An Insight Into Shipping Fresh Produce By Sea

The global trade in fresh produce is a critical link in our food supply chain. Every day, vast quantities of fresh produce are shipped by sea so that consumers worldwide can have access to a diverse range of fruits and vegetables, regardless of the season or local growing conditions. Maritime shipping plays a pivotal role in this trade, offering a cost-effective solution for transporting large volumes of produce over long distances.

However, not all fruits and vegetables are equally suited for withstanding the rigors of a sea voyage. Extended journeys necessitate meticulous selection and handling practices to ensure fresh arrival at their destination. So, which produce thrives on ocean journeys, and how can it be shipped efficiently?

Let’s explore the nuances of shipping fresh produce by sea in detail.

Harvesting and Pre-Cooling

The journey of fresh produce begins at the farm, where fruits and vegetables are carefully harvested at their optimal ripeness. Produce destined for long ocean voyages is carefully selected for ripeness and durability. Fruits and vegetables picked slightly underripe will continue to mature during transport, arriving at their peak freshness. Additionally, some produce is treated with a harmless edible wax coating to minimize water loss.

Immediately after harvesting, the produce undergoes a pre-cooling process. This step is essential to remove field heat and slow down metabolic processes that can lead to spoilage. Techniques such as forced-air cooling, hydrocooling, and vacuum cooling are employed to rapidly reduce the temperature of the produce.

Packaging and Palletization

Once pre-cooled, the produce is packed into specially designed containers. Packaging is crucial to protect the produce from physical damage and contamination. The materials used are often breathable to allow for air circulation, which helps maintain the desired temperature and humidity levels. The packed produce is then palletized, which involves arranging boxes onto pallets to maximize space utilization while ensuring stability during transport. Some fruits, like apples, release ethylene gas, which can accelerate ripening in other produce. To prevent this, they might be placed in separate compartments within the container.

Controlled Atmosphere Containers

One of the most significant advancements in sea freight for fresh produce is the use of controlled atmosphere (CA) containers. These specialized containers regulate temperature, humidity, and gas concentrations (oxygen, carbon dioxide, and nitrogen) to create an ideal environment for preserving the freshness of the produce. By slowing down respiration and delaying ripening, CA containers extend the shelf life of fruits and vegetables, making it possible to ship them over long distances without compromising quality.

Refrigeration and Monitoring

Maintaining a consistent temperature is critical for preserving the quality of fresh produce during transit. Refrigerated containers, or reefers, are equipped with advanced cooling systems that keep the temperature within a specified range. Modern reefers also come with real-time monitoring systems that allow shippers to track temperature, humidity, and other vital parameters throughout the journey. Any deviations can be promptly addressed to prevent spoilage.

Loading and Stowage

The loading process is another crucial step in the sea freight journey. Produce must be loaded into containers with care to prevent damage and ensure proper air circulation. The containers are then stowed in the ship’s hold, where they are secured to prevent movement during transit. Proper stowage is essential to maintain the stability of the cargo and ensure that the refrigeration systems can operate effectively.

Transit and Handling

During the sea journey, the ship’s crew continuously monitors the condition of the cargo. Any issues, such as equipment malfunctions or deviations in temperature, are addressed immediately to protect the produce. Upon arrival at the destination port, the produce undergoes careful handling to avoid physical damage. Efficient logistics and swift customs clearance are vital to minimize delays and ensure that the produce reaches its final destination in the freshest possible condition.

Post-Arrival Processing

Once the produce arrives at the destination, it is transported to distribution centers or directly to retailers. Here, the produce might undergo additional quality checks, repackaging, and labeling before it reaches consumers. The goal is to ensure that the produce retains its freshness and nutritional value until it is purchased and consumed.

Sea-freight Friendly Produce

Produce best suited for sea freight share certain key characteristics:  

• Slower Ripening Times: Fruits like pomelo and tamarind have slower ripening processes, making them ideal candidates for sea travel. Their extended shelf life allows them to remain fresh over longer distances.
• Thicker Skins or Rinds: Coconuts and ginger benefit from a protective layer that shields them from bumps and bruises encountered during transport.
• Firm Flesh: Root vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and onions offer a dense structure that resists spoilage.

Common examples of sea-shipped fruits and vegetables include:

• Citrus Fruits: Oranges, grapefruits, lemons, and limes are frequent ocean travelers, thanks to their long shelf life and protective rinds.
• Stone Fruits: Peaches, plums, and nectarines can be shipped by sea if harvested slightly underripe to allow for ripening during the journey.
• Tropical Fruits: Pineapples, select mango varieties, and papayas can handle long voyages with proper handling and temperature control.
• Root Vegetables: Carrots, beets, and sweet potatoes, thanks to their durability and long shelf life.
• Cruciferous Vegetables: Cabbages, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts, which are less prone to rapid spoilage.

Fresh Connect – A Leading Exporter In Thailand

Founded in 1995, Fresh Connect is a leading exporter and supplier of fruits and vegetables from Thailand, delivering high-quality produce to markets around the world. Our sea-shipped produce includes ginger, tamarind, pomelo (red and white), and coconut. In addition to these fresh items, we also offer freeze-dried products such as durian, mango, mangosteen, kaffir lime leaves, and dried lemongrass, all of which are shipped by sea.

Tailored Solutions and Certifications

We specialize in custom packaging and labels to enhance brand visibility in the global market. Fresh Connect is certified under GMP, HACCP, Global G.A.P., and SMETA guidelines, ensuring top quality and safety. 

We take pride in our extensive global reach, supplying fresh produce to a variety of markets. In Europe, our vegetables are EL Plants-certified, ensuring they meet the strictest quality standards. We also cater to North America, currently shipping ginger and coconuts by sea to the United States and Canada. Additionally, our supply chain also extends to the Middle East, showcasing our ability to adapt to diverse regional requirements.

Contact Us Today

Shipping fresh produce by sea is a complex but essential part of global trade. It offers a cost-effective and environmentally friendly solution for moving large quantities of food. Companies like Fresh Connect play a crucial role in this ecosystem, ensuring that consumers around the world have access to high-quality fruits and vegetables. 

Contact us today to learn more about how we can support you.