Maersk Container Industry has launched an upgraded version of its controlled-atmosphere refrigerated container system for high-value perishable products.

According to MCI, the new Star Cool CA+ system controls the ripening process and is ideal for sensitive low-respiring perishables such as blueberries and lychees. Data on the conditions inside the reefer during transportation is directly accessible by shipping companies.

“Demand for a large variety of fruit and vegetables is increasing throughout the year,” said Soren Leth Johannsen, chief commercial officer of MCI. “We further developed our existing controlled-atmosphere system with the specific goal of supporting our customers in tapping into these trade opportunities by enabling them to reach more distant markets with low-respiring perishables, which typically also have a high value.”

As compared with high-respiring perishables such as bananas and avocados, low-respiring ones require a different atmospheric composition inside the container. MCI developed the CA+ system in cooperation with experts and shipping lines, using data from approximately 40,000 Star Cool CA units in operations around the world.

Star Cool CA+ can be preinstalled to Star Cool reefers in the factory or added as an in-field upgrade, according to MCI.