Companies team up to extend shelf life of avocados
Global avocado company Westfalia Fruit is partnering with agritech company AgroSustain to extend the shelf life of avocados and combat supply chain waste.
In 2022, the companies began discussing the potential of AgroSustain’s edible coating, Afondo, to extend the shelf life of avocados. Trials have been conducted in Colombia, Chile and Peru during the last three years, with treated avocados and limes shipped to Westfalia’s operations in Germany and France, according to a news release.
Afondo has demonstrated a reduction in postharvest fungicide use by at least 50% and a decrease in supply chain waste, according to the release. Commercial trials have begun with selected customers using the coating, which is compatible with existing machinery, according to the companies.
“Westfalia is proud to be at the forefront of innovation in the avocado sector,” Andrew Mitchell, Westfalia Fruit head of innovation, said in the release. “Our collaboration with AgroSustain reflects our shared commitment to sustainability and delivering high-quality produce to our customers.
“One of the benefits of the Afondo coating is its flexibility; we are able to incorporate (it) into our existing operations as an option for customers who are impressed by its results.”
Afondo has also been used on passion fruit, mangoes, citrus, nectarines and cherries, according to the release.
“Working with Westfalia has been a collaborative and inspiring journey,” AgroSustain CEO Olga Dubey said. “Together, we are optimizing supply chain integration and preparing to launch a bio-coating for organic crops in the near future.”
