Two types of cherries are grown: the sweet cherry (Prunus avium L.) and the sour cherry (Prunus cerasus). The sweet cherries are mainly sold immediately after harvesting. CA storage is applied on a small scale and usually with a pallet bag cover system.

A characteristic of cherry freshness is the quality of the stem and fruits. The quality of the fruit at harvest is important for storage options. A uniform product with as little damage as possible is the basis. Moisture loss and aging lead to browning and desiccation of the stem. This should be prevented as much as possible by proper and rapid cooling.

Cherries can be stored around freezing point with the highest possible humidity. Humidification can be applied. Cherries have a limited shelf life and the storage time can be extended with CA storage. A sleeve storage system in which the oxygen and CO2 conditions are regulated is suitable for this. A reduced oxygen content of 3-7% oxygen ensures better retention of firmness.

Cherries have a limited shelf life. They can be stored around freezing point, 0-1°C at normal atmospheric conditions (NA) for 2-3 weeks. Preferably at the highest possible relative humidity. Humidification can be applied.

Controlled Atmosphere has positive effects on the shelf life of cherries. Reducing the oxygen content to a level of 5% promotes the preservation of firmness by reducing the respiration of fruits.

Storage at a higher CO2 content has a positive effect. The cherries retain their fresh appearance better and mold growth is suppressed. Cherries produce little ethylene and are not sensitive to increased ethylene concentrations before they ripen.

With the Storex CA Palletbag system, cherries can be stored in pallet bags where the CA climate is individually controlled for each pallet bag. Check the Pallistore Individual CA system!. The Auto Store CA scheme is expandable to 200-400 covers. Contact Storex for more information.