BIG POSSIBILITIES

Dominion, Volume 21, Issue 222, 20 June 1928, Page 12

BIG POSSIBILITIES

VACUUM PACKING OF DAIRY PRODUCE BIG FREIGHT SAVING EXPECTED BY I'ELEGEIPH -PRESS ASSOCIATION Ilawera, June 19. The possibility of an important extension in the use of vacuum packing process for dairy products is indicated in a cablegram received here from H. A. Lane ami Co., of London, stating that a shipment of Hawera butter; vacuum packed and forwarded on the steamer Devon early in April, opened up superior in flavour and in fresher condition than obtained with produce forwarded in the usual manner in boxes.

Hitherto investigations concerning the process so far as it affects dairy produce have been in relation to cheese only.

The cable message advises that the containers referred to were opened in the presence of Messrs. Davies (Control Board representative), Wright and Ross (New Zealand Department of Agriculture), and Vickeridge. Arising out of the experience gained through the recent fire in the West Coast Refrigerating Company’s building, when it was found that cheese packed in vacuum containers left in an open room and exposed to heat, had not been impaired, another experiment, the result of which may point the way to extensive economy in freight charges, is at present under way. Three hundred vacuum containers carrying cheese are being forwarded to London as ordinary cargo, it being claimed that if the method is successful a saving of over £3 a ton on freight charges, will be possible.