Ethylene generators: safe, affordable, and effective method for fruit ripening

Ethylene, a natural plant hormone, plays a crucial role in the ripening process of fruits such as avocados, bananas, tomatoes and many other tropical fruits. To ensure a consistent supply of ready-to-eat fruit throughout the year, ripening rooms create optimal conditions (time, temperature, ventilation, humidity, airflow, and ethylene exposure). Among the various methods available for fruit ripening, using generators and ethylene concentrate proves to be a safe and cost-effective solution.

Catalytic Generators, certified by both UL® and TÜV, offers unparalleled safety in ethylene production. These generators have been rigorously tested and found to be free from any foreseeable risk of fire, electrical shock, or related hazards. Steve Page, Vice President of the manufacturer, highlights their design, which prevents the use of explosive amounts of ethylene in ripening rooms.

One significant advantage of using generators is the elimination of the need for a gas distribution network, ethylene mixing stations, and injection points. Building such infrastructure can be costly, ranging from approximately €22,000.00 to over €50,000.00 per project, in addition to yearly fees for cylinder deposits and gas. In contrast, with generators, the cost is limited to the generator itself and the yearly supply of concentrate, making it a highly affordable solution, especially for new projects.

Renowned grocery chains, wholesalers, and packers like Chiquita, Del Monte, Dole, Calavo, Fyffes, Mission, Walmart, Wegmans, West Coast Tomato, Meijer, Rainier, Metro, and Stemilt rely on ethylene management solutions from Catalytic Generators. These solutions have gained the trust of industry leaders due to their effectiveness and reliability.

For those taking their first steps in fruit ripening, valuable tips and guidance are available from Catalytic Generators.

If you are interested in the use of Ethylene Generators and Ethy-Gen II Concentrate in your ripening rooms, please send an inquiry