Carrier Transicold has received an order for 1,000 OptimaLINE container refrigeration units equipped with EverFRESH controlled atmosphere (CA) technology from Great White Fleet, the ocean transportation division of Chiquita Group.
The investment expands Great White Fleet’s controlled atmosphere capabilities, supporting the transport of perishable cargo such as bananas with enhanced freshness, reliability, and energy efficiency. The EverFRESH system enables active management of oxygen and carbon dioxide (CO₂) levels to slow ripening and extend shelf life for sensitive perishables.
Key features of the OptimaLINE with EverFRESH units include the ability to set oxygen levels between 1–17% and CO₂ levels between 1–19%, integrated gas sensors for real-time monitoring, and an option for CO₂ charging. According to Carrier, the units can reduce annual energy costs by up to 15% and cut CO₂ emissions by up to 40% compared to previous models.
Kay Henze, Account Manager, Global Container Refrigeration at Carrier Transicold, stated: “EverFRESH is engineered for precision and performance with robust CO₂ control that’s critical for sensitive shipments like bananas, helping preserve freshness from origin to destination.”
Great White Fleet has a history of adopting advanced cold chain technologies, including previous investments in Carrier’s PrimeLINE units. This latest order supports the company’s goals in cargo quality, extended shelf life, and sustainability.
“Chiquita is a global leader in banana production and export, and freshness is non-negotiable,” said Stefano Di Paolo, President of Great White Fleet. “With EverFRESH and OptimaLINE, we are not only preserving quality, we’re also expanding our reach and reinforcing reliability across longer voyages.”
