Flower preservation and antifungal system

Abstract

The present invention relates to a cut flower preservation and antifungal system for use during transportation or storage of cut flowers in boxes or cartons and / or during retail display of cut flowers placed in barrels, wherein the cut flower preservation device comprises one or more sulfur dioxide (SO2)-producing multilayer laminated articles and optionally a further single-sided kraft paper (SFK) layer as a mechanical protection device.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to a cut flower preservation and anti-fungal system for use during transportation or storage of cut flowers in boxes or cartons and / or during retail display of cut flowers placed in buckets, wherein the cut flower preservation device comprises one or more multi-layered laminated articles producing sulfur dioxide (SO2) and optionally a further single faced kraft (SFK) layer as a mechanical protection device. BACKGROUND

[0002] The cut flower industry is a rapidly growing global industry, showing a global trade volume of over $100 billion in recent years. Losses of flowers susceptible to fungal infection, including Botrytis, have resulted in millions of dollars of lost revenue for flower sellers.

[0003] Current methods of flower preservation include dipping the flower head into an anti-microbial solution, such as commercial bleach, followed by drying, or treating the water holding the flower stem with a solution comprising various components, including bleach, sugar, various anti-fungal chemicals, etc. (collectively referred to herein as “post-harvest treatment”). Current post-harvest treatment is insufficient to limit fungal growth on flowers, and the industry is in need of a change. While somewhat effective, soaking in post-harvest chemicals is time consuming, labor intensive, and if not properly dried after the soaking process, wet packaged flowers in cartons are subject to a higher likelihood of infection by disease.

[0004] International transportation of cut flowers can take 5 to 7 days or even longer, depending on the destination, and while it is desirable to keep the transport container at about 0°C to 4°C, it does happen that during transportation of the flowers the transport container is opened in one or more steps, resulting in an increase in temperature, and thus in deterioration of the quality of the flowers, and in typically greater losses of flowers that cannot be sold due to poor quality.

[0005] Although SO2-producing laminated films are known, for example described in Clemes et al. (US 5,106,596 and US 7,045,182), it has been found that when used with cut flowers rather than with the grapes for which they were developed, they result in significant phytotoxicity due to the extreme sensitivity of cut flowers to SO2 at too high a level. EP 3 139 737 describes flower preservative devices for use with flower bouquets during short wet transport in buckets or when displayed in shops, but these flower preservative devices are designed to be used only when the flowers are outside their transport cartons and are attached as a strip to the end of a flower sleeve with an end opening adjacent the head of the cut flower or are held above the head of the cut flower and in the form of a clip. The flower preservative device described in WO 2006 / 129172 comprises the use of an ethylene absorber and sodium metabisulphite (SMBS) contained in an internal matrix between a SO2-impermeable carrier and a cover sheet, wherein in the case of roses the concentration of SMBS is 3 to 15% (w / w), more preferably 5 to 10% (w / w), and wherein the cut flowers are contained in a gas-impermeable bag, or the carrier and cover sheet form the bag containing the flowers. In practice, however, it has been found that the products described in both EP 3 139 737 and WO 2006 / 129172 are suboptimal for the preservation of cut flowers.

[0006] Furthermore, none of these prior art provides a recyclable solution for cut flower preservation; the use of mixed plastic polymers in the substrate layer and the adhesive internal containing microcrystalline wax are problematic for recycling.

[0007] Therefore, there is still a need for a method or device for preventing the quality deterioration of cut flowers in a container or box during shipping, transport or storage, including during the retail phase in which the cut flowers are placed in a bucket, particularly when there is a temperature increase during shipping, transport or storage, which in turn leads to an increased ability of fungi, including Botrytis sp. fungi, to grow on the cut flowers and their stems. It would be useful if such a device could be used in a mechanical protector, such as a single face Kraft paper (SFK) wrap, and in the box or container in which the cut flowers are held during shipping, transport or storage, and possibly also during the retail phase when the flowers are stored in a bucket containing water. It would be further useful if such a solution was made of recyclable materials. SUMMARY

[0008] According to a first aspect of the present application, there is provided a cut flower preservation and anti-fungal system for use during the transport and / or storage of cut flowers within a container or box, including a paperboard, plastic or metal container or box, and / or during the display of the cut flowers in a bucket at a retail outlet, the cut flower preservation system comprising:

[0009] A. one or more multi-layer laminated article that produces sulfur dioxide (SO2) comprising or consisting of:

[0010] (i) a first substrate material layer selected from any one of the group consisting of paper including SFK, kraft paper, or Machine Glazed Bleached Kraft (MGBK) paper; polyolefin film including BOPP, LDPE, or HDPE; or polyester film including PET;

[0011] (ii) a second substrate material layer selected from any one of the group consisting of paper including SFK, kraft paper, or MGBK paper; polyolefin film including BOPP, LDPE, or HDPE; or polyester film,

[0012] the polyester film including PET,

[0013] wherein the first and second substrate material layers can be the same or can be different; and

[0014] wherein the first paper layer can have a thickness ranging from about 13 GSM (grams per square meter) to about 300 GSM or any sub-range contained therein, the first polyolefin film layer can have a thickness ranging from 9 pm to 150 pm or any sub-range contained therein, and the first polyester film layer can have a thickness ranging from 3 pm to 100 pm or any sub-range contained therein; and

[0015] wherein the second paper layer can have a thickness ranging from about 13 GSM to about 300 GSM or any sub-range contained therein, the second polyolefin film layer can have a thickness ranging from 9 pm to 150 pm or any sub-range contained therein, and the second polyester film layer can have a thickness ranging from 3 pm to 100 pm or any sub-range contained therein; and

[0016] (iii) an internal adhesive layer having a coat weight ranging from about 1 GSM to about 100 GSM or any sub-range contained therein, containing an adhesive composition including a polyurethane adhesive composition, more preferably a solventless polyurethane adhesive composition, at a concentration ranging from about 30 weight / weight % to about 90 weight / weight % (weight / weight) or any sub-range contained therein; and sodium metabisulfite (SMBS) microparticles at a concentration ranging from about 10% to about 70% (weight / weight) or any sub-range contained therein, the sodium metabisulfite (SMBS) microparticles having a diameter ranging from about 1 pm to about 250 pm or any sub-range contained therein, and

[0017] B. Optionally further comprising a single face Kraft paper (SFK) layer for protection of the flower from mechanical damage.

