Trials show that Florasys products extends the shelf life of roses by 50-100%, says Chanel Daniel-Swartland, Technical Affairs Manager at Tessara, a company that is one of the industry leaders in Sulphur dioxide generating products used for the preservation of fruits and vegetables. The Florasys products, which are recyclable and free of harmful chemicals, are now commercially available in East Africa and will soon be available in South America as well.
Chanel Daniel-Swartland and James Cocker at the IFTF in Vijfhuizen in November 2023.
Florasys Box Strip and Wrap
Florasys was first introduced to the market in 2020 as the Florasys Export Box Strip, used to preserve roses during export. In Jan 2023, Tessara (Pty) Ltd. released a second product under the Florasys brand called the Florasys Wrap. So, how does it work? Florasys products were scientifically formulated by a team of researchers for the preservation of cut roses. Its unique formulation releases sulfur dioxide gas under optimal conditions during transport and storage. Florasys Export Box Strip is placed in the corners of the box once the flowers are packed, and Florasys Wrap is an insert that is placed inside the SFK before bunching. Both products will release SO2 gas under conditions of high humidity. The SO2 acts on the surface of the roses to sterilize and prevent unwanted contamination and infection. This will ensure the best possible results. On top of that, the products are easy to use and safe to handle. And Florasys products do not contain any synthetic fungicides but can offer similar benefits.“
Extending the shelf life of roses by 50 – 100%
Over 50 trials have been done in East Africa (Kenya) alone, and additional trials in South Africa and Ecuador are being conducted, explains Daniel-Swartland. “The trials show that Florasys products are between 50 – 100% effective on different rose varieties to extend the shelf-life of the roses. Detailed stats and an approved variety list are available on request from Tessara representatives.”
Commercially available in East Africa and soon in South America
To date, the products are under development with a selected group of growers in Kenya. “As product registration is in the process of being finalized, products are now commercially available in East Africa and will be available soon in South America.”
Interest is rising
How did the demand develop since the introduction? Daniel-Swartland: “Initially, demand was slow. However, with the Floral industry moving towards eco-friendly, more sustainable solutions, interest in Florasys has been rising. Tessara has chosen to partner with growers who have this vision to be industry leaders as we roll out the use of Florasys to growers who see the potential of such a product. It’s eco-friendly, easy to handle, and is best practice for the flowers as the crop will get into the cold chain a lot quicker with less handling time.”
A sea freight solution for roses?
“Florasys products were initially created to be used under conditions for air freight. A lot has happened during the last few years, and the need for sea freight is a hot topic. Interestingly, Tessara’s product offerings on other (fruit) commodities are all compatible for sea freight. So while there isn’t a current sea freight solution for roses, the R&D scientists are working on one for the future.”
Exciting times ahead
When looking at the years to come, Daniel-Swartland foresees a bright future for Florasys products. “Exciting times are ahead for Tessara and the Florasys range of products. These products enter the market at a time when rules and regulations are changing globally, and environmental considerations like recycling and reducing carbon footprint must be looked at. Florasys products fit into this narrative as they are recyclable and free of harmful chemicals.” And they are eager to grow. “Tessara is committed to engaging with our clients to address needs that the industry has. With that in mind, the Florasys range of products will continually grow to encompass such requests from the industry. “
For more information:
Tessara
Chanel Daniel-Swartland
Email: ChanelD@tessara.co.za
James Cocker
Email: JamesC@tessara.co.za
www.tessara.co.za