“One of the biggest advancements in storage for fruit is the switch from synthetic to natural coolants” states Frank van de Geijn of Fruit Bewaring & Advies. With years of work experience in DLV Consultancy and Wageningen Univeristy Research He founded his own business, Fruit Bewaring & Advies which is located in the Netherlands this year. Frank is now in charge of new construction projects and provides advice on current cooling systems. “I think about that 50% of cold storage have to be converted the natural refrigerants to those made of synthetic.”

The switch to natural coolants, such as CO2 propane, CO2, or ammonia is essential as the Dutch government is seeking to reduce and eliminate the use of synthetic F gas. Frank insists that the transition to natural coolants will require a significant change. “It usually requires a completely fresh refrigeration system,” Frank says.

Cooling systems that use synthetic refrigerants can be between 20 and 25 years in age. However, there is not a rush to replace these in the event that they are still working. If leaks occur however, some companies employ recycled synthetic material examples, such as common R404A or R507 coolants. “From 2025 only recycled material can be utilized, but from 2030, they will be banned,” Frank explains. Frank does not anticipate that all older systems will be replaced, as it costs more to cool using natural refrigerants.

The switch into contract-cooling is yet another trend. “Many cultivators choose to use this as investing in house refrigeration has become unprofitable.” But, costs for energy have risen dramatically in the wake of the Ukraine crises, makes it hard for contract coolers to provide reasonable costs. “With rising energy costs the growers are able to self-cool for cheaper costs, particularly when the system has diminished,” Frank points out.

The loss of moisture in storage for fruit is attracting the attention of. “Over the last fifteen years, our knowledge of the loss of moisture as a key quality indicator has developed.” In particular, it has been observed that the pears thrive in a warmer, more humid refrigerated area and apples, who lose the most moisture, are best kept in climates that are less humid. “With apple varieties like Kanzi, Boskoop, or Elstar we make sure that the cooling system does not get too moist to stop the loss of moisture,” Frank concludes.

When you closely monitor cooling patterns it is possible to spot small problems early and contribute to the maintenance of quality in fruit. Frank believes that the future of storage for fruit in a large part on enhancing sustainable practices, optimizing energy usage as well as maintaining quality of the product.

Frank van de Geijn

Fruit Bewaring and ADVIES

Keizerstraat 8A

4064 ED Varik

[email protected]

www.fruitbewaring.nl

M: +31 6 10 93 51 58