Jul 27, 2018

JMT US and Macro Plastics launch natural controlled atmosphere shipping bin

JMT US and Macro Plastics are launching new controlled atmosphere equipment for the preservation of fresh commodities.

The new product, called JMT CA Bin 730, is meant for the storage and shipment of fresh fruits, vegetables, and cut flowers. It combines the expertise of both companies. Macro developed the nesting bin with solid walls, while JMT US designed the lid adapted to fit the bin.

Once the lid is secured on the bin with an easy-to-use clip system, the user has a controlled atmosphere, or CA, bin that can be used to extend the shelf life and maintain the freshness of a wide range of fruits, vegetables, cut flowers or mushrooms, according to a release from the companies. The CA conditions are obtained through an all-natural process, as it is the breathing of the stored product that modifies the atmosphere, thanks to the patented gas-selective membranes on the lid that control O₂ and CO₂ rates inside the bin.

This CA technology is being marketed as “the first ever nesting bin solution featuring natural controlled atmosphere preservation.” Due to the nesting nature of the reusable bins, growers and shippers can take advantage of a four-to-one empty-return ratio: Only one truck on the way back for every four trucks with stacked bins full of fresh produce.

Steve Tennes, of the Country Mill Farms in Charlotte, Michigan, is the first user of the JMT CA Bin 730, with more than a hundred bins delivered in early July.