Australian technology prevents avocado browning

In a breakthrough for the avocado industry, an Australian company has developed a processing technology which stops browning of freshly cut avocado and prolongs shelf life for a minimum of 10 days.

Naturo All Natural Technologies’ Natavo Zero technology switches off the enzyme responsible for the fruit’s browning via pressure fluctuations generated by steam, preventing browning of cut or pulped avocado for a minimum of 10 days when refrigerated, even after packaging is opened.

The natural process preserves the nutritional properties and taste of the avocado, without chemicals, additives, preservatives or processing aids, while meeting food safety standards.

The technology is capable of processing any cut of avocado or avocado pulp at the rate of about 4000 avocado fruits/hour via a machine Naturo has fondly named the ‘Avocado Time Machine’.

Naturo Director Jeff Hastings said that the technology has the potential to become the new industry standard.

“By understanding the avocado’s life cycle and the complex correlation of enzymes involved in the browning process, we have made it possible for the world to enjoy 100% natural, ready-to-eat avocado slices, dices, chunks or pulped products while retaining the flavour and fresh taste of avocado, without browning,” he said.

Director Frank Schreiber said that the arrival of the technology would open up new markets and new opportunities for fresh and frozen avocado products.

“Although there is a range of avocado products currently on the market, nearly all of them contain additives such as antioxidants, acids and preservatives which not only alter the taste of the fruit but do very little to stop the browning once the packaging is opened.

“Our Natavo Zero process and machinery complies with all international food safety standards, including US FDA standards, and can even satisfy organic certification in its country of operation.”

Hastings said the relatively high cost of avocados, combined with the fruit’s short shelf life, makes it a challenge to incorporate the fruit into a daily diet, especially in countries which have no access to fresh avocados.

The company said an Australian processor will be the first to use the technology, with products expected to be launched later this year.