MAY EXPAND

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume 80, 21 April 1945, Page 4

MAY EXPAND

DEHYDRATION PLANT AT MOTUEKA

DEVELOPMENT OF “QLTCKrFREEZE” METHOD MINISTER’S HOPES The possibility of ’‘quick-freeze" and juice extractor plants being established at Motueka in conjunction with the dehydration plant was referred to yesterday by the Hon. C. F. Skinner. Minister of Rehabilitation, when the dehydration factorv hostel was officially opened by Her Excellency, Lady Newall. It was known that when the war was over dehydration would not continue in the way it was proceeding at the present time, said the Minister. He had recently had the opportunity of visiting a plant near Auckland where the ’ quick-freeze” method of packing perishable foods was in operation. The lesuits achieved were amazing. Under tills process the cells of the lruit and vegetables did not break down and when they were thawed out they were indistinguishable from the fresh article. It might be possible to establish a "quick-freeze” plant at Motueka in conjunction with the dehydration factory, continued Mr Skinner. He also hoped to establish a juice extraction plant in the district. There was definitely room for more juice extractors in New Zealand as much of the fruit that was wasted at the present time could be treated in that way. PRESENT PLANT The four New Zealand dehydration plants—at Pukekohe. Christchurch, Hastings and Motueka—were erected as the direct result of a request from the American authorities, who required dehydrated products for their forces in the Pacific area. Most of the plant and machinery is of American origin although some New Zealand made machines and additions nave been incorporated. Potatoes, cabbage, carrot, beetroot, cauliflower and apples are all being dehydrated in New Zealand. Owing to the fact that Motueka is situated in the centre of the largest apple growing district in the Dominion, the Government chose it as the location for one of the two apple dehydration plants, the other being situated at Hastings. Working two 10 hours shifts, the factory is capable of processing 1.000 cases (about 20 tons) of fresh fruit per day. During the 1944 season (which was a short one owing to the factory not being completed and not commencing operations until June) 810 tons of fresh apples were dehydrated, ylcldim' 98 tons of dried product. This was ail delivered to the forces in the Pacific area. This season. operating from March to August, it is planned to process double the quantity dehydrated in 1944. To enable this programme to be carried out a staff of over 60 is employi ed at the factory.