A Barcelona-based fruit processor has formed a joint venture with Del Monte Pacific Ltd, to run a frozen fruit facility in the Philippines, GMA News Online reported.

Photo: Seuss, via Flickr Creative Commons

The site said the modern facility would use Nice Fruit's patented technology Nice Frozen Dry, which allowed fresh produce to be frozen for up to three years without compromising its nutrient characteristics or original properties.

The company claimed that once thawed, the taste and structure of fruit and vegetables was the same as when they were freshly picked.

Del Monte Pacific chief operating officer Luis F. Alejandro told the website the technology would be used to export fresh produce globally.

"The joint venture will give us access to the growing fresh frozen market where we currently do no compete," Alejandro was quoted as saying.

"We will start with pineapples using the same variety we export fresh today under the S&W brand to Asia Pacific and the Middle East.

"The technology is patented and there is no loss if not minimal (sic), in organoleptic properties when the products are thawed."

According to the report, Del Monte will own 35% of the venture; Nice Fruit will have 51% equity and UK-based investment company Ferville will have 14%.

www.freshfruitportal.com