[0018] In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, the cut flower preservation and anti-fungal system further comprises a single face Kraft paper (SFK) layer for protection of the flower from mechanical damage.

[0019] In particular, the concentration of the solventless polyurethane adhesive composition can be about 40% to about 80% (weight / weight), or about 50% to about 70% (weight / weight), and the concentration of the sodium metabisulfite (SMBS) microparticles having a diameter of about 10 pm to about 70 pm, or about 20 pm to about 50 pm, can be about 40% to about 80% (weight / weight), or about 50% to about 70% (weight / weight).

[0020] The paper can be a paper coated on one or both surfaces with a coating such as, but not limited to, any one or more of water vapour transmission rate (WVTR) or oxygen transmission rate (OTR) control coatings, or hydrophobic, hydrophilic or primer coatings well known in the art, or can be an uncoated paper. Alternatively, the paper can be a paper coated on one or both surfaces with a polyolefin film comprising BOPP, LDPE or HDPE, or a polyester film comprising PET. When the paper is coated on one surface, the inner adhesive layer is coated onto the coated surface of the paper.

[0021] The thickness of the first and second paper layers, polyolefin film or polyester film is particularly selected for optimal permeability to allow water vapour to travel inwardly from the air in the container or box, through the paper, polyolefin film or polyester film and to the SMBS microparticles in the inner adhesive layer, thereby activating the SMBS to release SO2gas which in turn travels outwardly through the paper, polyolefin film or polyester film to reach the cut flower at a concentration effective to reduce levels of pathogens including Botrytis cinerea (B. cinerea) in the cut flower or to reach the cut flower at a concentration effective to inhibit growth of pathogens including Botrytis cinerea (B. cinerea) in the cut flower.

[0022] In particular, the thickness of the first and second paper layers can range from about 13 GSM to about 300 GSM or any sub-range contained therein, the thickness of the first and second polyolefin film layers can range from about 9 pm to about 150 pm, more preferably from about 10 pm to about 50 pm or any sub-range contained therein, and the thickness of the first and second polyester film layers can range from 3 pm to 100 pm, more preferably from about 10 pm to about 50 pm or any sub-range contained therein.

[0023] It should be noted that the concentration and SMBS particle diameter are specifically selected in conjunction with the selected substrate material thickness to produce an effective level of SO2 gas in the container or box of from about 1 ppm to about 200 ppm for a period of from 5 days to 70 days, more typically from about 20 days to about 30 days.

[0024] In the case of using two sulfur dioxide (SO2)-generating multilayer laminates, the thickness of the first and second paper layers, polyolefin film or polyester film and / or the coating weight of the internal adhesive layer can be different between the first and second articles.

[0025] The one or more sulfur dioxide (SO2)-generating multilayer laminates can be in the form of a sheet that is operatively wrapped around an upper about one-third to one-half portion of the cut flower stem and encloses the flower head; or can be in the form of a sleeve having a generally frustoconical shape that encloses the cut flower stem; or can be in the form of a bag that is placed over the cut flower head; or can be in the form of a cover that slides over the top opening of a container or box used for cut flower transport and / or storage.

[0026] In one specific embodiment of the present invention, there is one sulfur dioxide (SO2)-generating multilayer laminate in the form of a sheet that is operatively wrapped around an upper about one-third to one-half portion of the cut flower stem and encloses the flower head.

[0027] In an alternative specific embodiment of the present invention, there is one sulfur dioxide (SO2)-generating multilayer laminate in the form of a sleeve having a generally frustoconical shape that encloses the cut flower stem.

[0028] SFKs are currently commercially used to wrap around cut flowers as a barrier to mechanical damage. When used in addition to the cut flower preservative system of the present invention, the first sulfur dioxide (SO2)-generating multilayer laminate can be placed on or grafted to the surface of the SFK that is oriented toward the cut flower when the cut flower is wrapped.

[0029] Alternatively, the SFK can be wrapped directly around the cut flower according to standard commercial methods, and the SFK-wrapped flower is subsequently inserted into the sulfur dioxide (SO2)-generating multilayer laminate in the form of a sleeve having a generally frustoconical shape that encloses the SFK-wrapped cut flower stem.

[0030] In one possible embodiment of the present application, the cut flowers wrapped in the first sulfur dioxide (SO2)-generating multilayer laminate, with or without the SFK attached to the first sulfur dioxide (SO2)-generating multilayer laminate, can be inserted into a second sulfur dioxide (SO2)-generating multilayer laminate in the form of a flower sleeve (the flower sleeve having a generally frustoconical shape) so that it encloses the wrapped cut flower bouquet. It should be understood that in this embodiment of the present application, the cut flowers are removed from the container or box in which they were shipped after they reach the retailer and the first sulfur dioxide (SO2)-generating multilayer laminate, with or without the SFK, can be removed, but the second sulfur dioxide (SO2)-generating multilayer laminate in the form of a flower sleeve is retained so that when displayed at the retailer, the cut flowers are enclosed by the second sulfur dioxide (SO2)-generating multilayer flower sleeve.

[0031] The system can be used after post-harvest treatment of the cut flowers, or without post-harvest treatment.

[0032] In one embodiment of the present application, the cut flower preservation and anti-fungal system of the present application is used during the shipping or storage of the cut flowers while they are in the shipping / storage container or box, and is removed from the cut flowers and discarded after the flowers reach the retailer and are placed in a bucket for display, the cut flower preservation and anti-fungal system having one sulfur dioxide (SO2)-generating multilayer laminate in the form of a sheet that is operatively wrapped around the upper one-third to one-half portion of the cut flower bouquet and encloses the flower head. In any event, Applicant has found that the residual effect of the SO2 generated by the cut flower preservation and anti-fungal device during shipping and / or storage results in a reduction in the level of gray mold on the cut flowers so that there is an increase in the duration of the life of the cut flowers during the period of display in the retail store, and even thereafter during display of the cut flowers in a vase after purchase by a consumer.

