Understanding the Journey of Papaya  

To ensure we continue to deliver the best fruit and veg from around the globe, our team regularly meets with growers to observe the different stages of cultivation, from young seedlings to fully mature fruit. By working closely with our supply chain partners, we gain invaluable insight into the agricultural challenges they face, including climate change, disease management, and logistical constraints.

During the visit, Sarah and Kimren had the chance to witness papaya production at different growth stages, from just two days old to seven years old. The region’s diverse farming landscape also provided an opportunity for them to learn more about other crops cultivated alongside papayas, including coffee and citrus.

At the packhouses, the team observed the sorting and packing processes used in papaya production, including the use of advanced optical grading technology. Such innovations are crucial for maintaining our consistency, quality, and efficiency, helping ensure that only the best produce makes its way to international markets.

Overcoming Challenges in Papaya Production

Like many fresh produce growers around the world, papaya farmers in Brazil face significant challenges, including the mozaico virus, which can affect yields and require careful disease management. Visiting farms and seeing these challenges first-hand allows us to better support growers in implementing sustainable and effective solutions that protect both the crops and the surrounding environment.

With sustainability playing an increasing role in global agriculture, the visit also provided a platform to discuss ethical and environmental initiatives, including educational programmes that introduce younger generations to farming and responsible agricultural practices.

Navigating the Complexities of Air Freight

Fresh produce supply chains don’t stop at the farm—logistics play a vital role in ensuring fruit arrives in perfect condition. To gain further insights into this process, Sarah and Kimren travelled to Viracopas Airport in Campinas, São Paulo, where they met with one of our key air freight partners.

Air freight is an essential part of delivering high-value fresh produce efficiently, but it comes with its own set of challenges, including cold chain management, security procedures, and potential delays. During their visit, the team followed the entire handling process, from cargo offloading and storage to security checks and loading onto aircraft. This hands-on experience highlighted areas where collaboration and optimisation can help improve efficiency and maintain product integrity throughout transit.

Commitment to Long-Term Partnerships

This visit to Brazil provided invaluable real-time insights into the realities of papaya production, reinforcing the importance of working closely with our growers to continue to refine and improve our sourcing practices. At MWW, we remain committed to delivering the best, safest, and most ethically sourced fresh produce for our buyers—our hands-on approach ensures we continue to stay at the forefront of the fresh produce industry.