Transport of Fruits: At What Temperature Are Fruits Transported?

What factors and technologies play a key role in maintaining the quality of fruit during transport to international markets?

Transporting fruits requires special care, as they are perishable goods whose quality depends on maintaining appropriate conditions throughout the entire logistics process. A key factor in fruit transport is temperature control, which prevents over-ripening, moisture loss, mold growth, and other forms of degradation. Different types of fruits require different temperature ranges due to their specific biological characteristics, water content, and sensitivity to environmental changes.

Fruits are most commonly transported at temperatures ranging from 0°C to 15°C, depending on the species. For instance, apples and pears, which are firm fruits, are best stored and transported at temperatures between 0°C and 4°C. This helps maintain freshness for longer periods and slows down the ripening process. Similarly, citrus fruits such as oranges, lemons, and grapefruits require temperatures between 4°C and 8°C to avoid thermal shock, which can damage their skin and pulp. Bananas, highly sensitive to low temperatures, must be transported at 13°C to 15°C to prevent freezing and to retain optimal color and flavor. Their transport often involves special ripening chambers that allow for controlled release of ethylene, a natural gas responsible for fruit ripening.

Berries, such as strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries, are particularly prone to mechanical damage and microbial activity. They require temperatures close to 0°C and relative humidity levels of 90–95% to prevent dehydration. Meanwhile, tropical fruits like mangoes, papayas, and pineapples do not tolerate temperatures below 10°C, as this can cause chilling injuries, manifested as discoloration, loss of firmness, and diminished flavor.

Fruit transportation predominantly occurs in specialized refrigerated trucks, refrigerated containers, and airplanes equipped for transporting temperature-sensitive goods. In 2022, over 80% of global fruit shipments were made by sea, with refrigerated containers (reefers) being the cornerstone of logistics. For example, Poland, one of Europe’s largest apple producers, exports these fruits mainly to Germany, the United Kingdom, and Scandinavian countries. In 2021, Poland exported approximately 1.2 million tons of apples, accounting for 70% of its total domestic production. These fruits are primarily transported by road at optimal temperatures of 0°C to 3°C.

Advanced technologies play an increasingly significant role in fruit transport. Modern refrigerated containers are equipped with sensors that monitor temperature, humidity, and levels of carbon dioxide and oxygen. One example is Controlled Atmosphere (CA) technology, which allows precise regulation of the atmosphere inside the container, significantly extending fruit storage times. With this technology, apples or kiwis can be stored for several months without losing quality. Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP), often used for berries, modifies the gas composition within the packaging to reduce the respiration rate of the fruits and prolong their shelf life.

Air transport, though more expensive, is preferred for very delicate fruits like strawberries or fresh mangoes, especially over long distances, such as from Africa or South America to Europe. This method ensures fruits can reach consumers within hours of harvest. Statistics from 2022 indicate that over 10% of global fruit exports were transported by air, with major importers including the United States, Germany, Japan, and China.

Relative humidity is another crucial factor in fruit transport. Its level must be appropriately adjusted to the type of fruit being shipped. For example, citrus fruits and bananas require humidity levels of 85–90%, while berries need as much as 90–95%. Incorrect humidity can lead to fruit dehydration or promote mold growth, significantly reducing their market value. Notably, Poland, as one of Europe’s leading blueberry producers, exports these fruits primarily to Germany, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and Scandinavia. Blueberries are transported in refrigerated conditions at 0°C to 2°C while maintaining high humidity.

The global refrigerated transport market, including fruit, is projected to reach over $25 billion by 2025. The sector's growth is driven by increasing demand for fresh products in developed countries and technological advances that enable more efficient and eco-friendly transportation. In Poland, the growing export of fruits, especially apples, blueberries, and strawberries, is fostering the development of refrigerated infrastructure and strengthening the country’s role as a key supplier to European markets.

It is worth noting that temperature requirements can vary depending on the length of the transport route and the method of transportation. For short distances, such as local deliveries to supermarkets, fruits may be transported under less stringent conditions if transit times are brief. However, for intercontinental exports, such as shipments from Latin America to Europe, maintaining a stable temperature throughout the journey is essential for preserving fruit quality. A prime example is the transport of bananas from Ecuador, which accounts for over 25% of the world’s banana exports. Bananas are shipped in refrigerated containers at 13°C to 14°C, with their ripening process controlled using ethylene at the destination.

Fruit transport is a complex process that requires consideration of the specific needs of each type of fruit. Appropriate temperature, humidity, atmospheric control, and advanced logistics technologies play a critical role in preserving fruit quality at every stage of its journey from producer to consumer. The dynamic growth of this sector and the increasing demand for fresh fruits provide Poland with an opportunity to strengthen its position as a leading exporter in demanding international markets.