How Israeli Innovation Protects Dragon Fruit Exports

Dragon fruit is one of the most visually striking and in-demand tropical fruits in international markets, yet it is also among the most challenging to export. Its high sensitivity to dehydration, rapid weight loss, and vulnerability to microbial deterioration pose major challenges during long maritime journeys from Ecuador to key destinations such as the United States and Europe, which can exceed three weeks. Even under optimal cold-chain conditions, these factors lead to loss of color, skin shriveling, and a reduction in commercial value upon arrival.

In response to this challenge, Israeli company StePacPPC, a specialist in fresh produce packaging solutions, has developed an intelligent film specifically designed for dragon fruit. This technology, known as Xtend, is based on modified atmosphere packaging, allowing oxygen and carbon dioxide levels to be balanced inside the package while also controlling humidity. As a result, the fruit’s respiration rate is slowed, dehydration is reduced, and the growth of microorganisms during transport is limited, helping preserve quality, firmness, and overall appearance.

One of the key advantages of this solution is its ability to maintain the bright color of the peel and the firmness of the bracts—visual indicators of freshness that are critical for market acceptance. Beyond the Ecuadorian context, this innovation opens new commercial opportunities for tropical fruit producers worldwide by extending shelf life, enabling access to distant markets, and reducing food waste, ultimately strengthening the competitiveness of the global fresh produce industry.

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