Technical operation of FYSIUM® 1‑MCP technology

FYSIUM® is an innovative 1‑MCP solution for fruit preservation that effectively slows down the ripening process of fresh fruit. The technology is used worldwide by packers, distributors and retailers to extend fruit shelf life and minimise quality loss.

In situ generation of 1‑MCP

At the core of FYSIUM® lies an in situ generation system. Instead of using pre‑produced gas, 1‑MCP is generated on site, exactly when and where it is needed. This enables a controlled and safe application in which the correct 1‑MCP dosage is always delivered, tailored to the fruit type and the logistics process.

This approach ensures maximum effectiveness with minimal waste and makes FYSIUM® suitable for large‑scale industrial applications in the fresh produce supply chain.

Ethylene inhibition and ripening control

Ethylene is a natural plant hormone and plays a crucial role in the fruit ripening process. When ethylene binds to a free ethylene receptor in the cell membrane, a biochemical chain reaction is triggered that leads to accelerated ripening and ageing.

FYSIUM® works by means of 1‑MCP (1‑methylcyclopropene), a compound that binds to these ethylene receptors. Unlike ethylene, 1‑MCP does not activate a signalling cascade, temporarily blocking the ripening process.

Extended shelf life and improved product quality

By blocking the action of ethylene, fruit ripening is significantly slowed down. This results in:

  • a longer sales window
  • preservation of quality, flavour and texture
  • reduced food waste throughout the supply chain
  • greater flexibility in storage and distribution

Thanks to this technology, producers and retailers worldwide can deliver fruit of consistently high quality, at the right moment and at the right price.

ACE development & engineering - Fysium voor Johnson & Johnson

Fysium®: gas generator voor conservering van appels

fijn dosering van vloeistoffen die reageren tot een conserveringsmiddel gas

From laboratory setup to a scalable industrial solution

How do you ensure that 500 tonnes of apples remain shelf‑stable for longer, without compromising on quality?

Janssen PMP asked ACE development & engineering to translate a complex laboratory setup into a portable, industrial solution. The result of this collaboration is FYSIUM®: a robust and scalable post‑harvest technology, developed for use in storage and logistics environments within the fruit industry.

FYSIUM® is designed as a total concept, consisting of disposable cartridges containing carefully formulated liquids and a generator that converts these liquids into a gas. This enables 1‑MCP technology to be applied in a controlled and reliable manner under real‑world operating conditions.

By translating laboratory science into a mobile and user‑friendly system, FYSIUM® makes advanced fruit ripening control applicable on an industrial scale.

Benefits for fruit quality and consumers

The application of FYSIUM® has a direct and measurable impact on the quality of stored fruit. For growers, packers and retailers, this results in greater predictability and reduced product loss. For consumers, it delivers a clearly improved eating experience.

Key benefits of FYSIUM®

  • Firmer fruit: Preservation of structure during storage and transport.
  • Preferred texture: Natural bite and mouthfeel are maintained.
  • Reduced skin greasiness: Improved appearance and better handling characteristics.
  • Improved acid–sugar balance: Consistent and pleasant flavour experience.
  • Increased juiciness: Retention of moisture for a fresher product.

Thanks to the combination of extended shelf life and preservation of sensory quality, FYSIUM® ensures that fruit reaches the market in optimal condition, even after prolonged storage or transport.

 

Knowledge and experience

"ACE has been a true partner for Janssen PMP in creating an innovative and complex new technology, for the development of our business. Achieving this required close collaboration and full integration of end-user requirements. We see ACE's input as a critical element in our success and are now planning future product developments. It was a pleasure to work with ACE throughout the process, they bring true professionalism, innovative concepts and solutions, attention to detail and broad knowledge and experience."

Martyn Barker
Director R&D - Janssen PMP