SGS utilizes advanced technology in its organic stone fruit program

Scattaglia Growers and Shippers (SGS) is a grower, packer and shipper located in the heart of California's Central Valley. In addition to its conventional offerings, the company has recently introduced an organic stone fruit program consisting of peaches, plums and nectarines. SGS believes in producing healthy, safe fruit while also protecting the environment and these values are at the core of its new program.

SGS focuses on three key  points to ensure the supply of premium-quality produce: superb size, color and flavor. According to Kira Navison, marketing director for SGS, the company’s organic grower installed an Aweta sizer that uses advanced AI technology for precise fruit grading. This upholds consistency in fruit size, vibrant color and exceptional flavor, ensuring consumers have consistent expectations for their stone fruit.

“We wait until our fruit is the right size, full of color and has reached optimum Brix before harvesting,” said Navison.

In addition, Clean Works — a waterless technology that sanitizes fruit and safeguards against pathogens — is being used to enhance consumer safety by reducing the risk of illness and extending the shelf life of fruit. According to Navison, there has been  a noticeable difference in efficiency since Clean Works has been incorporated into SGS’s operations.

“We are the only company in the United States that is utilizing Clean Works technology for organic stone fruit post-harvest,” she said.

One of SGS’s multi-generational growers, Kliewer Farms, opted to convert its stone fruit assortment to organic produce, sharing SGS’s commitment to sustainable fruit cultivation. This shared ethos creates a strong partnership. The companies also share high expectations for a successful season.

This year,  the industries overall organic stone fruit crop is lighter, leading Navison to be confident and ready to enter the category, along with the rest of the team.

“We are diving ‘all in’ into the organic world and we will have a booth at OPS this year,” said Navison. “Stop by booth No. 403 to say hello, meet the grower, sample our fruit, have the chance to win a fun giveaway and learn more about our program.”