product quality and minimize losses, particularly in the area of freshly cut salads, which play a key role in the catering and ready-to-eat food retail sectors.

This is where our new fresh-keeping solution from comes in, which can be used directly in the field after harvesting. This new fresh-keeping solution offers numerous advantages that significantly improve both supply chain efficiency and end customer satisfaction.

The focus is on iceberg and romaine lettuce, which pose a challenge for many fresh-cut farms in terms of freshness retention. With these varieties, oxidation manifests itself in an unsightly pink discoloration. Fresh-cut lettuce is therefore often packaged in a protective atmosphere or vacuum to prevent oxidation

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Prevention of oxidation and discoloration

 

Probably the most immediate and visible benefit of the new fresh-keeping solution for lettuce is the drastic reduction in oxidation and discoloration. By treating the lettuce directly after harvesting using an immersion bath, the cut edges are effectively protected. This prevents the typical browning that often occurs with romaine and iceberg lettuce and ensures that the lettuce looks fresh and appealing for longer. Studies have shown that freshness can be extended by up to 8 days - a significant advantage over conventional methods.

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Reduction of harvest and transportation losses

Another significant advantage is the minimization of harvest and transport losses. Untreated lettuce is particularly susceptible to damage during transportation, which leads to increased waste and therefore financial losses. With our innovative immersion bath solution, the lettuce remains more stable and resistant to mechanical stress. This means less waste and more efficient use of the harvested produce.

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The direct application of the fresh-keeping solution in the field extends the freshness of the lettuce until it reaches the end consumer with a higher product quality. Customers receive fresh, crunchy salads that exceed their expectations. This not only promotes satisfaction, but also strengthens brand loyalty and trust in the ready-to-eat products.

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Sustainability and resource efficiency

The new technology also contributes to sustainability. By extending shelf life and reducing waste, the overall use of resources along the supply chain is optimized. Less waste means that fewer resources are wasted on cultivation, harvesting and transportation. Food safety can also be improved as fresh products are available for longer and the risk of spoilage is minimized.

Competitiveness and market position

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For farmers and producers, the introduction of this fresh-keeping solution means a significant improvement in their competitiveness. They can offer their customers high-quality, fresh products that have a longer shelf life and therefore better meet the requirements of the modern market. This strengthens their market position and opens up new opportunities in the marketing and distribution of fresh products.

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Food Freshly's innovative fresh-cut solution, which is applied directly in the field after harvesting, represents a significant advance in the fresh-cut industry. It offers comprehensive benefits, from preventing oxidation and discoloration to reducing losses, increasing product quality and sustainability. This technology has the potential to fundamentally change the way fresh salads are produced, transported and consumed and sets new standards in the food industry.