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Explore questions about our coatings, their application and how we work with pilot partners.
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A closer look at ARPOSO.
ARPOSO’s coatings are developed for fruits, vegetables and cut flowers. Roses are being prioritised for initial commercialisation, while food applications remain under development.
25 questions across 5 topics
Product
What is ARPOSO’s coating designed to do?
A thin protective film is formed on the product’s surface to help maintain freshness, preserve visual quality and extend shelf life.
What is the coating made from?
Plant-derived biopolymers are used in water-based formulations tailored to each application.
Are appearance, taste or texture affected?
No noticeable changes in colour, surface finish, taste or texture, and no visible coating residue, were observed in qualification tests on the products assessed.
Can the coating be removed?
Yes. The water-soluble coating can be washed off with water. It is designed to remain on the surface during storage, transport and display.
Is the coating intended to be eaten?
Coatings for produce eaten with its skin are being developed for edible use; suitability is still being assessed. For produce peeled before eating, the coating is intended to be discarded with the peel. Flower formulations are intended for ornamental use only.
Application
How is the coating applied?
The coating is applied by spraying or dipping. The method and dosage are selected according to the product and handling process.
When should the coating be applied?
It can be applied after harvest, at a suitable point between production and retail. The application stage is selected with each partner to target potential losses.
Is special equipment required?
Existing spraying or dipping equipment may be used, subject to compatibility checks. Any necessary adjustments are identified during qualification.
How is drying time determined?
Drying time is influenced by dosage, temperature, humidity and airflow. Suitable conditions are established during qualification.
Can the coating be combined with existing treatments?
Compatibility with washing, sanitising, hydration and other post-harvest treatments is assessed for each process.
Performance
Which products have been tested?
Roses, tomatoes, blueberries, bananas, cucumbers, mangoes, bell peppers, avocados, parsley and sprouts have been included in trials.
What results have been observed?
In selected internal trials, treated samples retained freshness for up to five times as long as untreated controls under the same test conditions. Fruit assessments also include water content, firmness, texture and taste.
Can the same improvement be expected for every product?
No. Performance is influenced by product type, variety, initial quality, application and storage conditions. Formulations and application methods are tailored to customer requirements and validated through testing.
Can refrigeration be replaced by the coating?
The coating is intended to be used alongside appropriate storage and handling. Any changes to cooling, humidity or packaging must be validated separately.
How is performance measured?
Treated and untreated products are compared under the same conditions. Freshness, visible deterioration and the period suitable for sale or display are monitored.
Pilots
Who are pilots intended for?
Pilots are intended for growers, packers, importers, wholesalers and retailers handling flowers or fresh produce. Availability is determined by the application and development stage.
How is a pilot organised?
Requirements are reviewed, a small qualification test is conducted and a larger paid pilot is agreed where appropriate.
How are responsibilities divided?
The coating, trial guidance and results evaluation are provided by ARPOSO. Representative products, operating information and agreed support are provided by the partner. Responsibilities are confirmed before testing.
How is pilot duration determined?
Duration is determined by the product, storage cycle and number of trial rounds. The schedule and success criteria are agreed in advance.
Are pilots offered free of charge?
Selected small qualification tests may be offered free of charge. Larger pilots are charged, with fees and additional expenses agreed before testing begins.
Supply
Which formats can be supplied?
Water-based liquid and dried powder for mixing with water can be supplied. The format is selected according to the application and transport requirements.
How should the coating be stored?
Storage conditions are specified for each formulation.
How is the coating’s shelf life determined?
Shelf life is being established through ongoing stability testing. Storage limits and the usable period after mixing are assessed for each formulation.
How can samples or supply be arranged?
Product type, intended application, location and expected volume are reviewed. Sample availability and suitable trial or supply arrangements are then confirmed.
How are prices and minimum order quantities determined?
Prices and minimum quantities are agreed individually according to formulation, format and volume. Pilot fees and subsequent supply prices are quoted separately.
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