Cold Storage of Onion - Industrial Cold Room & Equipments

Philippines cold storage room project-MELUCK refrigeration system

Size: 20X8.2X6.1M

Products: Onions

Room temp: -5~10C adjustable

Location: Philippines

what should we pay attentions for onions cold storage?

When storing onions in a cold storage facility, there are several important factors to consider to ensure the onions remain fresh and maintain their quality throughout storage. Paying attention to these key aspects will help optimize the storage conditions and extend the shelf life of onions:

Temperature Control:

1. Optimal Storage Temperature: Maintain a consistent temperature ideally between 32°F to 40°F (0°C to 4°C) for short-term storage. For longer storage durations, temperatures closer to 32°F (0°C) are preferred to inhibit sprouting and decay.
2. Avoid Temperature Fluctuations: Keep the storage temperature stable and avoid fluctuations, as sudden temperature changes can lead to moisture condensation and affect onion quality.

Humidity Management:

1. Ideal Relative Humidity (RH): Maintain a relative humidity level of around 65% to 70% for onions. Proper humidity helps prevent dehydration and sprouting.
2. Humidity Monitoring: Use hygrometers to monitor humidity levels within the storage room and adjust humidity as needed to maintain optimal conditions.

Air Circulation:

1. Good Ventilation: Ensure proper air circulation throughout the storage facility to prevent the buildup of moisture and heat pockets.
2. Prevent Ethylene Accumulation: Provide adequate ventilation to disperse ethylene gas released by onions and other produce, as ethylene can accelerate onion ripening and decay.

Storage Containers and Layout:

1. Avoid Overcrowding: Store onions in well-ventilated containers or bins that allow for air circulation. Avoid stacking onions too high, which can impede airflow and lead to uneven cooling.
2. Use Proper Shelving: Use pallets or racks to keep onions off the floor and allow air to circulate around them.

Ethylene Management:

1. Ethylene Sensitivity: Onions are sensitive to ethylene gas, which can cause premature sprouting and decay. Keep onions away from ethylene-producing fruits such as apples, bananas, and tomatoes.
2. Ethylene Absorbers: Consider using ethylene-absorbing products or ethylene scrubbers within the storage room to reduce ethylene levels.

Disease and Pest Control:

1. Preventative Measures: Implement proper sanitation practices to minimize the risk of diseases and pests.
2. Regular Inspections: Routinely inspect stored onions for signs of mold, rot, or pest infestations and promptly remove any affected onions to prevent spread.

Light Exposure:

1. Keep Onions in Darkness: Store onions in a dark environment to prevent greening and sprouting. Avoid exposing onions to direct sunlight or bright lighting.

Regular Monitoring and Maintenance:

1. Temperature and Humidity Monitoring: Use temperature and humidity monitoring devices to regularly check storage conditions.
2. Equipment Maintenance: Maintain cooling systems, ventilation, and humidity control equipment to ensure they are functioning properly.

By carefully managing these aspects of cold storage, you can maximize the storage life of onions and preserve their quality for market distribution or consumer use. Adjustments to storage parameters may be necessary based on onion variety, storage duration, and environmental conditions within the storage facility. Regular monitoring and adjustments will help optimize storage conditions and minimize onion spoilage.