[0033] In one alternative embodiment of the present application, the cut flower preservation and anti-fungal system of the present application is used during the shipping or storage of the cut flowers while they are in the shipping or storage container or box, and while in the water bucket during display of the cut flowers at the retailer, the cut flower preservation and anti-fungal system having one sulfur dioxide (SO2)-generating multilayer laminate in the form of a flower sleeve having a generally frustoconical shape that encloses the cut flower bouquet.

[0034] In one possible embodiment of the present application, the cut flowers are summer flowers, including roses, Alstroemeria sp., or Helianthus sp., including Helianthus annuus, more commonly known as sunflowers. In particular, the cut flowers are roses.

[0035] The cut flower preservation and anti-fungal device can particularly inhibit the growth of botrytis on cut flowers.

[0036] According to a second aspect of the present application, there is provided a method for manufacturing a sulfur dioxide (SO2) generating multi-layered laminate for use with the cut flower preservation and anti-fungal system of the present application, the method comprising the steps of:

[0037] (a) providing a first substrate material layer selected from any one of the group consisting of: paper including SFK, Kraft paper, or single face light bleached Kraft (MGBK) paper; polyolefin film including BOPP, LDPE, or HDPE; or polyester film including PET;

[0038] (b) applying an adhesive layer on the first substrate material layer using a laminator or a coater, the adhesive layer having a coat weight of about 1 GSM to about 100 GSM, more preferably about 10 GSM to about 30 GSM or any sub-range contained therein, comprising or consisting of: an adhesive composition including a polyurethane adhesive composition, more preferably a solventless polyurethane adhesive composition, at a concentration of about 30% to about 90% (w / w) or any sub-range contained therein; and sodium metabisulfite (SMBS) microparticles at a concentration of about 10% to about 70% (w / w) or any sub-range contained therein, the sodium metabisulfite (SMBS) microparticles having a diameter of about 1 pm to about 250 pm or any sub-range contained therein, and

[0039] (c) laminating a second substrate material layer on the adhesive layer using a laminator such that the adhesive layer is sandwiched between the first substrate material layer and the second substrate material layer, the second substrate material layer selected from any one of the group consisting of: paper including SFK, Kraft paper, or single face light bleached Kraft (MGBK) paper; polyolefin film including BOPP, LDPE, or HDPE; or polyester film including PET.

[0040] In particular, the thickness of the first and second paper layers can range from about 13 GSM to about 300 GSM or any sub-range contained therein, the thickness of the first and second polyolefin film layers can range from about 9 pm to about 150 pm, more preferably about 10 pm to about 50 pm or any sub-range contained therein, and the thickness of the first and second polyester film layers can range from 3 pm to 100 pm, more preferably about 10 pm to about 50 pm or any sub-range contained therein.

[0041] In particular, the concentration of the solvent-free polyurethane adhesive composition can be from about 40% to about 80% (w / w), or from about 50% to about 70% (w / w), and the concentration of the sodium metabisulfite (SMBS) microparticles having a diameter of from about 10 pm to about 70 pm, or from about 20 pm to about 50 pm, can be from about 40% to about 80% (w / w), or from about 50% to about 70% (w / w).

[0042] The first and second substrate layers can have the same or different thicknesses. The first and second layers can have the same or different substrate materials.

[0043] One or both of the first and second substrate material layers can be micro-perforated, for example by hot needle perforation. For example, the perforations can have a diameter of from 0.05 mm to 2.8 mm, with a spacing of 10 mm therebetween, and in the form of lines with a spacing of 5 mm between the lines, each perforation in a line being offset by 5 mm compared to the line above and below.

[0044] The multi-layered laminated article producing sulfur dioxide (SO2) can be cut to the desired size prior to use with the cut flower preservation and anti-fungal system of the present invention.

[0045] The cut flower preservation and anti-fungal system of the present invention can be further cut to the desired size prior to use with the cut flowers in a container or box during transportation and / or storage.

[0046] According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of preserving cut flowers in a container or box during transportation and / or storage, and / or during display in a bucket at a retailer, the method comprising inhibiting the growth of fungal pathogens, in particular Botrytis cinerea, with the cut flower preservation and anti-fungal system of the present invention.

[0047] In particular, Figure 1 One possible embodiment of the method is shown, which comprises or consists of the following steps:

[0048] (A) providing a sheet of the cut flower preservation and anti-fungal device of the present invention comprising a multi-layered laminated article producing sulfur dioxide (SO2), and optionally comprising a single face kraft paper (SFK) layer for protecting the flowers from mechanical damage;

[0049] (B) placing a plurality of stems of cut flowers to be transported and / or stored on the sheet, such that when the SFK is present, the multi-layered laminated article producing sulfur dioxide (SO2) is oriented towards the cut flowers as they are wrapped; and

[0050] (C) wrapping the sheet of the cut flower preservation and anti-fungal device of the present invention around the cut flowers.

[0051] The method can further include the step of securing the edges of the wrapped stems to each other and / or placing the wrapped cut flowers into a container or box for transport and / or storage.

[0052] In an alternative embodiment of the present application, the wrapped cut flowers of step (C) above are inserted into a second sulfur dioxide (SO2) generating multilayer laminate article in the form of a flower sleeve having a generally frustoconical shape that surrounds the wrapped cut flowers.

[0053] In a further alternative embodiment of the present application, the method comprises or consists of the steps of:

[0054] I. providing a plurality of cut stems;

[0055] II. providing a sulfur dioxide (SO2) generating multilayer laminate article of the present application in the form of a flower sleeve having a generally frustoconical shape;

[0056] III. inserting the plurality of cut stems into the flower sleeve, or wrapping the flower sleeve around the cut stems so that the generally frustoconical flower sleeve surrounds the cut stems.

[0057] The SFK can also be wrapped directly around the cut stems, or the cut stems surrounded by the flower sleeve can be placed on the SFK and the SFK can be wrapped around the flowers contained in the flower sleeve for protection of the flowers from mechanical damage.

[0058] The size of the sulfur dioxide (SO2) generating multilayer laminate article can be selected to ensure that for the duration of transport and / or storage, which is typically from 5 days to 70 days, more typically from about 20 days to about 30 days, an effective preservative and anti-fungal concentration of SO2 gas from about 1 ppm to about 200 ppm is generated when the article is wrapped around the cut stems or the cut stems are contained in the flower sleeve without bleaching the cut stems.

