Tomatoes
STATUS leads New Zealand in quality control and packhouse technology with state-of-the-art machinery and computer controlled equipment.
Quality Control:
Quality Control is #1 at the Status Packhouse. Meticulous quality control processes that begin in the glasshouses are carried through into the packhouse through the following systems:
- Entry
- Washing
- Grading
- Packing
- Storing
- Ordering
- Distribution
Each part of these processes are documented and overseen by highly experienced managers, qualified and exacting quality controllers and skilled packhouse staff. At each point where the tomato is moved or handled, care is taken to not bruise or damage the tomato.
Freshness:
Freshness is acheived by understanding and controlling every moment from picking to distribution. All fruit emits ethylene. When a tomato senses ethylene, it opens its pores to emit more, and then rapid ripening occurs. Status uses ethylene scrubbers within the temperature controlled food grade cool stores, to remove excess ethylene from the environment, and hence control stability and freshness.
Distribution:
Domestically: Every endeavour is made to ensure the product is packed and onto the shelves within 12-24 hours of being picked. All Freight is via Turners and Growers temperature controlled trucks. This ensures we control the environment right to the door of the retailer, or restaurant.
Export: Status Produce ltd, is the only tomato producer in NZ, who has developed the care and control necessary to sea-freight tomatoes to Australia for sale. Status has pioneered the use of temperature controlled sea freight and ethylene control to achieve first class out turns in Australia. Status has built a reputation for wonderful product in the Australian wholesale market, and during the months of October to March, Status tomatoes are sold weekly in markets in Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane.
For other markets, Status use airfreight, and every endeavour is made to ensure the product is packed and onto the shelves in USA, Canada or Asia within 24 hours of being picked.