FRIBASA and EROSKI aimed to develop a range of IV range (fresh-cut) vegetable products, vacuum-packed, with no additives or preservatives, a minimum shelf life of seven days, and ready to cook.
The main technical challenge was to define the right processing conditions for different vegetable mixes, as not all vegetables respond in the same way to cutting, washing, drying or packaging. The goal was to maintain product quality and safety without resorting to chemical additives.
AZTI supported both companies throughout the full development of this new product line.
Laboratory- and industrial-scale trials were carried out, different vegetable combinations and cutting formats were tested, and key processing operations (such as washing, drying and vacuum packaging) were fine-tuned.
In addition, AZTI advised on machinery selection and trained FRIBASA staff responsible for operating the processing line.
A new IV range vegetable processing line installed at FRIBASA’s facilities.
Launch of 10 new product references on the market under the EROSKI brand.
Replacement of additive-based solutions with more natural alternatives.
Sectors: Food sector, Manufacturers of machinery and industrial equipment
Research lines: Consumer behaviour and trends, New foods and technologies
Research sublines: Processing and conserving technologies, Sensory analysis and consumer preferences