West Pak Avocado Adds Apeel for Ultimate Longevity
MURRIETA, CA - A perfectly ripened avocado is one of the hallmarks of the produce ailse, and consumers continue coming back for more. To help ensure the longevity of its delicious fruits, West Pak Avocado has announced its partnership with Apeel to implement its plant-based protection solution. In this collaboration, both companies will not only advance the avocado category and provide high-quality fruits to consumers, but will cut down on food waste, a growing challenge across the globe.
“I have no doubt that the Apeel process will resonate with many of our key retail partners,” said West Pak Avocado CEO Mario Pacheco. “It dovetails perfectly with our best practices with sustainability and our no-waste, no-hunger goal. We are actively applying the process for both Mexico and California programs in the western states and already have plans in motion for expanded distribution throughout the country.”
Apeel’s edible coating provides longevity and other benefits throughout the entire supply chain. As noted in a release for West Pak, the Apeel solution creates higher retail margins and 50 percent less shrink on average.
By increasing the shelf-life of the company’s avocados, Apeel also creates a longer window for keeping the fruit on display, increasing merchandising opportunities.
“The benefits of the Apeel process extend not only through the store but all the way to the consumer level as avocado lovers report less food shrink at home. It’s where that last avocado retains its freshness and does not go bad before it can be consumed,” added West Pak Avocado Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing Doug Meyer. “The longevity benefits help the conversation with our retail partners because avocados treated with Apeel last a long time, which equates to consumer loyalty to the retailer. Apeel is a top to bottom win across the entire supply chain!”
The coating that will now be applied to West Pak avocados helps keep moisture in and oxygen out—two of the primary causes of spoilage.
This increase in longevity will translate to less spoilage and money loss for both buyers and consumers as their avocados will stay riper longer, giving them more time to enjoy the tasty fruit.
“We’re excited to work with West Pak to extend avocado shelf-life and reduce food waste for our retail partners, and ultimately, the consumer at home,” said Apeel Vice President of Product Erich Klawuhn. “Apeel’s plant-based protection slows oxidation and water loss, and as a result, avocados with Apeel last two times longer.”
How will Apeel continue to expand its footprint in fresh produce? Stick with AndNowUKnow for the answers.