SANTA BARBARA, CA - Amid challenges posed by the East Coast port strike—which was initiated earlier this week on October 1—Apeel Sciences is harnessing its power as a supply chain innovator to support the fresh produce industry. The fresh ally announced it will provide free coating services for suppliers whose shipments may be delayed and at risk of spoilage due to backed-up port operations.

“Perishable goods, particularly fruits and vegetables, are highly vulnerable to delays,” said Luiz Beling, Chief Executive Officer. “The disruptions caused by the strike could create significant bottlenecks for weeks, leading to a global ripple effect similar to what we experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic. What we’re offering suppliers is the gift of time, so that their produce can reach consumers in the best possible condition.”

Apeel’s plant-based coating extends the shelf-life of fruits and vegetables, offering a vital level of protection for the produce currently facing uncertain transportation delays. As supply chain disruptions threaten the availability of fresh produce nationwide, Apeel Sciences’ free coating services offer a vital solution for minimizing waste and keeping healthy foods fresh and accessible to consumers, a press release explained.

In the wake of these transportation disruptions, Apeel will send out a team to work quickly alongside producers’ existing operations to ensure the application process is smooth and non-disruptive.

“We want to make sure we’re there for the produce supplier community when they need us most, so we’re committed to getting our team on site as soon as possible to help protect their products,” Beling noted.

The provider’s innovative plant-based coating extends produce’s shelf-life by reducing oxidation and moisture loss, providing an extra layer of protection for fruit and vegetables. The use of this unique solution can grant suppliers more flexibility in their shipping timelines as the port strike leads to potential delays.

Contact Apeel Sciences today to take advantage of this offer.

For more industry news and port strike updates, keep reading ANUK.