Humidification of produce involves the controlled addition of moisture to the environment where fruits, vegetables, and other perishable goods are stored. Proper humidification is crucial in the post-harvest handling and storage of produce to maintain freshness, reduce weight loss, minimize shrivelling, and prevent other quality issues associated with dehydration. The goal is to create an optimal storage environment by controlling the relative humidity (RH) levels. Here are key considerations:

Importance of Humidification in Produce Storage:

1. Reducing Weight Loss:
   • Fruits and vegetables naturally lose moisture through respiration and transpiration processes. Humidification helps slow down the rate of water loss, preventing produce from becoming dehydrated and maintaining its weight.
2. Minimizing Shriveling and Wrinkling:
   • Maintaining adequate humidity levels helps prevent the shrivelling and wrinkling of produce, preserving its visual appeal and marketability.
3. Extended Shelf Life:
   • Proper humidification can contribute to extending the shelf life of many types of produce, reducing spoilage and waste.
4. Quality Preservation:
   • Humidity control is crucial for preserving the texture, flavour, and overall quality of fruits and vegetables during storage.

Methods of Humidification in Produce Storage:

1. Evaporative Cooling Systems:
   • These systems use the evaporation of water to cool and humidify the air in storage spaces. They are effective in maintaining the required humidity levels, especially in large storage areas.
2. Misting Systems:
   • Misting or fogging systems release fine water droplets into the storage atmosphere, increasing humidity levels. These systems are commonly used in greenhouses and large-scale produce storage facilities.
3. Humidification Chambers or Rooms:
   • Specific storage areas equipped with humidification systems allow for precise control of temperature and humidity, creating an ideal environment for produce storage.
4. Moisture-Permeable Films and Covers:
   • Covering produce with moisture-permeable films or using humidity-impermeable packaging can help control water vapour exchange and maintain the desired humidity around the produce.

Factors to Consider in Produce Humidification:

1. Produce Specificity:
   • Different types of fruits and vegetables have varying optimal humidity requirements. Understanding the specific needs of the produce being stored is essential for effective humidification.
2. Storage Temperature:
   • The temperature at which produce is stored can influence the optimal humidity levels. Cold storage conditions often require higher humidity to prevent dehydration.
3. Air Circulation:
   • Proper air circulation is crucial to distribute humidity evenly throughout the storage space and prevent localized variations.
4. Monitoring and Control:
   • Implementing a system for monitoring and controlling humidity levels is essential for maintaining consistency and avoiding extremes that could impact produce quality.
5. Health Considerations:
   • Maintaining proper hygiene in humidification systems is crucial to prevent the growth of mould and bacteria, which can negatively impact both produce and human health.

Benefits of Proper Humidification in Produce Storage:

1. Preservation of Quality:
   • Maintains the appearance, texture, and flavour of produce, enhancing its market value.
2. Reduced Waste:
   • Extends the shelf life of produce, reducing the likelihood of spoilage and waste.
3. Optimal Weight Retention:
   • Helps retain the weight of produce by slowing down moisture loss.
4. Marketability:
   • Produce that looks and tastes fresh is more appealing to consumers and has higher market demand.

Proper humidification practices in produce storage are essential for maximizing the value of harvested crops, ensuring they reach consumers in optimal condition. The choice of humidification method depends on factors such as the type of produce, storage conditions, and the scale of the storage facility.

Founded in 1982, Tecpro Australia has developed an enviable reputation for providing reliable and cost-effective technical solutions for a vast range of industrial applications. Products suitable for humidification of produce application include:
* Spray Nozzles
* Misting Systems
* Design, Fabrication & Consulting

Our customers benefit from the following:
• Access to a broad range of quality solutions and technical advice
• Local sales support and customer service with a focus on integrity and honesty
• Over 30 years’ experience of providing expertise and solutions
• Quality European manufactured products.