Food system innovation company Apeel and Robinson Fresh, a division of C.H. Robinson and one of the largest distributors of fresh produce in the world, have now announced their collaboration to bring Apeel-protected limes to European markets. Beginning in June, European retailers will have access to premium, longer-life Persian limes sourced from Robinson Fresh’s BIMA operation in Mexico that stay green, fresh and juicy.
The vegetable-based coating extends the shelf life of the product by ensuring that moisture remains in the product and impeding the penetration of oxygen, which are the main causes of product spoilage. It can be applied to different types of fruits and vegetables. By giving limes more time in the supply chain in this way, the two companies can offer European buyers a fresh and juicy Persian lime from Mexico while avoiding losses throughout the supply chain.
The protection keeps limes in top quality longer, allowing retailers to sell limes that retain their green color and firmness and wilt at a lower rate. Consumers also experience the benefits. In recent studies, at the approximate time limes would be in consumers’ kitchens, there were 33% more intense green limes and 91% fewer wilted limes when compared to traditionally waxed limes.
“We know from consumer research that European shoppers are looking for greener, firmer limes at the time of purchase. With longer-life limes, retailers can give consumers what they’re looking for and create richly colored, richly stocked displays with confidence, while reducing waste. Plus, consumers can buy more, confident that the limes they buy are fresh and will last longer.”
- Erich Klawuhn, Senior Vice President Product
The European expansion of longer-life limes is a continuation of a successful partnership with Robinson Fresh, which has distributed Apeel-protected limes to retailers across the U.S. since 2020. In 2021, Robinson Fresh and Apeel prevented an estimated 1.5 million limes from becoming waste at retail, avoided 110 tons of greenhouse gas emissions and conserved 72 million gallons of water.”[1]
“We are excited to continue building on our ongoing commitment to reduce waste and make the food ecosystem more efficient while providing other ways for retailers to meet their own quality and sustainability needs,” said Michael Castagnetto. “By expanding our capacity, we’re able to open new markets and trade channels around the world, bringing the benefits of longer-lasting, sustainable products to even more retailers and consumers.”
The quality and performance of protected limes proven so far in the U.S. is a clear indicator of the impact the product will soon have across Europe. Data from previous years in the U.S. shows that protected limes stay fresh and green for about 14 days longer than untreated limes, helping to avoid waste and environmental impact. This has provided evidence to retailers in the U.S. that the technologist can serve as a critical component to their sustainability initiatives, while also giving their customers more time, helping them create less waste.
