At Peris, we use the word quality a lot, but it doesn’t wear out. We polish it every day and try to underpin it more and more, so that this concept becomes an ever larger umbrella under which all the company’s departments are sheltered. We have a quality department, which coordinates, proposes, trains and audits that everything is carried out according to internal regulations, and also that which is marked by the numerous quality certificates we have(IFS Food v8, GlobalG.A.P., ISO 14001 and CAECV Ecological Production). In people’s imagination, the concept of ‘quality’ is usually associated with the final product. In our case, for example, fruit and vegetables in the fresh-cut range such as melons, watermelons, pumpkins, white celery and bean sprouts. Also fresh-cut fruit and vegetables, such as pomegranate, carrots, mango, coconut, pumpkin, etc.
And finally, products of V rangesuch as roasted pumpkin and fruit in syrup. But what would become of a good quality melon that is not transported properly, that is not labeled with the origin data, that is not stored at the right temperature, that is not packed with the care it requires, that is not distributed in a timely manner? It happens that the quality of the product would be diminished if the same concept of ‘quality’ is not taken into account in all the handling processes. For this very reason, absolutely all members of our team are trained in the concept of quality. And not only in what has to do with production. Also in customer service, cleaning, customer and supplier management, water and air quality control… And a long list of other tasks.
Quality control at every step of the process
At Peris, we know that quality is not a phase or an isolated control point, it is a constant in every stage of the process. To this end, we implement specific controls to ensure that every step of the way is carried out with the utmost care and according to the highest standards. And here are just a few examples.
Water quality control
One of the fundamental pillars to guarantee the safety of our products is water. For its control, we carry out regular monitoring to verify that the water with which we work meets the required quality standards, ensuring that it has the safety parameters to avoid any type of cross-contamination.
Control of calibers, Brix degrees and penetrometry
For us, customer satisfaction is paramount, and we know that each fruit has to meet certain characteristics that we demand of ourselves as a brand. In the case of products such as melon and watermelon, we measure the Brix degree, that is, the sugar content, to ensure that the flavor meets the consumer’s expectations. We also control the sizes, as the size and consistency of each lot must meet our requirements and determine the brand (Peris Dolce, Vicentín, 18 Quilates…) that will be assigned to each lot. In addition, we perform penetrometry tests to measure the firmness of the pulp and ensure that the texture is appropriate, helping the consumer to enjoy a fruit at its optimum ripeness. This allows us to deliver a homogeneous product of excellent quality in each lot that leaves our facilities.
Packaging control for fresh-cut products
The quality of the packaging is as important as the quality of the product it contains. We ensure that fresh-cut packaging is strong and suitable for prolonging the freshness of fruits and vegetables. This involves carrying out durability and resistance tests that certify that the packaging protects the contents during storage and transport. In this way, we ensure that the end consumer receives the product in optimal conditions, both in terms of taste and appearance.
Control of facility cleanliness
Cleanliness is essential in our facilities, not only to comply with regulations, but also because it is a basic component of quality. We implement cleanliness controls in all production and processing areas by means of culture plates that allow us to evaluate the presence of microorganisms and thus prevent any type of contamination. This rigorous control system guarantees that our products are handled in a hygienic and safe environment.
Atmosphere control in containers
For fresh-cut products, preservation is achieved through precise control of the atmosphere in the packages. This system allows us to adjust the levels of gases such as oxygen and carbon dioxide, which slows down the ripening process and microbial proliferation, and maintains the freshness of the food for a longer period of time. At Peris, we dedicate resources to monitor this aspect very carefully, because we know that the right controlled atmosphere in packaging can make all the difference in the consumer experience.
Temperature control in transport
Correct handling is not limited to our facilities, but also extends to transportation. Fresh-cut and pre-prepared convenience food products must be transported at specific temperatures to maintain their freshness and organoleptic properties. For this reason, we control the temperature of the refrigerated trucks that transport our products to avoid breaking the cold chain, thus reinforcing food safety.
Clean room protocols
Finally, we implement rigorous preventive measures for access to the clean rooms where fruits and vegetables are peeled and sliced. Access to these areas requires compliance with strict hygiene protocols and the use of special clothing, which minimizes any possibility of contamination. This precaution is essential to preserve the quality and safety of the food we process, ensuring that it reaches the consumer in optimal conditions. These are just a few examples, there are as many as processes we carry out in the company. That is why at Vicente Peris quality is not only our slogan (‘Peris is quality’), nor is it a set of procedures or certifications, it is a culture that drives every action and decision within the company.