Long Life Solutions has also been working on developing its own ‘smart’ technology for fruit and vegetables over the last three years. Andrew Wright says his company’s new Smartbag and Smartpunnet could prolong the shelf life of fresh produce and is a very good alternative for keeping tomatoes fresh. “Our LLS smartbag/ smartpunnet is an organic solution and our technology allows the tomatoes to breath naturally within the pack,” Wright says. “When the tomato breaths in O2 and release CO2, our anti bacteria solution kicks in, killing all mould spores and bacteria. Alternative technologies like SmartFresh require gases to be injected into the process.”

Wright says that the package is the most permeable available and has a membrane which manages gas exchanges, allowing the produce to create an atmosphere it is most comfortable with. He is confident that using the packaging in conjunction with the company’s new anti-bacteria formula, LLS will revolutionise the tomato supply chain by eliminating and reducing wastage, improving quality and nutrient value giving the consumer a better eating experience.



With the ability to extend the freshness of tomatoes by up to 40 days, depending on varieties, Wright says the effects on the supply chain would be major: “It could eliminate air freight and controlled atmosphere storage and distribution which is not so environmentally friendly and is more expensive,” he says. Trials for the packaging are currently underway with the Greenery in Holland and Writtle University and the company hopes commercial trials will start with several major retailers within the next few months.