Abstract: The present disclosure relates to systems and methods for creating and maintaining modified and controlled atmospheres (MA/CA) in a rigid sealable container having at least one refrigeration unit with an integrated oxygen reduction structure. The refrigeration unit provides the necessary ambient atmosphere movement for the oxygen reduction structure, such as a hydrogen fuel cell. The systems and methods are useful in the, storage, transport, distribution, processing and packaging of fresh perishables with a focus on altering the natural gaseous environment around the perishables such that fresh shelf-life is extended. The systems may operate in a power generation/power production mode, such that the fuel cells maintain the MA/CA environment while providing both primary and back-up power.
Abstract: The present disclosure relates to systems and methods for creating and maintaining modified and controlled atmospheres (MA/CA) in a rigid sealable container having at least one refrigeration unit with an integrated oxygen reduction structure. The refrigeration unit provides the necessary ambient atmosphere movement for the oxygen reduction structure, such as a hydrogen fuel cell. The systems and methods are useful in the, storage, transport, distribution, processing and packaging of fresh perishables with a focus on altering the natural gaseous environment around the perishables such that fresh shelf-life is extended. The systems may operate in a power generation/power production mode, such that the fuel cells maintain the MA/CA environment while providing both primary and back-up power.
Abstract: The present disclosure relates to mechanically refrigerated retail and vending display systems and methods or use for extending the shelf-life of perishable products in the retail or vending setting. This is accomplished by maintaining an appropriate modified and controlled atmosphere (MA/CA) environment for the perishable product in a retail or vending display unit. The systems and methods of the invention maintain the MA/CA environment for a time period of 10 days or longer, wherein the marketable shelf-life of a perishable product is at least doubled. The systems may also operate in a power generation/power production mode, such that the fuel cells maintain the MA/CA environment while providing both primary and/or back-up power.
Abstract: The present disclosure relates to systems and methods for creating and maintaining modified and controlled atmospheres (MA/CA) in a rigid sealable container having at least one refrigeration unit with an integrated oxygen reduction means. The refrigeration unit provides the necessary ambient atmosphere movement for the oxygen reduction means, such as a hydrogen fuel cell. The systems and methods are useful in the, storage, transport, distribution, processing and packaging of fresh perishables with a focus on altering the natural gaseous environment around the perishables such that fresh shelf-life is extended. The systems may operate in a power generation/power production mode, such that the fuel cells maintain the MA/CA environment while providing both primary and back-up power.