Arctic apple developer and grower Okanagan Specialty Fruits says it has completed the construction of its 107,000-square-foot controlled atmosphere facility — which is already operational — at its Moses Lake, Wash., campus.
“The [controlled atmosphere] facility utilizes advanced refrigeration and controlled atmosphere technology to create an optimal environment for apple storage,” Ray Moody, facility operations manager for OSF, said in a news release. “This technology helps maintain the freshness, flavor, texture and nutritional value of Arctic apples, extending their shelf life and ensuring the unparalleled quality our apples are known for.”
OSF said this new controlled atmosphere storage facility is 35 minutes from its orchards and is adjacent to its processing plant in Moses Lake, which the company said cuts down on transportation costs and emissions and allows for just-in-time production for peak freshness to customers.
“Our [controlled atmosphere] facility marks our continued commitment to deliver the highest quality sliced apples to our customers,” said Don Westcott, OSF president. “With construction now complete, we are well positioned to meet the growing demand for our products as our orchard production continues to increase yearly.”
