Calavo Growers uses Apeel to extend avocado freshness

Calavo Growers Inc., Santa Paula, Calif., is using Apeel Sciences' plant-based solution to extend the shelf life of avocados.

Using Apeel’s solution on the fruit gives Calavo customers a new and unique option for an end-to-end solution, extending avocado shelf life through to consumers, according to a news release.

“Teaming up with Apeel to extend shelf life and transportability of Calavo’s premium avocados was a natural fit with our solution-based business approach,” Rob Wedin, executive vice president of fresh sales for Calavo, said in the release. “We pride ourselves on providing customers with options to fit their unique business strategies and challenges.

Wedin said retailers carrying Apeel avocados will see less shrink and will be able to maintain displays with ripe and ready-to-eat fruit.

“Quality, flavor and ripeness retained longer, consumers have more time to enjoy their avocados after bringing them home from the store,” he said in the release.

Apeel’s technology creates a protective edible “peel” on the avocado skin that keeps moisture inside and oxygen out, which maintains fruit freshness and extends peak ripeness, according to the release.

Using Apeel supports Calavo’s sustainability strategy, according to the release.

“The consideration and commitment to long-term ecological balance, environmental soundness and social equity throughout the enterprise are key strategic elements,” according to the release.

“Utilizing Apeel’s technology to combat food waste supports many of the company’s sustainability initiatives and contributes to their overall mission in serving as good stewards of the communities in which Calavo operates."