Fresh on Demand, DP4: Optimization of the tropical fruit supply chain: Papaya 'Tainung', experiments 2019-2021

This report describes the results of trials done in the first three years of the four-year program Fresh on Demand, subproject ‘Optimization of the tropical fruit supply chain’. This subproject aims at maintaining a good quality papaya for the consumer, while taking into account sustainability requirements. Therefore, the transport of ‘Tainung’ papaya by sea transport instead of by air is relevant. This brings economic and environmental advantages. The challenge is to keep papaya quality as high as possible in the supply chain. The main points of attention for papaya quality are better control of the ripening, less water loss, and reduction of mould. To reach this, focus was on two new technologies: Modified Atmosphere (MA) Packaging based on a high precision laser perforation system (PerfoTec) and the use of managed-atmosphere chambers (RipeLocker). In shipments from Brazil to the Netherlands, tests were done on shipments that used these technologies.