Many global studies show that while conventional cold storage can preserve produce for 2 to 4 weeks, it often leads to significant loss of moisture and nutrients. In contrast, CA (Controlled Atmosphere) storage maintains flavor, freshness, and nutritional content for 2 to 9 months, extending the harvest season and balancing supply and demand in the market.
What is CA Method? Why is CA Effective?
The CA (Controlled Atmosphere) method involves storing fresh fruits and vegetables in an altered atmospheric environment, differing from natural air (which consists of approximately 21% oxygen, 78% nitrogen, 0.3% carbon dioxide, and trace gases). In a CA environment, the oxygen level is reduced, while nitrogen and carbon dioxide levels are increased. This adjustment slows down respiration rates, inhibits physiological and biochemical processes, and delays ripening and post-harvest metabolic activities. Additionally, the low oxygen levels help control pest infestations.
History and Global Application of CA Technology
In the early 20th century, Franklin Kidd and Cyril West at the University of Cambridge studied the effects of temperature and gas ratios (CO2 and O2) on fruit respiration and ripening. These studies laid the foundation for the widespread application of CA storage in the UK in 1929 and in the US in the early 1950s. Advancements in gas-tight storage technology led to a rapid expansion of CA storage facilities in the US and Canada, moving beyond the initial container-based systems.
By 1997, the state of Washington alone had 67% of its fruit storage facilities using CA technology, according to reports from the Washington State Department of Agriculture and the Washington Apple Commission. The use of CA storage for fruit harvesting, handling, and preservation significantly improved efficiency, reduced labor costs, and contributed to the global growth of CA storage facilities from the 1950s onwards.
CASS Ltd Company
- Hotline/Zalo: 0931790829 – 0931780829
- Email: cass@cass.vn
- Website: cass.vn
- Fanpage: CASS – Kho bảo quản nông sản tươi bằng công nghệ CA
- Address: Lô F5, Đường số 6, KCN Hoà Bình, Huyện Thủ Thừa, Tỉnh Long An
