Murrieta, Calif.-based West Pak Avocado has partnered with Apeel to extended shelf life and reduce food waste for their premium avocados.
“I have no doubt that the Apeel process will resonate with many of our key retail partners,” West Pak Avocado CEO Mario Pacheco, said in a news release. “It dovetails perfectly with our best practices with sustainability and our no-waste, no-hunger goal. We are actively applying the process for both Mexico and California programs in the western states and already have plans in motion for expanded distribution throughout the country.”
Apeel’s plant-based protection is made from materials that are found in the skins, peels, and seeds of all plants, according to the company. The edible coating keeps moisture in and oxygen out, and helps produce last two times longer, according to the release.
“We’re excited to work with West Pak to extend avocado shelf life and reduce food waste for our retail partners, and ultimately, the consumer at home,” Apeel vice president of product Erich Klawuhn said in the release. “Apeel’s plant-based protection slows oxidation and water loss, and as a result, avocados with Apeel last two times longer.” A time-lapse video showing Apeel on avocados illustrates its benefits, the release said.
An add-on service in the fruit processing line, the release said Apeel’s plant-based protection provides longevity and other benefits for the entire supply chain. For retailers, the release said Apeel affords higher retail margins, 50% less shrink on average, and the ability to maintain ready-to-eat fruit on display. For the end-user, Apeel avocados translate to less at-home spoilage and money loss, according to the release.
“The benefits of the Apeel process extend not only through the store but all the way to the consumer level, as avocado lovers report less food shrink at home,” West Pak Avocado senior vice president of sales and marketing Doug Meyer said in the release. “It’s where that last avocado retains its freshness and does not go bad before it can be consumed. The longevity benefits help the conversation with our retail partners because avocados treated with Apeel last a long time, which equates to consumer loyalty to the retailer. Apeel is a top to bottom win across the entire supply chain!”
