badge

Sorting European Apples – Precision First!

Sorting apples is a crucial step in ensuring that the fruit reaching consumers meets their expectations. Thanks to modern technologies, this process is carried out quickly, precisely, and – most importantly – in a way that prevents damage to the delicate fruit. European producers have fine-tuned this process to perfection, combining a commitment to high standards with maximum efficiency!

In today’s article, we’ll take a look at three fascinating technological solutions that help maintain the exceptional quality and freshness of European apples.

Water unloading – a smooth operation


Water unloading is a technology that allows for the safe and gentle removal of apples from pallet boxes. The boxes are submerged in a pool of water, and the fruit floats to the surface thanks to buoyancy. This process minimizes the risk of bruising and also provides a preliminary cleaning! It’s one of the most delicate solutions in the sorting industry, ensuring that the natural appearance and structure of European apples are preserved1.

Water Channel System – Precise Transport at Every Stage


After being gently unloaded, the apples enter a sophisticated water channel system, a key element connecting the different stages of the sorting process. This advanced network enables the smooth movement of fruit between the various sections of the production line. The water acts as a natural shock absorber, protecting the apples from bruising and preserving their visual appeal and structure.

This system not only transports the fruit but also serves as a temporary storage buffer. The water allows for temporary storage of the apples before they undergo further processing, such as sorting or packing. This optimized use of space and precise control over the flow of fruit ensures that the entire process runs smoothly and efficiently. Thanks to the water channel system, consistency and continuity are maintained at every stage – from the moment of unloading to the final packing2.

Hydro-vacuum Filler – Gentle Packing


After sorting, the apples are transferred to the hydro-vacuum filler, which represents the final, yet crucial stage of the process. Its main function is to gently and precisely place the fruit into pallet boxes, preparing them for further transport and distribution.

This process occurs in an aquatic environment – the apples are guided by a stream of water that evenly distributes them within the containers. Water plays a key role here, acting as a protective cushion that absorbs shocks and prevents bruising or other damage. Moreover, a vacuum mechanism generates a gentle vortex that controls the flow of apples, ensuring they are accurately placed without the risk of collisions.

The hydro-vacuum filler allows for simultaneous filling of multiple pallet boxes, which speeds up the packing process and increases the efficiency of the entire production line. Thanks to this technology, the apples reach the final recipient in pristine condition, retaining all their visual and quality attributes, carefully protected throughout each preceding stage3.

The Future of Apple Sorting is Here

Modern technologies, such as water unloading, water channel systems, and hydro-vacuum fillers, allow for the precise sorting of apples, preserving their freshness and quality. Fully automated sorting lines enable fruit preparation at a truly high level – from unloading to storage. Apples prepared this way are ready for further packing and meet the expectations of even the most demanding consumers!

Want to learn more secrets behind the quality of European apples? Or maybe you’re feeling inspired to try them out in some delicious recipes? Check out the other posts on our blog – there’s a wealth of useful and interesting information waiting for you!


1 https://www.academia.edu/ 

2 https://www.ijert.org/research/a-survey-of-machine-vision-techniques-for-fruit-sorting-and-grading-IJERTV3IS071018.pdf

3 https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-981-16-5316-2_6

OTHERPOSTS

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE CAMPAIGN

Discover the “Taste Europe!” journey, a 3-year promotional and informational campaign that brings Europe’s fine flavors directly to you. Focused on beef and pork (fresh, chilled, frozen) as well as apples and their products in Japan, Vietnam and Singapore, we invite you to experience the unparalleled taste and quality that stem from Europe’s optimal conditions and steadfast commitment to animal welfare.

“Taste Europe!” highlights the EU’s cutting-edge food production practices, all adhering to the highest safety standards, such as HACCP, GMP, GHP, GAP, and ISO, ensuring your utmost confidence in our products. This campaign celebrates Europe’s culinary heritage, emphasizing our rigorous standards. It’s about presenting Europe’s premium offerings on the global stage and onto your plate, with a more nuanced and refined approach.