Termotécnica, one of the largest manufacturers of EPS packaging in Latin America, has highlighted the role post-harvest technology will play the developing fresh table grape trade between Brazil and China.
Authorities form Brazil and China signed a phytosanitary protocol allowing for the export of fresh grapes from Brazil to China in November
Eduardo Brandão, executive director of the Brazilian Association of Exporters of Fruit and Derivatives (Abrafrutas), said while it was important for Brazil to seek new export markets, logistics could be a challenge.
“Brazil exports 70 per cent of its volume to Europe, and it’s important to seek new markets,” he said. “Asia has a huge fruit consumption, however, as it’s a more distant market geographically, there’s also a logistical challenge to be overcome by integrating the cold chain with air and sea operators.”
Termotécnica has worked with Abrafrutas and Brazilian producers for over a decade to enhance fruit exports. The company sees huge potential for Brazilian table grape producers following the announcement.
In June, Termotécnica launched its DaColheita (named FarmFresh in international markets) bio packaging solution. It was the company’s first step in a strategy to expand and complement its raw material matrix with an alternative, renewable (biobased) and biodegradable material.
Termotécnica’s managing director, Nivaldo Fernandes de Oliveira, said the DaColheita packaging solution has already added great value for exporters sending products over long-distances, including the APPC Agro-industrial Cooperative who sent premium grapes to Hong Kong.
According to Termotécnica, DaColheita packaging weighs 60 per cent less than corrugated boxes, which can reduce air freight costs by up to 6 per cent, generating significant savings throughout the chain and thus reducing CO₂ emissions on the planet. The 100 per cent recyclable conservers are also designed to extend shelf-life and help to maintain a consistent temperature for shipped products.
“All the conservation technology and design of our EPS solutions allow our customers to communicate these differences to international markets,” added Termotécnica’s president, Albano Schmidt.