[0059] For example, for up to 10 cut stems of flowers having a head size of about 250 mm to 350 mm in circumference including sweetheart roses, a sulfur dioxide (SO2) generating multilayer laminate article size of about 356 mm x 90 mm or about 356 mm x 180 mm is used.

[0060] Alternatively, for up to 10 cut stems of flowers having a head size of about 400 mm to 600 mm including intermediate roses and tea hybrid roses, a sulfur dioxide (SO2) generating multilayer laminate article size of about 520 mm x 90 mm or about 520 mm x 180 mm is used.

[0061] It will be appreciated that flower head sizes greater than 600mm, including premium roses, can require larger sized pieces, including about 700mm or 800mm x 180mm, but about 520mm x 180mm should be sufficient if the stems are tied with less than 10 stems per bunch.

[0062] It will also be appreciated that one or more SO2 generating multi-layered laminated articles are not wrapped around the plurality of stems of the cut flower, but can be in the form of a pouch placed over the head of the cut flower, or can be in the form of a lid that slides over the top opening of a container or box used for the transport and / or storage of the cut flower.

[0063] According to a fifth aspect of the present application, there is provided a cut flower preservation and anti-fungal system according to the present application, substantially as herein described with reference to any one of the illustrative examples. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0064] The present application will be described with reference to the following illustrative drawings, which should not be considered limiting of the present application:

[0065] Figure 1 A representative illustration of one method for wrapping a cut flower with a cut flower preservation and anti-fungal system of the present application such that the SFK is external to the flower wrapped with the SO2 generating device is shown;

[0066] Figure 2 A graph showing the percentage of decay inhibition after a 7 day vased life of a cut rose, comparing one embodiment of a cut flower preservation and anti-fungal system of the present application ("FW"), the same embodiment of a cut flower preservation and anti-fungal system of the present application after post-harvest treatment ("FW PH"), or post-harvest treatment alone ("PH"), relative to the level of decay inhibition in negative control cut roses;

[0067] Figure 3 A graph showing the percentage of development of Botrytis rot in Red One roses during vased life treated with different SO2 generating products;

[0068] Figure 4 A graph showing SO2 damage observed on the head of Red One roses after treatment with different SO2 generating products;

[0069] Figure 5 A graph showing average post-harvest decay on standard cut roses after a 7 day vased life simulation. The percentage shown in bold in the graph reflects the decay inhibition value relative to the control.

[0070] Figure 6Product SO2 emission curves over time for Florasys, BLR7 and FEBS Sleeve test articles are shown; and

[0071] Figure 7 Product SO2 emission curves over time for Uvasys, Vivo 1 and Vivo 2 test articles are shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0072] The present invention relates to a cut flower preservation and anti-fungal system for use during transportation or storage of cut flowers in boxes or cartons and / or during retail display of cut flowers placed in buckets, wherein the cut flower preservation device comprises one or more multi-layered laminated articles generating sulfur dioxide (SO2) comprising: an adhesive layer sandwiched between two substrate layers of paper, polyolefin film (including BOPP, LDPE or HDPE) or polyester film (including PET), wherein the adhesive layer comprises from about 10% to about 70% (w / w) of SMBS microparticles having a diameter of from about 1 pm to 250 pm; and optionally an additional layer of single face kraft paper (SFK) as a mechanical protection device. The present invention also relates to a method of manufacturing the cut flower preservation and anti-fungal system of the present invention, and to a method of preserving and inhibiting the growth of fungal pathogens, including Botrytis cinerea, using the system of the present invention.

[0073] The following description of the present invention provided as an enabling teaching of the present invention is an illustration of the principles of the present invention and is not intended to limit the scope of the present invention. It is understood that changes can be made to the embodiments depicted and described, and yet obtain the beneficial results of the present invention. Moreover, it is understood that some benefits of the present invention can be obtained with a

[0074] Example 1

[0075] Objectives, materials and methods

[0076] An efficacy trial was conducted to determine the efficacy of a sulfur dioxide (SO2) generating laminated article (hereinafter referred to as “Florasys Wrap”) used with the cut flower preservation and anti-fungal device of the present invention in preventing the growth of fungal pathogens, Botrytis cinerea, on cut roses over time after simulated transportation or storage.

[0077] Efficacy trials were conducted on some rose varieties from several growers in Kenya and South Africa during 2021 and 2022. The varieties used in the trials were identified by the growers as being the most problematic for Botrytis cinerea infection.

[0078] The Florasys Wrap for efficacy trials consisted of two polyolefin films of thickness from about 10 pm to about 40 pm laminated together with an internal adhesive layer comprising a solventless polyurethane adhesive composition at a concentration of from about 30% to about 50% (weight / weight) and sodium metabisulfite (SMBS) particles of diameter from about 20 pm to about 50 pm at a concentration of from about 50% to about 70% (weight / weight), the internal adhesive layer having a coat weight of from about 10 GSM to about 30 GSM.

[0079] For each trial, fresh cut roses were obtained and packaged at the grower’s warehouse according to the packaging method listed below.

[0080] In each trial, cut roses were packaged in a typical cardboard box (2 to 5 board layers) (commercial rose shipping carton) of 10 stems per bunch, the cardboard box being on average 1000 mm (L), 300 mm (W), 200 mm (H). Each box had two ventilation holes on each short end, with no ventilation holes on the sides of the box.

[0081] Group 1) Negative Control

[0082] Cut flowers roses without any type of postharvest treatment and without Florasys Wrap but wrapped in SFK. Figure 2 All results provided in Table 1 are calculated as relative values compared to the level of infection / decay observed on these negative control roses.

[0083] Group 2) Post-Harvest Treatment Only

[0084] Cut flowers roses subjected to postharvest treatment by dipping them in a commercially available postharvest treatment solution for about 2 minutes. Thereafter, the cut flower bunches were air dried, with their cut stems being placed in a hydrating solution at a temperature of about 4°C to 6°C for up to 4 hours to pre-cool the cut flowers, and then packaged without Florasys Wrap but wrapped in SFK.

