Hazel Technologies Launches New USDA-Funded Product, Hazel® Cherry
CHICAGO, IL - Hazel Technologies is looking to make every cherry season from here on out the very best it can be. This week, the USDA-funded company debuted and launched its new post-harvest technology, Hazel® Cherry. Prior to its launch, Hazel Technologies piloted the technology with cherry packers in the Pacific Northwest and worked with Cornell University to ensure the product was truly ensuring excellent fruit quality.
“We are grateful for the partnership of our trial partners in the Pacific Northwest and look forward to continued adaption and success for packers and retailers using Hazel Cherry in their supply chains,” said Aidan Mouat, CEO and Co-Founder of Hazel Technologies.
The Hazel Cherry product consists of a quarter-sized biodegradable and food-safe packaging insert that is placed in boxes during the packing process. In the 2018 season, cherry packers in the Pacific Northwest tested out the tech, while Cornell University underwent a month-long study. According to a press release, both found that Hazel Cherry helps protect stem quality, reduce pitting, and minimize the probability of decay in commercial fresh cherry varieties.
“Our study showed using Hazel Cherry compared to an untreated control can result in better stem quality, lower decay, and lower rate of pitting in the ‘Royal’ cherry variety,” added Cornell University Professor Chris Watkins.
While heavily exported, cherries are notorious for being difficult, particularly when it comes to quality. Specifically, stem quality, pitting, and decay are challenges that fresh cherry packers and shippers consistently face. However, with the Hazel Cherry technology, cherry growers everywhere will have a solution to the tricky fruit.
“We are constantly looking for the newest technologies to help ensure the highest level of quality. In 2018, we used Hazel Cherry on our export grade cherries and had excellent quality arrivals in Asia,” said Deidre Baumgarten, Manager of Polehn Farms, a The Dalles, Oregon-based company, after trialing Hazel Cherry.
For the upcoming 2019 season, further academic trials studying Hazel Cherry are planned, so be on the lookout for more juicy details coming soon. For more information, click here, and for more fresh produce news, stick around AndNowUKnow for the latest.
