Food tech from Poland has a solution that can retain champignon freshness for 14 days. New trials commissioned by Fresh Inset indicated also that its technology slows down mushroom browning. This advancement may empower the industry to improve profitability by extending the shelf-life of fresh mushrooms. This technology can contribute to the global food waste battle.
In 2021, the global mushroom market was valued at USD 50.3 billion, with a projected steady growth rate of 9.7% annually from 2022 to 2030. Champignon mushrooms are a significant part of this market. Poland is a key player on the international stage for champignon mushroom production. Every third champignon exported worldwide comes from Poland - the value of exports in 2021 amounted to 397.3 million euros and it has been on a growing path.
"We are happy to announce that Vidre+™ technology has ushered mushrooms into the same realm of extended freshness, as it has for a number of fruits and vegetables. A recent university study showed the powers of our technology in maintaining the quality of sliced mushrooms (Agaricus bisporus) during storage. The advantages of employing timed and gradual 1-MCP-release Vidre+™ stickers encompass a reduction in weight loss, safeguarding against browning throughout shelf life, preservation of firmness and protection of Vitamin C content that all add up to enhanced overall shelf life quality" - says Tim Malefyt, CTO at Fresh Inset.
Vidre+™ technology represents an innovative, patented system designed to facilitate the gradual and timed release of 1-MCP from the packaging itself, spanning a 30-hour period using a simple sticker inside of the packaging. This state-of-the-art approach is activated by the humidity present within the packaged product. The technology is a defense mechanism against post-harvest deterioration of produce.
Currently in use in Argentina, Vidre+™ technology is securing regulatory approval in essential food production markets across the Americas, Africa, and Europe. By harnessing the potential advantages of Vidre+™, the company aspires to establish a novel standard for post-harvest preservation within the food industry.
Trials on mushrooms were commissioned by Fresh Inset and led in Poland by professor Dorota Wichrowska from the University of Science and Technology in Bydgoszcz and reported in her research report: “Assessment of the impact of using different doses of 1-MCP in Vidre+™ technology on the commercial value and quality characteristics of whole and sliced mushrooms (Agaricus bisporus)”, January 2023.
The research has shown the positive effect of using Vidre+™ technology on protecting mushroom quality. The sliced mushrooms treated with 1-MCP retained their commercial value for 14 days, while whole mushrooms for 20 days after harvest. The use of Vidre+™ stickers has had a positive impact on retention of firmness, smaller weight loss, and smaller changes of vitamin C in comparison to untreated whole and sliced mushrooms.
If you are eager to expand your knowledge about Vidre+™ technology get in touch: krzysztof.czaplicki@freshinset.com.
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