JBT Marel’s smart wax coating technology slashes product waste

The fully automated ProDOSE Pineapple Wax Dosing Machine from JBT Marel is intended to transform the way that large producers preserve fresh pineapple.

According to the global packaging and processing provider, it establishes a new benchmark for companies dedicated to providing premium fruit with increased efficiency and consistency by serving as a scalable substitute for antiquated wax dosing techniques.

In recognition of this significant innovation, ProDOSE Pineapple was awarded the title of Freshness Control Solution of the Year in the 2025 AgTech Breakthrough Awards, in advance of the product’s official launch. 

“The ProDOSE Pineapple takes what is typically an error-prone step in postharvest processing and automates it, solving a critical challenge for one of the most in-demand segments of the produce industry,” said Christina Campos, JBT Marel general manager. “It’s a ground-breaking advancement that reflects our commitment to raising the bar for food safety, quality and preservation while reducing manual effort and waste.” 

Traditionally, wax dosing and concentration monitoring for fresh pineapples have been a manual process that requires labour-intensive wax solution recharging every 20 minutes. This method introduces the risk of human error, which can result in over- or underdosing of the wax solution, potentially leading to over-concentrated wax, which wastes product, or under-concentrated coating, which risks spoilage before the fruit reaches its destination. With the ProDOSE Pineapple, this task is now automated, ensuring each pineapple is coated evenly and consistently.  

“Beyond consistency and efficiency, our ProDOSE Pineapple gives producers greater control and flexibility over the waxing process,” adds Fernando Edagi, product line director for JBT Marel Fresh Produce Technologies. “With a range of application settings, it allows operators to adjust for the specific post-harvest needs of different pineapple varieties and external conditions.” 

ProDOSE Pineapple also features real-time monitoring and data logging through a user-friendly mobile app and wireless data transmission for seamless integration and accurate record-keeping. Learn more here.