Introduction

Maintaining the freshness of peonies during long storage and transport is a critical challenge in the floriculture industry. Common problems with peony storage include dehydration, rot, and the rapid spread of botrytis. These issues can significantly reduce the quality and vase life of the flowers, leading to increased waste and customer dissatisfaction. The PerfoTec Liner is the solution for these challenges, widely used by exporters to ensure peonies arrive in optimal condition.

In this article, we share a trial demonstrating the effectiveness of this innovative technology and its significant benefits for the industry. This trial aimed to simulate real-world transport conditions from Chile to the Netherlands, assessing the effectiveness of PerfoTec's technology in preserving peony quality over an extended period. This trial was the basis for the commercial use of our Liner in the peony industry. PerfoTec Liners make it possible to now ship peonies all over the world by sea freight, offering a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative to air freight.

Challenges in Peony Storage and Transport

Botrytis: Botrytis cinerea, commonly known as grey mold, is a significant threat to the storage and transport of peonies. This fungal disease thrives in cool, humid conditions and can quickly spread, causing the flowers to become unsightly and reducing their market value. Botrytis attacks the petals and stems, leading to rotting and discoloration. Preventing botrytis spread is crucial for maintaining the quality of peonies during storage. Traditional methods often fall short, but innovative packaging solutions like PerfoTec Liners offer new hope by creating an optimal environment that inhibits fungal growth.

Sea Freight vs. Air Freight: Transporting peonies over long distances poses another set of challenges. Air freight is fast but expensive, often reserved for high-value shipments that need to arrive quickly. In contrast, sea freight is more economical but slower, exposing flowers to longer periods of potentially damaging conditions. The extended duration of sea transport increases the risk of dehydration, temperature fluctuations, and disease spread, making effective packaging solutions essential. PerfoTec Liners can help mitigate these risks by maintaining a stable internal environment, reducing the need for costly air freight while ensuring flowers arrive in peak condition.

Economic Benefits for Exporters: For exporters, the use of PerfoTec Liners can translate into significant economic advantages. By extending the shelf life and maintaining the quality of peonies, exporters can reduce losses due to spoilage and present a more appealing product to buyers. The ability to use sea freight instead of air freight due to enhanced packaging solutions also offers substantial cost savings. Moreover, a longer shelf life provides more flexibility in logistics, allowing exporters to reach markets that were previously inaccessible due to distance and time constraints.

Sustainability and Environmental Impact: In addition to economic benefits, PerfoTec Liners contribute to sustainability efforts by reducing the need for air freight, which has a higher carbon footprint compared to sea freight. This aligns with the increasing demand for environmentally friendly practices in the floriculture industry. Exporters who adopt PerfoTec Liners can enhance their brand image by promoting their commitment to sustainability, appealing to eco-conscious consumers and businesses.

Trial Overview

Objective: To determine the effectiveness of PerfoTec Liners in extending the shelf life of peonies, specifically the Coral Sunset and Sarah Bernhardt varieties, during storage at 1°C for up to 69 days.

Methodology:

• Samples: Peonies were divided into a control group (loose in a carton box) and test groups using PerfoTec Liners with varying Transmission Values.
• Measurements: Weight, O2, and CO2 levels, and overall quality (visual appearance, color, odor, moisture, rot, and dehydration) were assessed on days 4, 7, 14, 28, 45, 55, and 69.
• Tools: Fast Respiration Meter System 4.0 for respiration rate measurement and optimal micro-perforation pattern calculation.
• Conditions: Industrial production line settings and two vase life tests at 10-16°C starting on days 55 and 69.

Key Findings

Shelf Life Extension:

• Peonies stored in PerfoTec Liners maintained good quality for up to 69 days and exhibited satisfactory flowering for 15 days in a vase post-storage.
• Weight loss was significantly reduced in PerfoTec Liners compared to the control group.

Botrytis Control:

• The spread of botrytis was slower in PerfoTec Liners, as flowers in the control box became weaker more quickly.
• By day 69, peonies in PerfoTec Liners showed no rot, blemish, or significant dehydration, while the control group exhibited notable dehydration, rot, and botrytis from day 14 onwards.

Gas Levels:

• Stable gas levels were maintained across different TV settings, with O2 and CO2 levels being optimal for both varieties.

Visual Quality:

• Visual quality assessments indicated minimal dehydration and better color retention in PerfoTec Liners.
• By day 78, flowers from PerfoTec Liners were more hydrated and vibrant compared to the control group.

Conclusion

The trial conclusively demonstrates that using PerfoTec Liners significantly extends the shelf life of peonies, maintains their quality during storage, and enhances their post-storage vase life. This innovative packaging solution not only mitigates weight loss and dehydration but also curbs the spread of botrytis, ensuring flowers remain fresh and visually appealing for a longer period. This advancement holds great promise for the floriculture industry, particularly for long-distance flower transport, potentially reducing waste and increasing customer satisfaction.

By integrating PerfoTec Liners into the flower supply chain, stakeholders can expect improved flower quality, extended shelf life, and better overall performance in the market.

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