[0085] Group 3) FloraSys Wrap Only

[0086] Cut flowers roses without any type of postharvest treatment were wrapped by placing the cut flowers on a piece of Florasys Wrap comprising an outer layer of SFK and wrapping the Florasys Wrap and SFK around the cut flowers, followed by securing the overlapping edges of the wrapped Florasys Wrap and SFK to each other, respectively, prior to packaging. The following is a description of the packaging dimensions used relative to the flower head size:

[0087] • Sweetheart roses (250mm to 350mm) - Florasys Wrap 356mm x 90mm or 356mm x 180mm

[0088] • Medium roses (400mm to 500mm) - Florasys Wrap 520mm x 90mm or 520mm x 180mm

[0089] • Hybrid tea roses (500mm to 600mm) - Florasys Wrap 520mm x 180mm

[0090] Group 4) Post-Harvest Treatment and FloraSys Wrap

[0091] The cut roses subjected to post-harvest treatment as in Set 2 were then placed on a sheet of Florasys Wrap comprising an outer layer of SFK and the Florasys Wrap and SFK were wrapped around the cut flowers, and the overlapping edges of the wrapped Florasys Wrap and SFK were then secured to each other respectively prior to packaging. The following is a description of the packaging dimensions used relative to the flower head size:

[0092] • Sweetheart roses (250mm to 350mm) - Florasys Wrap 356mm x 90mm or 356mm x 180mm

[0093] • Medium roses (400mm to 500mm) - Florasys Wrap 520mm x 90mm or 520mm x 180mm

[0094] • Hybrid tea roses (500mm to 600mm) - Florasys Wrap 520mm x 180mm

[0095] The cut flower bunches were then dry packaged into floral cartons for transportation and storage in accordance with conventional commercial floral transportation methods. The temperature during the simulated transportation and storage was maintained at about 2°C to 5°C (about 85% to 90% RH). The duration of transportation and storage was 3 to 5 days. After the simulated transportation step, in the test laboratory, any SFK and Florasys Wrap around the cut roses was removed. The cut roses were then hydrated at about 22°C for about 24 hours by following the cut flower industry guidelines (www.florists.org) for hydrating cut flowers. The cut flowers were then evaluated for the following: https: / / www.chrysal.com / tips / why-should-you-cut-stems) Trim off approximately 2 cm of the base of each rose stem and soak the trimmed base of each stem in approximately 2 L of tap water containing Chrysal Clear Professional T-bag (https: / / www.chrysal.com / products / chrysal-professional-2-t-bags) solution in a 10 L bucket.

[0096] After the hydration step, the base of each flower stem was trimmed back by approximately 2 cm. Leaves below the waterline on each stem were removed (according to industry guidelines) and the stems were then placed in a container containing approximately 1 L of water and 1 bag. Flower nutrients( The vases were stored at a temperature of about 22° C. and about 70% to 90% RH for 7 days.

[0097] On day 7, the roses in the vases were evaluated by visual inspection for growth of Botrytis cinerea.

[0098] Results and Discussion

[0099] The results showed that Florasys wrap was effective in inhibiting the growth of Botrytis cinerea either alone or in combination with post-harvest treatments.

[0100] The results are Figure 2 All results are presented relative to the infection / rot levels observed with negative control roses.

[0101] Group 2) Post-harvest processing only

[0102] Set 3) Florasys Wrap only

[0103] Group 4) Post-harvest treatment and Florasys Wrap

[0104] The results showed that the inhibition of gray mold growth (as determined visually by signs of fungus-induced rot) was 50% or greater when Florasys Wrap was used alone or in combination with post-harvest chemical treatments compared to negative control roses.

[0105] Example 2

[0106] In comparative examples, bunches of ten Red One cut roses were wrapped according to the method of Example 1 above with either (i) two different Florasys Wrap prototypes ("FST 23" and "FSL 8") or (ii) a commercially produced SO2 sheet ("BLR 7") similar to that described in Clemes et al. (US 5,106,596 and US 7,045,182).

[0107] Results and Discussion

[0108] Table 1: Average rot inhibition by different Florasys Wrap prototypes tested on the Red One rose variety

[0109]

[0110] While the commercial SO2-producing tablet provided good rot inhibition, the product exhibited severe and commercially unacceptable levels of phytotoxicity to petals and / or leaves. In addition, the product was not recyclable. On the other hand, both Florasys Wrap prototype ("FST 23" and "FSL 8") products provided acceptable levels of rot inhibition without phytotoxicity to petals and / or leaves. These products were recyclable.

[0111] Example 3

[0112] In a further comparative example, cut rose flowers of a 10-stem rose bouquet were wrapped with SFK and then placed inside a Florasys Sleeve (i.e., a multi-layered laminated article producing sulfur dioxide (SO2) in the form of a flower sleeve according to the present application having a generally frustoconical shape that surrounds a cut flower bouquet contained in the SFK wrap) prototype ("FSL 13") according to the method of Example 1 above. The results were compared to a control bouquet that was wrapped with SFK only and inserted into a commercially available clear plastic flower sleeve without SO2-producing capability.

[0113] Results and Discussion

[0114] Table 2: Average rot inhibition by Florasys Sleeve prototypes tested on roses

[0115]

[0116] While the control did not exhibit rot inhibition as expected, the Florasys Sleeve prototypes provided commercially acceptable levels of rot inhibition without phytotoxicity to petals and / or leaves. The product was recyclable.

[0117] Example 4: Efficacy of Florasys Wrap Compared to Other SO2-Producing Systems

[0118] Introduction

[0119] Applicant has developed different types of SO2 generating sheets for use in specific crop types for preservation and prevention of fungal infection (including from Botrytis) and for use in specific environments. "Florasys Wrap" was developed specifically for use on cut roses and differs from other SO2 generating product offerings in terms of application (designed as an insert to be placed inside commercial SFK), raw material construction and efficacy.

[0120] Objectives

[0121] Applicant conducted the following trials in order to:

[0122] • compare the efficacy of Florasys Wrap in controlling rot on cut roses compared to other known SO2 product offerings; and

[0123] • demonstrate why Florasys Wrap is a unique application for flowers that is not achievable with known SO2 products on the market today.

