Key Takeaways
- TransFRESH Corporation, a Chiquita Holdings subsidiary, has acquired Hazel Technologies, integrating its Breatheway membrane MAP technology into TransFRESH's operations.
- The immediate focus is enhancing TransFRESH's Tectrol pallet bag system for the berry industry using Hazel's modified atmosphere packaging capabilities.
- Breatheway is a temperature-responsive membrane that dynamically adjusts package breathability during transit and storage.
- The company also brings banana and tropical fruit solutions, creating synergy opportunities across Chiquita Holdings' global supply chain.
- Harrison Co. was the exclusive financial advisor to Hazel Technologies; no financial terms were disclosed.
TransFRESH Acquires Hazel Technologies to Strengthen Post-Harvest Freshness Platform
TransFRESH Corporation, a subsidiary of Chiquita Holdings Limited, has completed the acquisition of Hazel Technologies. The transaction integrates Hazel's Breatheway membrane technology and post-harvest expertise into TransFRESH's operations, which center on shelf-life solutions for the global fresh produce supply chain. The immediate operational priority is enhancing TransFRESH's Tectrol pallet bag system for the berry industry through the company's modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) capabilities.
“This acquisition represents a pivotal milestone in our strategy to develop and operate the industry's most advanced freshness technologies. By integrating Hazel Technologies into the TransFRESH organization, we are strengthening the future of our berry operations through proven, scalable scientific innovation. In addition, Hazel's established solutions for bananas and tropical fruits create valuable opportunities for the broader Chiquita organization to further enhance quality, efficiency, and sustainability across multiple commodity categories,” said John P. Olivo, President of TransFRESH Corporation.
How Hazel Technologies' Breatheway Technology Works
Hazel Technologies' Breatheway system is a membrane-based MAP solution that regulates oxygen and carbon dioxide levels within packaging environments to maintain product integrity and extend freshness. The membrane dynamically adjusts package breathability in response to temperature fluctuations during transit and storage, keeping atmospheric conditions calibrated to produce respiration rates under varying logistical conditions. The system targets reductions in food waste and improved supply chain reliability for berry producers, shippers, and retailers.
Tropical Fruit Applications and Chiquita Synergies
Beyond the berry sector, Hazel Technologies brings existing solutions for bananas and tropical fruits, including capabilities for long-term banana storage and ripening management. TransFRESH described these as a strategic opportunity for the broader Chiquita Holdings organization rather than an immediate operational priority. Harrison Co. served as exclusive financial advisor to Hazel Technologies in the transaction. No financial terms were disclosed.
