In addition to emerging commodities and varieties, Ontario produce growers are experimenting with new technologies in the field like the Agriplanter—a European-made, tractor-pulled row transplanter that helps automate the planting process.
“It’s already being used by commercial vegetable farmers in Italy, Spain, Portugal, France, Belgium, and the Netherlands,” said Michelle Broom, president of the Ontario Produce Marketing Association (OPMA), BB #:162383. “Now, it’s coming to North America for the first time.”
According to Broom, the Agriplanter is expected to reduce labor by 70 percent and increase planted acres per hour by 20 percent. Since winter, Agriplanter trials have been underway at a handful of Ontario farms for cauliflower, pepper, onion, and tomato plants.
The Ontario produce industry has also benefited from ongoing innovations in labeling and packaging. Some suppliers are now using LogoFrucht from Kellermeister Manns in Germany.
This process enables the printing of a logo or label on fruit and vegetables of any type and shape—even those with round surfaces. The print is applied with a flavorless, water-resistant food coloring that does no damage to the item.
There are also new packing materials made from up to 50 percent fresh grass fibers, according to Broom, which are recyclable, biodegradable, and allow for increased savings in energy and raw materials.
Another innovation, from Apeel Sciences BB #:345580, has already made a splash in the United States and is coming to Canada. It revolves around plant-derived coatings to keep produce fresh for two to three times longer and Broom applauds its use to reduce food waste.
Primarily used on avocados, the tasteless coating can also be applied to citrus, apples, red peppers, and blueberries.