[0124] Materials and Methods

[0125] Florasys Wrap is comprised of two polyolefin films of thickness from about 10 pm to about 40 pm laminated together with an internal adhesive layer comprising a solventless polyurethane adhesive composition at a concentration of from about 30% to about 50% (weight / weight) and sodium metabisulfite (SMBS) particles of diameter from about 20 pm to about 50 pm at a concentration of from about 50% to about 70% (weight / weight), the internal adhesive layer having a coat weight of from about 10 GSM to about 30 GSM.

[0126] Roses of the variety Red One were cut at a rose farm and processed by wrapping in commercial SFK. The roses were not subjected to post-harvest anti-fungal treatment. The processed roses were trucked overnight from Johannesburg to Cape Town and then made available to Applicant's laboratory in Cape Town for trial packaging, storage and vase life testing.

[0127] Upon arrival at Applicant's laboratory, the rose bunches were re-processed by removing the commercial SFK wrapping and re-applying SFK with each trial product being tested, namely:

[0128] • Florasys Wrap;

[0129] • Vivo 1 (7 layer sheet as described in Spanish Utility Model ES1256359U);

[0130] • Vivo 2 (5-ply as described in Spanish Utility Model ES1295049U);

[0131] • BLR 7 (3-ply as described in Spanish Utility Model ES1256359U);

[0132] • FEBS sleeves (as described in European Patent EP 3 139 737); and

[0133] • Uvasys (commercial standard as described in US 5,106,596 and US 7,045,182);

[0134] All products except FEBS sleeves are applied as inserts placed inside the commercial SFK. Due to its design and intended application, FEBS sleeves cannot be used in this way, but are applied as originally intended (i.e. as an insert applied to the upper half of the sleeve).

[0135] Control flowers are kept untouched. After applying the different SO2treatment systems, the bunches are packed into an outlet box and left for four days at 5°C. This is aimed at simulating the air freight storage and transport conditions from the warehouse to the consumer.

[0136] Relevant dates:

[0137] • Rose picking date: 5 / 6 August 2023

[0138] • Experimental packing date: 7 August 2023

[0139] • Hydration phase: 11-13 August 2023

[0140] • Vase life (day 0): 14 August 2023

[0141] • Vase life (day 4): 18 August 2023

[0142] • Vase life (day 7): 21 August 2023

[0143] Stem Life Evaluation:

[0144] After the cold storage and transport simulation, the rose bunches are taken out of the cold room and treated for the hydration phase, which simulates the hydration phase that occurs after storage.

[0145] The hydration phase consists of cutting 2 cm from the bottom of each stem and then placing the cut rose bunches in a bucket containing about 2 L of water and a T-bag (Chrysal) containing a hydration nutrient solution. The rose bunches are left in the hydration solution for two days before being transferred to vases.

[0146] The vase life phase included cutting 2 cm from the bottom of each stem. Prior to placing the stems in the vase, the leaves on the stems below the water line in the vase were removed (per industry guidelines). One bouquet (10 rose stems) was placed in each vase and each treatment had three replicates (vases). Each vase contained 1 L of water and 1 packet of Flora life flower food. The vases were placed in a normal laboratory with a humidifier at room temperature.

[0147] The roses were evaluated for development of gray mold and signs of SO2 injury during the vase life. The roses were evaluated on day 0, day 4, and day 7. At each evaluation date, the stems were carefully inspected and then placed back in the vase. Stems showing signs of SO2 injury and development of Botrytis were recorded.

[0148] Results and Discussion

[0149] The results of the trial show that the Florasys Wrap product outperformed all other SO2 generating products throughout the vase life period.

[0150] On day 0, Florasys Wrap was 100% effective in controlling rot relative to the control. During this time period, Vivo 1 and Uvasys were 50% effective in controlling rot relative to the control. All other products were not effective in controlling rot during storage and shipping.

[0151] The amount of rot developed during the vase life phase. On day 7, as shown in Table 3, Florasys Wrap was the only treatment that remained effective in reducing rot on the roses. After seven days in the vase, Florasys Wrap inhibited 75% of the progression of rot relative to the control. Figure 3 Table 3. Percent inhibition of rot recorded on Red One roses over the 7-day vase life period following storage and shipping with different SO2 generating products.

[0152]

[0153] * Not effective means the level of rot was higher than that recorded for the control

[0154] Another important parameter evaluated was the presence of any phytotoxicity to the flower head in the form of SO2 injury.

[0155] The level of SO2 injury recorded on the flowers for each product tested is shown. All products except Florasys Wrap showed SO2 injury on the rose petals. Figure 4

[0156] Conclusion ​

[0157] In this trial, Florasys Wrap outperformed all other SO2 generating products in both regards, decay control and SO2 injury. Flowers are a sensitive crop and the selling appeal is in their natural beauty.

[0158] The use of SO2 on flowers provides an alternative application of fungal reduction that does not involve the process of soaking or spraying solutions on flowers, a process that has its own disadvantages for the flower industry.

[0159] The challenges that need to be addressed in order to provide a commercially viable solution for the application of SO2 generating sheets on cut roses include product application, product material type and product efficacy.

[0160] The present application should be a quick and simple process that does not negatively impact the current packing regime. The material used to produce the SO2 generating sheets must be recyclable as the industry is moving towards environmentally friendly solutions. Importantly, the SO2 generating sheets also still need to be able to deliver an effective amount of SO2 gas that does not burn the flowers, but still produces decay control.

[0161] This trial demonstrates that the specific formulation of Florasys Wrap is able to perform according to the requirements set out above, while none of the other known and tested SO2 generating products were able to achieve the same results, even when applied in the same way.

[0162] The Applicant surprisingly determined that the key difference can be attributed to the fact that due to the lower SO2 emission profile of Florasys Wrap compared to the other tested SO2 generating products, Florasys Wrap is able to control decay better than the other trial products. As shown in Figure 5 Similar results were proven with other flower varieties after 7 days, to those determined in this trial.

[0163] Figure 6 and Figure 7 The comparison of the SO2 emission profiles between Florasys Wrap, Vivo 1, Vivo 2, BLR 7, FEBS sleeve and Uvasys sheets in flower containers over time, clearly shows that the SO2 emission profile of Florasys Wrap is much lower compared to the other tested articles.

