In recent years, climate change–related heatwaves have been creating new challenges for table grape growers, says Yagmur Ozbutun, Export Area Executive at Ser Pak Packaging: "Although no significant drop in grape yields has been reported yet, experts warn that rising temperatures may negatively affect grape development and quality. As a result, producers are beginning to focus not only on the growing process, but also on post-harvest protection strategies. Table grapes are highly sensitive to changes in temperature and humidity. Excessive heat can lead to smaller berries, stem drying, and discoloration, all of which reduce overall product quality. Moreover, high temperatures can create uncertainty in production volumes, affecting supply consistency."
© Serpak Ambalaj
In such an environment, preserving the quality of the harvested crop becomes even more critical, Ozbutun explains. "When yield is at risk, producers aim to protect what they've already harvested in order to minimize losses. Maintaining product quality is essential both economically and in terms of consumer satisfaction. Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP) technology offers an effective solution for prolonging the freshness of table grapes. By regulating oxygen and carbon dioxide levels within the package, MAP slows down the respiration rate of the fruit, thereby extending shelf life. In Turkey, one of the prominent MAP producers, Serpak, offers a specialized solution called Prolong, developed specifically for post-harvest grape protection.
© Serpak Ambalaj
According to Ozbutun, MAP systems are particularly beneficial for long-distance transport, helping to reduce product losses during shipping: "They also aid in inventory management at retail and contribute to reducing food waste. Prolong stands out for its ability to maintain grape firmness and color during transit, making it a trusted choice among exporters. Additionally, it supports cold chain logistics by helping stabilize product condition throughout transportation."
"Operating through our BRCGS-certified facilities, we're committed to maintaining the freshness of table grapes from vineyard to shelf. With the growing risks posed by rising temperatures, investing in effective packaging technologies is becoming increasingly important. Although large-scale yield losses due to heat have not yet been widely observed, producers are closely monitoring climate trends. For many, implementing reliable post-harvest solutions like MAP has become an essential step toward protecting quality and minimizing financial risk."
© Serpak Ambalaj
"As climate conditions become more unpredictable, post-harvest protection methods are gaining priority in the table grape industry. MAP technologies provide a proven way to preserve freshness, and with innovative solutions like Prolong, producers are better equipped to maintain both product quality and value in a changing environment," Ozbutun concludes.
For more information:
Yagmur Ozbutun
Ser Pak Packaging
Tel: +90 533 073 70 98
[email protected]
https://www.serpak.com.tr/en