Apeel offers free coating services to suppliers affected by port strike
Apeel Sciences is supporting produce suppliers affected by the East Coast port strike by offering free coating services to protect perishable shipments at risk of spoilage.
Apeel’s plant-based coating, designed to extend the shelf life of fruits and vegetables, provides a safeguard against the transportation delays threatening fresh produce.
“Perishable goods, particularly fruits and vegetables, are highly vulnerable to delays,” Luiz Beling, CEO of Apeel Sciences, said in a news release. “The disruptions caused by the strike could create significant bottlenecks for weeks, leading to a global ripple effect similar to what we experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic. What we’re offering suppliers is the gift of time, so that their produce can reach consumers in the best possible condition.”
Apeel’s coating works by slowing oxidation and moisture loss, the primary causes of spoilage. This added protection gives suppliers more flexibility in navigating supply chain disruptions. The company will deploy teams to work alongside suppliers, ensuring a seamless application process that won’t disrupt existing operations.
As supply chain challenges threaten the availability of fresh produce, Apeel’s services aim to help suppliers avoid waste while keeping healthy foods fresh and accessible to consumers.
“We want to make sure we’re there for the produce supplier community when they need us most,” Beling said.
The strike was suspended last week until Jan. 15.
For more information, visit apeelsciences.com.