Advertisement
4. The Cool Journey
Advertisement
Apples start a chilling voyage called the cold chain following the thrills of the packinghouse. From the time the apple leaves the packaging facility until it reaches the consumer, this vital stage in its journey guarantees that the fruit stays fresh and crisp. After packing, the cold chain starts right away, and apples are swiftly transferred into refrigerated storage spaces. Often situated immediately at the orchard or packing house, these specialist storage facilities are made to preserve apples by maintaining ideal temperature and humidity conditions. Most apple types have their recommended storage temperature just above freezing, usually between 30 and 32°F (-1 and 0°C). The apple's natural ripening process slows considerably at these low temperatures, therefore preserving its freshness and extending its shelf life. Apart from temperature control, many contemporary storage facilities also apply controlled atmosphere (CA) technology. The oxygen levels drop in CA storage as the carbon dioxide levels rise. This decreases the apple's respiration rate even more, therefore rendering the fruit essentially in a condition of hibernation. Certain apples can be kept in these circumstances for many months, therefore enabling a year-round supply of fresh apples. The apples are meticulously put into chilled trucks or shipping containers when it comes time for them to depart storage and start their path to market. Temperature-regulated technologies built into these trucks help preserve the cold chain during transportation. Apples that are being transported great distances—especially those being exported internationally—may have several means of travel. They might drive by truck to a seaport, then by ship across the sea, and lastly by vehicle once more to their ultimate location. Maintaining the cold chain is absolutely crucial for this whole trip. Any breaches in the chain where temperatures rise noticeably can cause hastened ripening and lower quality. Tracking the environment of the apples during their trip ensures they reach their destination in the best condition possible with the use of sophisticated temperature monitoring equipment. This fascinating trip is evidence of the sophisticated logistics and technology required to get fresh apples to people all around, regardless of season.
