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Why use ethylene to suppress potato sprouting?

Although there are several different technologies available for sprout suppression, ethylene gas has been proven to be the all-round best solution for extending the life of potatoes without any chemical residue. In particular, it is the ideal replacement for CIPC as it meets all current regulations while giving you many additional benefits on top.

Ethylene molocule

Benefits of using ethylene sprout suppressant

It has long been known that storing apples with potatoes inhibits sprouting. This is a direct result of the natural ethylene produced by the apples having an effect on the potatoes.

Biofresh Ethylene Management Units operate using 99.95% ethylene supplied in cylinders (which fully satisfy CRD quality and HSE safety requirements). Use of cylinders ensures the delivery of pure ethylene, avoiding potential impurities which may occur with use of ethanol.

In the UK, where there has been increasing pressure to reduce detectable residues in food, ethylene has been used commercially since 2003 as an alternative to more traditional chemical based sprout suppressants, which leave significant levels of residue.

Key benefits

  • Leaves no detectable residues in the treated crop
  • Simple & safe method of application
  • Substantially cheaper than mint oil or DMN solutions
  • Contaminant-free
  • Approved by the UK Chemical Regulations Directorate

FAQs

Safestore (ethylene) is a highly effective sprout suppressant for the long- term storage of potatoes. Contact Biofresh for a list of varieties that are best suited to storage with Safestore.

Potatoes can be stored for up to a full storage season using Safestore but some varieties are better suited to long-term storage than others. If in any doubt, contact Biofresh for more detailed advice.

Depending on the variety, Safestore (ethylene) may have an effect on the fry colours of some processing potato varieties. Always consult with your end-user before treating potatoes with Safestore.

Safestore is fully approved as a plant growth regulator (sprout suppressant) in the UK as well as a number of EU countries.

Safestore leaves no residue in the treated crop. There is no minimum withdrawal period (‘harvest interval’) before the treated potatoes can enter the supply chain.

Ethylene is lower cost and doesn’t leave any odours or residues. Furthermore,
ethylene readily diffuses throughout the store and does not leave any treatment ‘cold-spots’.

This depends on how leaky the store is and how much the store is ventilated but typically one gas cylinder will last for six weeks in a thousand tonne store

Yes, but please note there is s slightly different Safestore treatment protocol for pre-packed and processed potatoes. It will work just as effectively in either box or bulk stores.

Ethylene can be used as a stand-alone anti-sprouting treatment or alternatively it can be used in combination with other treatments. When using in combination with other treatments please speak with Biofresh for advice on application.

Safestore potatoes arranged in a question mark - FAQs