Claims

1. A cut flower preservation and antifungal system for use during transport and / or storage of cut flowers in containers or boxes, and / or during display in barrels at retailers, the containers or boxes comprising cardboard, plastic, or metal containers or boxes, the cut flower preservation system comprising one or more sulfur dioxide (SO2)-generating multi-layer laminates, the one or more sulfur dioxide (SO2)-generating multi-layer laminates comprising or consisting of: (i) a first base material layer, wherein the first base material layer is any one selected from the group consisting of: paper, the paper including SFK, kraft paper or single-sided light bleached kraft (MGBK) paper; a polyolefin film, the polyolefin film including BOPP, LDPE or HDPE; or a polyester film comprising PET; (ii) a second base material layer, the second base material layer being any one selected from the group consisting of: paper, the paper including SFK, kraft paper or MGBK paper; Polyolefin film, wherein the polyolefin film comprises BOPP, LDPE or HDPE; or polyester film, The polyester film includes PET, wherein the first base material layer and the second base material layer are the same or different; and wherein the first paper layer has a thickness ranging from about 13 GSM (grams per square meter) to about 300 GSM, or any subranges included therein, the first polyolefin film layer has a thickness ranging from about 9 μm to about 150 μm, or from about 10 μm to about 50 μm, or any subranges included therein, and the first polyester film layer has a thickness ranging from about 3 μm to about 100 μm, or from about 10 μm to about 50 μm, or any subranges included therein; and wherein the second paper layer has a thickness ranging from about 13 GSM to about 300 GSM, or any subranges included therein, the second polyolefin film layer has a thickness ranging from 9 μm to about 150 μm, or from about 10 μm to about 50 μm, or any subranges included therein, and the first polyester film layer has a thickness ranging from about 3 μm to about 100 μm, or from about 10 μm to about 50 μm, or any subranges included therein; and (iii) an inner adhesive layer having a coating weight of from about 1 GSM to about 100 GSM, or any subrange subsumed therein, comprising an adhesive composition, comprising a polyurethane adhesive composition, further comprising a solvent-free polyurethane adhesive composition, Its concentration is from about 30 weight / weight % to about 90 weight / weight % (weight / weight) of the adhesive layer, or any subrange contained therein; and sodium metabisulfite (SMBS) microparticles at a concentration of about 10% to about 70% (weight / weight) or any subrange contained therein, the sodium metabisulfite (SMBS) microparticles having a diameter of about 1 μm to about 250 μm, or any subrange contained therein.

2. The cut flower preservation and antifungal system according to claim 1, further comprising a single-sided kraft paper (SFK) layer for protecting the flowers from mechanical damage.

3. The cut flower preservation and antifungal system according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the concentration of the solvent-free polyurethane adhesive composition is about 40% to about 80% (weight / weight), or about 50% to about 70% (weight / weight), and the concentration of sodium metabisulfite (SMBS) microparticles having a diameter of about 10 μm to about 70 μm, or about 20 μm to about 50 μm, is about 40% to about 80% (weight / weight), or about 50% to about 70% (weight / weight) of the adhesive composition.

4. The cut flower preservation and antifungal system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the paper is a paper coated on one or both surfaces with a coating selected from a WVTR (water vapor transmission rate) or OTR (oxygen transmission rate) control coating, or any one or more of a hydrophobic coating, a hydrophilic coating or a primer coating, or alternatively wherein the paper is an uncoated paper.

5. The cut flower preservation and antifungal system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the paper is paper coated on one or both surfaces with a polyolefin film including BOPP, LDPE or HDPE, or a polyester film including PET.

6. A cut flower preservation and antifungal system according to claim 4 or claim 5, wherein when the paper is coated on one surface, the inner adhesive layer is applied to the coated surface of the paper.

7. The cut flower preservation and antifungal system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein when two multi-layer laminated products generating sulfur dioxide (SO2) are used, the thickness of the first and second paper layers, polyolefin film or polyester film and / or the coating weight of the inner adhesive layer are different between the first product and the second product.

8. The cut flower preservation and antifungal system according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the one or more sulfur dioxide (SO2) generating multi-layer laminates are in the form of any one of the following: a sheet for operatively wrapping around the upper portion of about one-third to one-half of the cut bouquet and surrounding the flower head, or b. a flower sleeve having a generally frusto-conical shape for operatively enclosing a cut flower bouquet, or c. a bag for operative placement over one or more cut flower heads, or d. A cover for operatively sliding over the top opening of a shipping and / or storage container or box having cut flowers placed therein.

9. The cut flower preservation and antifungal system according to claim 8, wherein when wrapping the cut flowers, a first sulfur dioxide (SO2)-generating multi-layer laminate in the form of a sheet is placed on or attached to a surface of the SFK operatively oriented toward the cut flowers.

10. The cut flower preservation and antifungal system according to claim 8, for use with cut flowers wrapped in SFK, wherein the SFK-wrapped flowers are operably inserted into a first sulfur dioxide (SO2)-generating multi-layer laminate in the form of a flower cover or in the form of a bag.

11. The cut flower preservation and antifungal system according to claim 8, for use with cut flowers wrapped in a first sulfur dioxide (SO2)-producing multi-layer laminate in the form of a sheet or in the form of a flower cover, wherein the wrapped flowers are operably inserted into a second sulfur dioxide (SO2)-producing multi-layer laminate in the form of a flower cover or in the form of a bag.

12. The cut flower preservation and antifungal system according to claim 9 or claim 10, for use with SFK-wrapped flowers, wherein the SFK-wrapped flowers are operably inserted into a second sulfur dioxide (SO2)-generating multi-layer laminate in the form of a flower cover or in the form of a bag.

13. The cut flower preservation and antifungal system according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the cut flowers are summer flowers including roses, Alstroemeria sp., or Helianthus sp., including Helianthus annuus, more commonly known as sunflower.

14. The cut flower preservation and antifungal system according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the cut flower is a rose.

15. The cut flower preservation and antifungal system according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the fungus is Botrytis cinerea.

