Listen to the audio version of this article. Duration: 6 minutes.

Organic-friendly REFRIGERATION

The rise of organic food consumption reflects a growing focus on health and sustainability. However, this shift brings new challenges, particularly regarding the preservation of organic produce. With consumer demand for clean labels and chemical free products, modern refrigeration technologies like multi climate refrigerators are key to extending the shelf life of organic foods while supporting a healthier lifestyle.

In recent years, the global pandemic has heightened people’s awareness of the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Forbes notes that over 80% of consumers in industrialised markets are now more committed to eating and living healthier, with health concerns and environmental considerations being key drivers of this shift. This has led to a significant rise in the consumption of organic, non-GMO, and chemical-free food, as people seek to avoid the risks associated with industrial farming practices.

According to Spherical Insights, the global organic food and beverage market reached a value of USD 227.45 billion in 2023, and it is expected to nearly double to USD 437.4 billion by 2026. This trend is evident in all regions. In Europe, for instance, the organic food and beverages market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 14.15%, while Latin America’s organic dairy sector is projected to increase by 71% by 2027. The increasing consumer demand for healthier, more sustainable food options is a driving force behind this growth.

The shift to organic and its challenges

One of the key reasons behind the shift towards organic produce is the rise in food allergies and intolerances. FARE (Food Allergy Research and Education) reports that 1 in 10 adults in the U.S. suffer from some form of food allergy, with more than half of them experiencing severe allergic reactions. Among children, 1 in 13 are affected, with food allergies rising dramatically — by 50% between 1997 and 2011, and again by 50% from 2007 to 2021. These statistics underscore the growing importance of consuming food that is free from chemicals and allergens, prompting many to turn to organic products as a safer alternative.

While organic produce offers numerous health benefits, including the absence of synthetic pesticides and preservatives, it also poses storage challenges. Organic fruits and vegetables tend to have a shorter shelf life than their conventionally farmed counterparts because they lack the preservatives that help extend freshness. This makes them more vulnerable to spoilage from factors like microorganisms, moisture, and temperature fluctuations.

Storing organic food

Proper storage is essential to preserving the freshness of organic food. Modern refrigeration solutions, such as multiclimate refrigerators, are designed to meet this need by offering different temperature and humidity zones that cater to various types of produce. Leafy vegetables, for example, require high humidity levels (between 90% and 95%) to stay crisp, while fruits like apples and grapes prefer lower humidity to prevent shrivelling or mould growth.

Additionally, many fruits, such as bananas, apples, and melons, produce ethylene gas, a natural ripening hormone that can accelerate spoilage in nearby produce. Separating ethylene-producing fruits from more sensitive ones, such as pears or mangoes, can help prolong their freshness. Multi climate refrigerators, which allow for different temperature and humidity settings within the same appliance, address these challenges by ensuring that each type of produce is stored under optimal conditions.

The “Clean Label” movement

A parallel trend that has emerged alongside the rise in organic food is the growing consumer preference for “clean labels.” This trend reflects a desire for products with minimal, easily recognisable ingredients, free from unnecessary chemical additives or preservatives. Consumers are increasingly scrutinising product labels, looking for foods that align with their health and sustainability goals. The clean label movement further reinforces the need for effective storage solutions, as chemical-free foods are more prone to spoilage.

Global market trends

The organic food market continues to expand, with every region of the world seeing increased demand. Statista estimates that the market will grow annually by 13% globally from 2022 to 2030. In Europe, the EU has set ambitious targets, aiming for at least 25% of agricultural land in the Union to be organically farmed by 2030, a substantial increase from just over 10% only two years ago. This reflects a growing political and societal commitment to healthier, more sustainable food production practices.

At the same time, the global population is expected to exceed 8.5 billion by 2030, increasing the demand for sustainable food sources and efficient storage solutions. The packaging industry is playing its part by investing in eco-friendly materials designed to protect food while minimising environmental impact.

As the global organic food market continues to grow, the need for efficient food preservation technologies will remain central to ensuring both the health of consumers and the sustainability of our food systems.

Copyright © Homa 2025

All rights reserved