New Catalyst System Has Improved Fruit Freshness on Ships
A newly certified air-purification system helps reduce food waste and preserve produce for crews at sea.
Updated on Oct. 7, 2026 in Organic Food
Live Poll
Do you believe new workplace technologies effectively improve quality of life for employees?
ClassNK has certified a new catalyst system designed to preserve the freshness of fruits and vegetables on refrigerated ships. The technology aims to improve food availability and reduce waste for maritime crews.
Why it matters
By removing ethylene gas, which accelerates ripening, this system helps ensure that fresh produce remains viable longer during extended voyages. This development serves to decrease food spoilage and improve nutrition options for personnel onboard.
ClassNK has provided official certification for the Freshness Keeping Catalyst system. This validation confirms the system's ability to maintain produce quality by reducing ethylene concentrations within a vessel's refrigerated storage environment.
The players
ClassNK
A classification society that sets safety and quality standards for the maritime industry.
Nikki-Universal
A developer of chemical catalysts and industrial air treatment technologies.
Sojitz Machinery
A distributor of industrial machinery and technical equipment for international markets.
The details
The system works by installing a proprietary catalyst within the ship's air circulation or ventilation units. This catalyst effectively strips ethylene gas—a natural plant hormone that triggers rapid ripening—from the refrigerated air. By lowering these gas levels, the system slows the decay process of fruits and vegetables stored in cargo holds.
Timeline
October 7, 2026: The certification of the catalyst system was announced.
Health Landscape
This certification fits into the broader maritime trend of enhancing crew welfare through improved food logistics and storage quality. It updates the standards for the ClassNK ELW (FP) notation, providing operators with a validated path to manage perishable supplies more efficiently.
While this system operates on a industrial scale, its implementation directly supports better access to fresh nutrients for those working at sea. If you are a maritime employee, consider discussing onboard food storage standards with your employer to advocate for improved nutrition quality.
The takeaway
Preserving the nutrient density of produce requires managing environmental factors like ethylene gas. Maintaining awareness of food handling and storage standards is a key step in supporting long-term health and dietary quality.
Further reading
Learn more about the intersection of supply chain and produce longevity in our Organic Food section.
Live Poll
Do you believe new workplace technologies effectively improve quality of life for employees?
