Catalytic Generators introduces on-site ethylene ripening technology to Italian fresh produce market
Italy also remains a leading European producer of persimmons, where ethylene application is already widely used in post-harvest operations.
ITALY – Catalytic Generators has introduced its on-site ethylene generation technology to the Italian fresh produce market, targeting a sector driven by strong banana imports, growing avocado demand, and a well-established persimmon industry.
The company used its first participation at the Macfrut trade show to engage with Italian operators and lay the foundations for growth in a market still at an early stage of advanced ripening adoption.
To begin with, Italy imports over 600,000 tonnes of bananas annually, making it one of Europe’s largest banana markets, and the importance of efficient ripening operations is evident.
On the other hand, Avocado demand across Europe has grown significantly, with avocados projected to become the second-most traded tropical fruit globally by 2030.
In fact, European avocado imports reached €3.5 billion (US$3.8 billion) in 2024 alone. Italy also remains a leading European producer of persimmons, where ethylene application is already widely used in post-harvest operations.
On-site ethylene generation offers a solution to supply chain volatility and geopolitical risks that affect traditional gas sources. Greg Akins, President & CEO of Catalytic Generators, explained the strategic advantage. “Ethylene is a high-demand commodity used across multiple industrial sectors. Recent geopolitical conflict is creating increasing pressure on availability and pricing stability in some regions. Our systems enable on-site ethylene generation, helping operators reduce dependency on external supply chains, gain greater control over supply, and limit exposure to volatility.”
Moreover, the company’s system allows users to generate ethylene directly in the ripening room, in a controlled, repeatable manner. “Ease, simplicity and safety are key. Operators can pour in a litre of concentrate, see it dissipate and know that ethylene has been applied,” Akins said.
Catalytic Generators focuses exclusively on ethylene, providing specialized expertise, consistent supply, and dedicated support to ripening operators.
“As ripeners move to our system, we see significant sales growth in the next 6 to 12 months,” Akins noted.
Additionally, this technology adapts to different crops, including bananas, avocados, mangoes, and persimmons, offering consistent ripening results without reliance on external ethylene suppliers.
As ripening operations face increasing pressure to deliver uniform quality while managing costs, catalytic generators provide a specialized alternative to traditional gas cylinder systems.
Catalytic Generators’ Italian expansion signals growing recognition that ripening technology must evolve from complex gas-handling systems to simplified, on-site systems that prioritize operational simplicity and regulatory compliance.
Sign up HERE to receive our email newsletters with the latest news and insights from Africa and around the world, and follow us on our WhatsApp channel for updates.