16. The cut flower preservation and antifungal system according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein one or both of the first base material layer and the second base material layer have microperforations, the diameter of the microperforations being about 0.05 mm to 2.8 mm, with a spacing of about 10 mm therebetween, the microperforations being in the form of lines with a spacing of about 5 mm therebetween, and each perforation in a line being offset by about 5 mm from the lines above and below.

17. A method for producing a multi-layer laminated article producing sulfur dioxide (SO2) for use with the cut flower preservation and antifungal system of the present invention according to any one of claims 1 to 16, the method comprising: I. Providing a first base material layer, wherein the first base material layer is selected from any one of the following groups: paper, the paper including SFK, kraft paper or single-sided light bleached kraft paper (MGBK) paper; a polyolefin film, the polyolefin film selected from BOPP, LDPE or HDPE; or a polyester film, the polyester film including PET; II. applying an adhesive layer on the first substrate material layer using a laminator or coater, the adhesive layer having a coating weight of about 1 GSM to about 100 GSM, or about 10 GSM to about 30 GSM, or any subranges included therein, wherein the adhesive layer comprises or consists of an adhesive composition comprising a polyurethane adhesive composition, further comprising a solvent-free polyurethane adhesive composition at a concentration of about 30% to about 90% (weight / weight) or about 40% to about 80% (weight / weight) by weight of the adhesive composition. wt.), or about 50% to about 70% (wt. / wt.), or any subranges included therebetween; and sodium metabisulfite (SMBS) microparticles having a concentration of about 10% to about 70% (wt. / wt.), or about 40% to about 80% (wt. / wt.), or about 50% to about 70% (wt. / wt.), or any subranges included therebetween, having a diameter of about 1 μm to about 250 μm, or about 10 μm to about 70 μm, or about 20 μm to about 50 μm, or any subranges included therebetween, and III. laminating a second base material layer on the adhesive layer using a laminator so that the adhesive layer is sandwiched between the first base material layer and the second base material layer, wherein the second base material layer is any one selected from the group consisting of: paper, the paper including SFK, kraft paper or single-sided light bleached kraft paper (MGBK) paper; a polyolefin film including BOPP, LDPE or HDPE; or a polyester film including PET, wherein the first base material layer and the second base material layer have the same material and thickness, or are different; and wherein the first paper layer has a thickness ranging from about 13 GSM (grams per square meter) to about 300 GSM, or any subranges included therein, the first polyolefin film layer has a thickness ranging from about 9 μm to about 150 μm, or from about 10 μm to about 50 μm, or any subranges included therein, and the first polyester film layer has a thickness ranging from about 3 μm to about 100 μm, or from about 10 μm to about 50 μm, or any subranges included therein; and wherein the second paper layer has a thickness range of about 13 GSM to about 300 GSM, or any subranges included therebetween, the second polyolefin film layer has a thickness range of about 9 μm to about 150 μm, or about 10 μm to about 50 μm, or any subranges included therebetween, and the first polyester film layer has a thickness range of about 3 μm to about 100 μm, or about 10 μm to about 50 μm, or any subranges included therebetween.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein microperforating one or both of the first and second base material layers comprises microperforating by hot needle perforation such that the perforations are approximately 0.05 mm to 2.8 mm in diameter, spaced approximately 10 mm apart, and are in the form of lines spaced approximately 5 mm apart, each perforation in a line being offset by approximately 5 mm from the lines above and below.

19. The method according to claim 17 or claim 18, further comprising the step of cutting the sulphur dioxide (SO2) producing multi-layer laminate into desired sizes for use with the cut flower preservation and antifungal system according to any one of claims 1 to 16.

20. A method of preserving cut flowers and inhibiting the growth of fungal pathogens thereon using the cut flower preservation and antifungal system according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the cut flowers are contained in containers or boxes during transportation and / or storage and / or in buckets during display at retailers.

21. The method of claim 20, wherein the fungal pathogen is Botrytis cinerea.

22. The method of claim 20 or 21, wherein the cut flowers are summer flowers including roses, Alstroemeria sp., or Helianthus sp., including Helianthus annuus, more commonly known as sunflower.

23. The method according to any one of claims 20 to 22, wherein the method comprises the following steps: (A) providing a first sheet of one or more sulfur dioxide (SO2) generating multilayer laminates according to any one of claims 1 to 16; (B) placing a plurality of cut flowers to be transported and / or stored on the sheet; (C) wrapping the sheet around the cut flower; and (D) Optionally securing the edges of the wrapped sheets to each other and / or placing the wrapped cut flowers into said container or box for shipping and / or storage.

24. The method of claim 23, wherein the method further comprises the step of inserting the wrapped cut flowers of step (C) into a second sulfur dioxide (SO2)-generating multi-layer laminate in the form of a flower sleeve having a generally truncated cone shape surrounding the wrapped cut flowers.

25. The method according to any one of claims 20 to 22, wherein the method comprises the following steps: I. Provide multiple branches of cut flowers; II. Providing a multilayer laminate according to any one of claims 1 to 16 to produce sulfur dioxide (SO2) in the form of a flower sleeve, the flower sleeve having a generally truncated cone shape; III. Inserting the plurality of cut flowers into the flower cover, or wrapping the flower cover around the cut flowers, so that the roughly truncated cone-shaped flower cover surrounds the cut flowers.

26. The method according to claim 25, wherein the method further comprises wrapping an SFK directly around the cut flower, or wherein the cut flower surrounded by the flower sleeve is placed on the SFK and the SKF is wrapped around the flower contained in the flower sleeve for protecting the flower from mechanical damage.

27. The method of claim 23 or 24, wherein the sheet size of the sulfur dioxide (SO2) producing multi-layer laminate is about 356 mm x 90 mm or about 356 mm x 180 mm for up to 10 cut flowers including sweetheart roses having a flower head size of about 250 mm to 350 mm circumference.

28. The method of claim 23 or 24, wherein the sheet size of the sulfur dioxide (SO2) producing multi-layer laminate is about 520 mm x 90 mm or about 520 mm x 180 mm for up to 10 cut flowers including medium roses and hybrid tea roses having flower heads of about 400 mm to 600 mm in size.

29. A cut flower preservation and antifungal system according to claim 1, substantially as herein described with reference to any one of the illustrative examples.

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