Divine Flavor Optimizes Table Grape Quality Through Partnership With Hazel Technologies; Alan Aguirre, Mario Cervantes, and Alvaro Muñoz Discuss
CHICAGO, IL - Two well-recognized industry names are coming together to form a new partnership. Divine Flavor has announced its alliance with Hazel Technologies as the two aim to extend shelf-life in the table grape category.
“As producers of fresh fruits and vegetables, it will always be our priority to offer our clients and their customers exceptional quality, sustainable products which contribute to their long-term health,” said Alan Aguirre, President and Chief Executive Officer of Divine Flavor. “Innovation is an integral component of today’s industry, and it’s important to recognize sustainable solutions which have beneficial impacts to both the shelf-life and the quality of our produce. We look forward to seeing how Hazel Technologies will continue to benefit our grape programs.”
Divine Flavor is the United States-based marketing and distribution arm of Grupo Alta. The supplier boasts of over 5,000 acres of table grape vineyards, with warehouses in California, Texas, and Pennsylvania.
In its mission to provide quality produce that is farmed in a safe, sustainable, and socially responsible manner, Divine turned to Hazel Technologies. According to a press release, the two found that Hazel’s flagship technology, Hazel 100™, was a great fit for Divine Flavor’s table grapes.
“We’ve been experimenting with these sachets for a few seasons, and the results are very positive,” said Alvaro Muñoz, Head of Quality Control at Grupo Alta. “We are seeing well-maintained and very green rachis which last through the post-harvest process—avoiding dehydration, and undoubtedly preserving the appearance of the grape. Hazel 100 is much added value which gives results.”
This season, Divine Flavor implemented more than half a million Hazel 100 sachets with various grape presentations and different varieties. These sachets have the ability to preserve the stems of the grape bunches, which ultimately preserves the shelf-life of the fruit.
“We’re extremely excited to help Divine Flavor keep their fruits fresher for longer here in the States,” said Mario Cervantes, Director of Business Development at Hazel Technologies. “Our teams are aligned in our missions to make food accessible while advocating for the environment. We anticipate our collaboration will have a major impact on global food waste reduction.”