biofresh - Potato sprout supression

The move towards residue-free potato storage has gained momentum with the announcement that Solanum will cease using potatoes treated with CIPC applications for the 2009/2010 season, and in turn is focusing on alternative methods of sprout control, such as the biofresh ethylene management system.

Solanum, exclusive suppliers of potatoes to Waitrose and Co-Op, have been using biofresh ethylene management systems in their stores for five seasons to great effect. With both twin and single-store systems in place at their Sutton Bridge and Kings Lynn sites, Solanum are well-equipped to provide Waitrose and other blue-chip retailers with an ongoing, high-volume supply of CIPC-free potatoes. All suppliers to Solanum will be required to change their storage techniques to reflect the decision to cease the use of CIPC.

This new storage method has been put in place to respond to growing consumer concern regarding the storage methods of fresh produce. The sophisticated biofresh system offers a safe and ethical alternative to CIPC fogging, effectively suppressing sprouting of potatoes in cold storage without the risk of residues.

In light of these developments, recently seven Solanum growers have taken delivery of the new biofresh transportable ethylene management unit which was launched earlier this year. This unit offers the same proven and reliable ethylene system used in our static storage treatment solutions, yet is built into a mobile self-contained frame allowing the system to be transferred between stores.

The response further down the supply chain has been positive also. Alan Wilson, Technical Manager - Agronomy, Waitrose, said: “People are becoming more aware of how their food is stored and where it has come from. It is evident that consumers do not want chemical residues in their food, which is why Waitrose has been working closely with Solanum and biofresh, to offer a consistent supply of CIPC-free potatoes. We are living in a culture of food scares, and it is our responsibility to ensure that consumers are able to access safe, ethical produce.”

Simon Bowen, Technical Director, Solanum, agrees: “As a company concerned with supply chain management, we are committed to sourcing innovative solutions to satisfy the needs of our customers and their consumers. We pride ourselves on staying one step ahead of the game, which is why we have been using the sophisticated biofresh system for quite some time now. Our positive experience and knowledge of the system has enabled us to completely eradicate CIPC treatments on potatoes, and fully embrace this innovative technology in all of our stores.”