One of Blasco Fruit’s main distinguishing features is the care taken in the quality of all our products. To learn more about the processes we implement to ensure a high-quality product for all our customers, we spoke with the head of the quality department:
What quality process does persimmon follow throughout its life at Blasco Fruit?
The quality process is global; it begins in the field where our technician verifies for pests or any pre-harvest issues, and also weekly checks the proper growth of the fruit. During harvesting, performed by laborers, each foreman controls the process, providing guidelines on the shape and quality of the product to be harvested. Once in the warehouse, a pre-sorting is carried out during unloading, and both the machine and the experience of the packers determine the quality. The calibrating machine features state-of-the-art defect detection technology on the skin using photographs, to separate fruit quality upon reaching the packing stage. Once packed, quality control is performed manually before completing each pallet. And during loading, quality controls are carried out: penetrometry, brix, temperature, with specific parameters depending on the destination.
What processes, besides mechanical ones, are used to control quality at Blasco?
Both during each load and through sampling, penetrometry control is performed to check fruit firmness, brix degree control to verify the sugar content of the persimmon, and temperature control for both the fruit and during transport.
What is Blasco Fruit’s quality standard?
We have 3 established categories at Blasco Fruit: extra quality, where the fruit has a very uniform color and no abrasions caused by wind in the field or during handling. The first quality is very good in appearance but has some small abrasion lines. Finally, fruits classified as second quality show more abrasions and marks on the skin.
Is the same quality control applied in all markets and for all customers?
No, although we have 3 generic categories for classifying fruit, we can perform different controls depending on the customer, if they have special requirements.
What certifications does Blasco Fruit hold?
We have GLOBALG.A.P. certification. It is the internationally recognized standard for agricultural production.
SPRING is a farm-level add-on that helps producers, retailers, and traders demonstrate their commitment to sustainable water management, and can be applied in conjunction with the GLOBALG.A.P. standard.
IFS Food is a food safety standard recognized by the Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI) for auditing companies that manufacture food or companies that package bulk food products. It focuses on the food safety and quality of processed products.
These certifications provide Blasco Fruit with added value to offer its customers the best product and service.
