Organic Produce Wash Keeps Crops from Spoiling

The United Nation’s Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) estimates that one-third of global food production is either wasted or goes uneaten. In a 2014 report, the FAO found that in the U.S. alone, an estimated 31% of the food available for consumption at the retail and consumer levels was thrown away. It also stated that if farm-to-retail level losses were included, the estimate would be even higher.

While modern refrigeration units, transportation methods and scientifically researched packaging help prolong the shelf life of highly perishable crops, the reality is a significant portion of perishable food still ends up in the garbage.

A new all-natural product has been proven in a variety of studies to help prolong the lifespan of fruits and vegetables while eliminating the need for chemicals in the post-harvest wash process. Prolonging the lifespan of fruits and vegetables adds time to the supply chain, allowing the fruit and vegetables time to make it to market while still fresh.  Biowish Fruit & Vegetable Wash is an organic enzyme-based product that keeps fruits and vegetables looking fresh for weeks longer than untreated produce, the company said, adding that it is organic, all-natural, and safe for everyday use in all commercial fruit and vegetable wash systems. Biowish ingredients consist of active microbial cultures and dextrose to increase crop storage life, provide for cleaner fruits and vegetables, eliminate latex issues, improve wash and discharge water quality, and reduce wash process chemicals, wash odors, water and energy use and cleaning and labor.

In a recent case study, Biowish was used to treat bananas post-harvest. One group of banana clusters was treated with a traditional aluminum sulfate wash to eliminate latex and dust. Nine days after treatment, the bananas washed with aluminum sulfate were yellowed and had brown spots, while the bananas treated with Biowish Fruit & Vegetable Wash were green and had fewer post-harvest defects, the company said.

For best results, a wash water pH above 5.5 is recommended. The wash tank should be dosed during production hours and into a cleaned system. Biowish will not operate effectively in the presence of high concentrations of some chemical products such as disinfectants. Application rate is dependent on system type and management practices. Biowish Fruit and Vegetable Wash is available in a variety of sizes to meet different application needs. For more information, visit www.biowishtechnologies.com.