KALPAKA AGRI FARMERS PRODUCER COMPANY is a dynamic and forward-thinking agricultural enterprise that is proud to be incorporated under the Government of India, Ministry of Corporate Affairs, and operates in full compliance with the Companies Act of 2013.
Cold Storage House
Cold Storage House
Operating cold storage facilities for vegetables and fruits is a crucial aspect of ensuring the quality, safety, and extended shelf life of perishable agricultural products. The “KALPAKA AGRI FARMERS PRODUCER COMPANY (KAFPCO)” manage cold storage units to meet these objectives. Here’s how KAFPCO could handle cold storage for vegetables and fruits:
1. Cold Storage Facilities
KAFPCO invests in modern cold storage facilities equipped with temperature and humidity control systems. These facilities are designed to accommodate a variety of fruits and vegetables.
2. Harvest and Sorting
After harvest, vegetables and fruits are carefully sorted to remove damaged, overripe, or low-quality produce. Only premium-quality items are selected for cold storage.
3. Pre-Cooling
Before entering cold storage, the produce undergoes pre-cooling, which rapidly lowers its temperature. This step is essential to prevent moisture loss and maintain freshness.
4. Temperature and Humidity Control
KAFPCO invests in modern cold storage facilities equipped with temperature and humidity control systems. These facilities are designed to accommodate a variety of fruits and vegetables.
5. Packaging
Produce is usually packaged in appropriate containers or packaging materials to protect it during storage. Packaging may include crates, boxes, or wrapping, depending on the product.
6. Ethylene Control
Some fruits, like apples and bananas, produce ethylene gas, which can accelerate ripening and affect the surrounding produce. KAFPCO may employ ethylene control measures to prevent unwanted ripening.
7. Inventory Management
KAFPCO maintains a meticulous inventory system to track the quantity and condition of the stored fruits and vegetables. This ensures efficient rotation and minimizes product losses.
8. Quality Monitoring
Regular quality checks are performed on the stored produce. Any signs of spoilage, mold, or decay are promptly addressed to prevent contamination of other items.
9. Controlled Atmosphere Storage (Optional)
Depending on the types of fruits and vegetables stored, KAFPCO might employ controlled atmosphere storage, which allows them to control oxygen, carbon dioxide, and humidity levels to extend shelf life.
10. Periodic Inspections
Regular inspections and maintenance of the cold storage equipment are crucial to ensure it functions optimally and maintains the desired temperature and humidity levels.
11. Distribution Planning
KAFPCO plans the distribution of stored produce based on market demand and customer orders. Proper rotation ensures that older products are distributed first.
12. Export and Local Sales
KAFPCO may supply cold-stored vegetables and fruits to local markets and also export them to international buyers, thus expanding their market reach.
13. Sustainability Practices
The company may implement sustainable practices, such as energy-efficient cold storage technology and responsible waste management, to reduce environmental impact.
14. Traceability and Compliance
KAFPCO maintains detailed records and ensures compliance with food safety and quality regulations. This includes traceability to identify the origin of stored products.
Managing cold storage for vegetables and fruits is essential for KAFPCO to preserve the quality of its agricultural products, reduce post-harvest losses, and meet the demands of local and global markets. It also contributes to stabilizing the supply of these perishable goods year-round.