Food demand will double in the coming years due to population growth. Given the food industry’s impact on the environment, it is necessary to reassess the production approach and think about a sustainable future that ensures environmental protection and food availability.
Against this background, organic foods are becoming increasingly important, with Switzerland, Denmark, and Luxembourg as the main markets for these products, even though demand is growing globally.
In this regard, fruit producers face the challenge of adapting to consumers’ demands as they become more aware of the food they eat.
Sustainable production: the fruit industry’s major challenge
Chile is a leading producer and exporter of fruits globally, avocados and apples being two of its star products, but why?
Avocados
Approximately 220,000 tons of avocado are expected to be produced in the country over the 2021-2022 season, of which 120,000 tons will be exported mainly to Western Europe.
Demand for avocado in several markets is such that world production is set to reach 12,000,000 tons in 2030, three times the level reached in 2010.
Apples
Worldwide, 87,236,221 tons of apples are produced annually, with China and the United States accounting for more than 50% of production.
However, Chile –with 636,145 tons exported in the last season– is ranked as one of the major apple exporters in the southern hemisphere, whose production is sent to markets such as Europe (39%), Latin America (26.9%), and Asia (15.6%).
Now that consumers prioritize organic and sustainable food consumption, producers and exporters must guarantee this condition after cultivation and harvesting.
Organic coatings: promoting a sustainable future
Fruits are traditionally coated with synthetic waxes made from petroleum derivatives To extend their shelf life, impacting consumer preference for 100% natural foods.
On this matter, it is also important to consider that product packaging directly impacts purchasing decisions.
Moreover, a study found that 85% of people surveyed favor products with the least amount of packaging, and 29% have stopped buying from certain brands because their packaging is not sustainable.
By replacing synthetic coatings with a plant-based alternative, it is possible to extend the shelf life of fruits and vegetables naturally, which is especially important to keep the organic fruit’s properties from the time it is harvested until it reaches the consumer.
Shel-Life®, Shel-Life®, the key to overcoming current difficulties
At PolyNatural, we are aware of market demands. We have developed a fruit coating based on vegetable polymers, lipids, and natural extracts, allowing us to extend the lifespan of fruits and vegetables without the need for synthetic elements.
Shel-Life® delays dehydration and the growth of microorganisms naturally and sustainably. This solution’s impact on achieving a sustainable future is such that, according to data corresponding to January 2022, its use has allowed:
- Save 880,750 m³ of water.
- Avoid the production of 786,713 kg of CO₂.
- Reduce food waste by 840 tons.
Shel-Life® is perfect for helping organic fruit producers guarantee this condition beyond the sowing and cultivation processes, thus prolonging the lifespan of fruits and vegetables with a plant-based solution with certified standards in Europe and the United States.
Thanks to Shel-Life®, it is now possible to meet consumer demands and extend the natural life of fruits and vegetables, improving brand positioning and increasing the investment’s returns.