Ethylene Removal Systems
Ethylene is a colorless and odorless gaseous plant hormone produced as fruits mature and ripen. In storage, ethylene can penetrate cardboard boxes and plastic containers and react with ethylene receptors in the produce, causing a reaction on the genetic level, which manifests as:
- Browning in pears.
- Bitterness in carrots.
- Decay in bananas and apricots.
- Mold in grapes.
- Sprouting in potatoes.
- Shriveling and weight loss in passion fruits.
- Odor in onions and garlic.
- Leaf abscission and color loss in leafy vegetables.
Fruits and vegetables in storage facilities require a controlled environment to prevent ethylene from diminishing produce quality and shelf life, causing financial loss.
Types of Ethylene Gas Removal Solutions
Ethylene removal is a natural process that does not affect the properties of fruits. There are several ways to remove ethylene from stored produce:
- Filter systems: Ethylene filters and blanket filters remove ethylene gas from boxed produce and flowers during shipping. Air passes through the filters and oxidizes the ethylene gas to kill bacteria, mold, rot and odors. The SX1 Ethylene Filter is ideal for refrigerated containers and walk-in coolers up to 3,000 cubic feet. The SX2 Ethylene Filter is ideal for larger areas up to 10,000 cubic feet. Filters last three months with produce and six months with flowers.
- Super Fresh Sachets: Fresh media sachets protect produce from the packing line to the retailer by removing ethylene gas, bacteria, and mold. They are available in 5- and 9-gram sachets for up to 30 pounds of produce and 20-gram sachets for up to 50 pounds of product.
- Air filtration systems: An ethylene scrubber, such as the EC-3+ air filtration system, reduces ethylene levels up to 95% and kills contaminants such as bacteria, mold, and viruses. The unit holds 100 pounds of Super Fresh Power Pellets, which can last three to six months or longer with produce and up to a year with floral. It can be used in storage areas up to 150,000 cubic feet. For larger areas, place multiple EC-3+ systems in various parts of the room.
Benefits of Ethylene Removal in Produce Storage
Ethylene control helps manage the ripening process and extend the shelf life of fruits and vegetables. Other benefits of ethylene removal include:
- Reduced waste and spoilage.
- Increased sustainability and profits.
- Cost savings for businesses.
- Improved product quality and aesthetic appeal.
Need Help Choosing the Right Ethylene Removal System for Your Produce?
Several factors must be considered when selecting ethylene control solutions, including the storage space, the type of produce, and the storage conditions. Browse QA Supplies' ethylene removal systems and contact us for assistance in choosing the right one for your application.
