Apple, a favourite among consumers is also a commercially important fruit for farmers and distributors. To ensure that producers get the best ROI post-harvest and consumers equally enjoy the flavoursome fruit at any time of the year, cold storage for apples has become a crucial component of post-harvest management.
Usually, after harvesting, apples undergo a series of steps before reaching the end customer including pre-cooling, grading, storing, packaging, transportation, and finally marketing.
How to Store Apples: Everything You Need to Know About Cold Storage
Pre-Cooling: The First Step
Before storing apples, we give them a quick chill with our specialized pre-cooling equipment. This process reduces their temperature, slowing down respiration and metabolism to preserve quality and reduce the load on our cold storage systems.
Refrigeration Equipment: The Heart of Cold Storage
Our cold storage systems are powered by efficient and reliable compressors, condensers, evaporators, and expansion valves. These work in harmony to maintain a consistent temperature inside the cold room, ensuring your apples stay fresh for longer.
Temperature and Humidity Control: Key to Freshness
Apples thrive in a cool environment with a touch of humidity. We maintain optimal storage conditions of 0-5°C and 80-90% humidity, which slows down decay and respiration rates, extending the storage life of your apples.
Ventilation and Air Exchange: Breathe Easy
Regular ventilation in our cold storage facilities helps maintain a healthy environment for your apples. It reduces CO2 levels, increases oxygen, and keeps the air fresh, all while being gentle on your apples.
Stacking and Inspection: Careful Handling
Stack apples carefully to minimize damage and infection. Regular inspections monitor the condition of the apples, so that any issues can addressed promptly.
Final Words
Cold storage for apples is an essential part of post-harvest management. With the right storage conditions and cold storage facilities, farmers and producers can not only reap maximum profits but also ensure customer satisfaction with quality produce.