Cutting-edge controlled atmosphere technology
Food preservation innovation made in South Tyrol
South Tyrol is renowned for its highly specialised technological skills, precision, and ability to respond to concrete needs with innovative solutions. Isolcell is a prime example: founded in 1958 to meet the challenges of food preservation, the Laives/Leifers company was a European pioneer in the development of controlled atmosphere technology. Today, its integrated systems precisely regulate the composition of gases, allowing food to be stored for longer through controlled physical processes. This know-how is also applied in other sectors, from fire prevention to protecting cultural heritage.
“Isolcell’s strength lies in its ability to develop innovative and reliable technologies for atmospheric control. Our most unique asset is our experience in food preservation, combined with our continuous search for increasingly efficient and sustainable technological solutions.”
From fruit preservation to new technological applications
Drawing on extensive experience in food conservation methods, Isolcell has developed specialist skills in gas management and atmospheric control. The company’s innovative path is marked by several important milestones: from the first activated carbon CO₂ scrubber, developed with Sulzer in 1965, to the introduction of chemical-free pest control methods in 1978, and from ULO technology in 1982 to the ADOX adsorber patent in 1998.
These skills have paved the way for new applications. In 2001, Isolcell created the protective showcases for Ötzi the Iceman at the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology in Bolzano/Bozen, and in 2005, the company introduced the N₂ Firefighter® system for fire prevention.
Innovation and automation for food preservation
Technological precision translates into concrete solutions for the food industry. Isolcell develops systems that integrate nitrogen generators, CO₂ and ethylene gas abatement technologies, and automated monitoring, allowing for reliable control over storage conditions.
The latest innovations include Deoxyl Gold, a line of ethylene gas scrubbers designed to optimise the long-term preservation of delicate fruits such as yellow kiwis and tropical fruit.
A concrete example is the plant built for Agrintesa in Castel Bolognese, within the Zespri supply chain. The project includes 44 new controlled atmosphere cells over 8,100 m², providing an additional capacity of approximately 11,400 tonnes. Thanks to the automated gas management, premium yellow kiwis can be stored for up to seven months.
Isolcell perfectly demonstrates how the technological skills developed in South Tyrol can be translated into precision systems, automated solutions and competitive industrial applications in international markets.
Behind the scenes
Gain insights into outstanding companies in South Tyrol. They showcase the potential of this unique business region and set new standards beyond its borders.
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