EROSKI’s Successful Pilot: Enhancing Food Supply Chain Efficiency with Smart Containers

In a groundbreaking initiative to tackle food loss and waste, EROSKI, a partner in the SISTERS project, recently concluded a pilot test of smart containers at its fresh products platform in Júndiz (Spain). Focused on the BULKBOX container, this three-week trial aimed to validate the effectiveness of the innovative technology in preserving the quality and safety of fresh produce during transportation. Lamuyo peppers, known for their perishable nature, were chosen as the test subject for this ambitious endeavor.

The BULKBOX smart container: revolutionizing food logistics

The BULKBOX smart container, developed as part of the SISTERS project, integrates cutting-edge sensor technologies to monitor and maintain optimal conditions for transported goods. EROSKI’s involvement in the pilot showcased the supermarket chain’s commitment to sustainable practices and reducing food loss in the supply chain.

A three-week test with lamuyo peppers

The pilot, conducted at EROSKI’s fresh products platform in Júndiz, spanned three weeks and involved the conservation of Lamuyo peppers in a BULKBOX and in cardboard boxes for comparison. Throughout the trial, the BULKBOX containers were equipped with sensors to track crucial parameters such as temperature, humidity, and other parameters.

Key components of the validation process

The pilot included precise measurements of weight loss in the Lamuyo peppers. These measurements served as a quantitative indicator of the effectiveness of the smart containers in preserving the produce.

To assess the impact on quality, a sensory evaluation was conducted. Trained evaluators analyzed the visual, tactile, and olfactory aspects of the peppers, providing valuable insights into the overall condition of conservation.

A crucial aspect of the pilot was the estimation of food loss and waste. By comparing the initial quantity of Lamuyo peppers with the quantity at the end of the experimentation, EROSKI aimed to quantify the positive impact of the smart containers on reducing losses in the supply chain.

Results and Implications

Preliminary findings indicate a reduction in weight loss during conservation. The BULKBOX containers, equipped with real-time monitoring capabilities, effectively maintained optimal conditions, minimizing the impact on the weight and overall quantity of the Lamuyo peppers.

Sensory evaluations revealed that the peppers transported in the smart containers exhibited superior quality compared to traditional conservation methods. The maintenance of optimal conditions contributed to a notable improvement in the visual and sensory attributes of the produce.

The estimation of food loss and waste demonstrated promising results. The smart containers played a pivotal role in curbing losses, reinforcing their potential to revolutionize the industry’s approach to food logistics.

Future Implications and Collaborative Success

EROSKI’s successful pilot with the BULKBOX smart containers marks a significant milestone in the SISTERS project. The collaboration between EROSKI, FEM, RESBUSLABS, and other project partners highlights the power of cross-industry partnerships in driving innovation and sustainability.

As the project progresses, the insights gained from this pilot will contribute to refining the technology and its integration into wider logistics practices. The pilot at EROSKI’s fresh products platform serves as a testament to the potential of smart containers in reshaping the future of food transportation, fostering efficiency, sustainability, and a significant reduction in food loss and waste across the European Food Value Chain.