As China’s blueberry industry continues its dual expansion — emerging as both a global leading producer [3] and a major consumer market — its supply chain is encountering unprecedented packaging challenges. Ensuring that delicate blueberries remain in optimal condition throughout long-distance transportation, whether for export or domestic distribution, has become a central industry concern. To address this critical issue, Produce Report recently interviewed Dr. Gary Ward, chief technology officer at StePacPPC [4], a leader in fresh produce packaging solutions, to explore breakthrough strategies.

Ward highlighted three major challenges in blueberry storage and transportation: the berries are highly susceptible to weight loss from moisture evaporation, they are prone to microbial decay when exposed to free moisture, and they are likely to lose their fragile natural “bloom” — the powdery white coating that protects the fruit — during packing and shipping.

For consumers in both domestic and international markets, visual appeal is paramount, and the integrity of the bloom is a primary indicator of freshness and quality. This is not merely about appearance; it directly affects market value. In November of last year, Elizabeth Paredes Cruz of Fiamma Inc., StePacPPC’s distributor in Peru [5], spoke with several Chinese importers and learned that bloom preservation is considered the most critical quality standard for blueberries on the Chinese market — rated even more important than flavor or fruit firmness.

However, traditional packaging methods often fall short in meeting these crucial requirements. Ward further elaborated that while polyolefin-based modified atmosphere packaging, which is commonly used for blueberries, minimizes weight loss owing to its low water vapor transmission rate, it inevitably leads to moisture condensation inside the package. “Controlling weight loss is important,” he noted, “but the disadvantages of condensation far outweigh this benefit. Free moisture not only washes away the natural bloom, diminishing visual appeal, but also significantly increases the risk of microbial decay.”

The Solution: Advanced Polyamide-Based Films

To address these industry challenges, StePacPPC has introduced targeted solutions [6] — Xtend and Xflow — developed through years of research and development in conjunction with field testing. Both are made with high-performance polyamide-based films featuring a higher water vapor transmission rate that effectively manages moisture. When combined with laser-perforation technology to regulate internal gas composition, these solutions can maintain blueberry freshness for up to 45 days in cold storage. They also excel in controlling condensation, protecting the natural bloom, enhancing product appearance, suppressing microbial decay and improving package visibility.

Each solution serves distinct market needs: Xtend bulk bag packaging is ideal for long-term storage and transoceanic shipments; Xtend pallet shrouds support storing fresh blueberries for shorter periods of up to three to four weeks for season extension and shorter shipments; and Xflow is engineered for automated bulk packing, catering to modern operations prioritizing high efficiency and suitable for long-term storage and transoceanic shipments.

On Nov. 25, the International Fresh Produce Association [7] will host an online seminar titled “Freshness Unlocked: How MAP Packaging Extends the Shelf Life of Fresh Fruits and Vegetables.” As an IFPA member, StePacPPC will present its cutting-edge modified atmosphere packaging solutions. Featured speakers Dr. Gary Ward and Ivo Tunchel from the company’s Global Business Development team will cover key topics, including MAP fundamentals, value-added benefits and real-world case studies. Interested parties are invited to register on this website [8].

Images: StePacPPC

This article was translated from Chinese. Read the original article [9].