Ethylene (C2H4) is a plant hormone that is released naturally by fruit, vegetables and flowers as they ripen, accelerating the process. This process continues after plants have been harvested.

It is also produced when burning plastics. It is invisible to the human eye.

Ethylene speeds up the ripening process, which also speeds up decomposing and decay. This is a natural process for fresh produce, but it causes problems when transporting and storing them.

Some products produce more ethylene than others. As an example, some products that produce higher levels of ethylene are: apples, tomatoes, avocados and pears. Examples of products that produce low levels of ethylene are: apricots, cherries, grapes, potatoes and radishes.

The products that are most sensitive to the effects of ethylene are: apples, bananas, broccoli, carrots, cauliflowers, cucumbers and kiwis.

Most harvested products are sensitive to ethylene to some degree.

Click here to see the full list of products that are sensitive to ethylene.

Due to variable ethylene production and the different levels of sensitivity to the gas, fresh produce has to be carefully transported, keeping the effects of ethylene in mind. For example, a fruit that produces high levels of ethylene, such as tomatoes, should not be transported in the same load as a product such as broccoli, a vegetable that is very sensitive to this gas.

High levels of airborne pathogens, such as bacteria and mould spores, reduce the time products can be transported before they go off. These pathogens also have an effect on the walls of the containers, which can be covered in mould.

Flowers are very sensitive, both to ethylene and to airborne pathogens. The most expensive flowers, such as orchids, can be easily damaged by airborne pathogens or high concentrations of ethylene within storage areas.

KEEPCOOL is ideal for transporting fresh produce and flowers. It is designed to be placed in lorries and refrigerated containers. It aims to remove ethylene and airborne pathogens during transport, and extend the life and quality of perishable products.

KEEPCOOL is a filter that removes ethylene and airborne pathogens.

KEEPCOOL made of particles that absorb ethylene on a base of nonwoven polyester.

KEEPCOOL removes ethylene gas and airborne pathogens, helping to prevent premature ripening and decay, while reducing odours and preventing product discolouration. Various tests have shown that it increases storage life, keeping perishable goods and flowers in a healthier condition. Results vary depending on the different types of products being transported.

KEEPCOOL filters should be placed by an air vent, using the base designed for this purpose.

KEEPCOOL does not inhibit the air flow to refrigerated containers to any significant extent, and it therefore does not have an adverse effect on the refrigeration process. KEEPCOOL filters are not damaged in cold temperatures.

KEEPCOOL filters are individually vacuum-packed.

Once you have opened the individual packaging for the filter, you should use it immediately. We recommend changing the KEEPCOOL filter after 30 days of use, or after transportation by sea (for maritime transport). Unopened filters have a useful life of 1 year.

Yes. The KEEPCOOL filter is certified for use when storing and transporting organic products.