Flair S1™ helps exporters stay competitive while navigating new logistics and tariff challenges

Fresh Formulaics is a company specializing in plant-based postharvest solutions designed to enhance the quality, appearance, and shelf life of fruits and vegetables during export. In a global landscape shaped by shifting tariffs and increasingly demanding logistics chains, their products—such as Flair S1™ and Extend EX1—are helping exporters adapt quickly and efficiently.

At Poscosecha.com, we spoke with Denise Junqueiro, Global Vice President of Marketing at Fresh Formulaics, to learn how the company is addressing the challenges of international trade and what innovations lie ahead.

Claudia Conesa (Poscosecha.com): How have recent U.S. tariff changes impacted the export strategies of your clients in Latin America?

Denise Junqueiro: The 10% tariff has added financial pressure, and we’re seeing many exporters adjust their strategy on the fly. Some are diversifying their export shipments to new regions or increasing volumes to certain markets, while others are laser-focused on minimizing the impact to their margins. What’s been consistent is the need for tools that help them adapt quickly, especially when their go-to markets suddenly become more costly or unpredictable.

CC: Can you explain how Flair S1™ helps reduce shrinkage and improve the quality of exported produce amid current market pressures?

DJ: Flair S1™ was designed to help suppliers hold onto more of what they ship in terms of quality and appearance. It extends shelf life, helps maintain visual quality such as shine, and reduces the kinds of losses that typically happen in transit, particularly on longer routes. In commercial-scale trials, we’ve seen 10–15% more fruit arrive in marketable condition compared to untreated lots. That difference is fruit that otherwise might have been downgraded or rejected.

CC: What makes plant-based post-harvest solutions more effective or Sustainable compared to traditional waxes or coatings?

DJ: Traditional coatings often rely on synthetic materials, harsh solvents, or animal-based ingredients. In contrast, our plant-based formulations are food-safe, vegan, and designed to align with today’s regulatory and sustainability expectations. They’re made from ingredients that are already part of what we eat, and they support safe workplaces and better alignment with environmental goals in both established and emerging markets.

CC: You mentioned that Flair S1™ can help more fruit reach the market — which specific types of fruit or vegetables benefit the most from your treatments?

DJ: Right now, we’re focused on categories where appearance and firmness really drive value, like Flair S1’s ability to offer shine for citrus and our other product, Extend EX1’s ability to extend the shelf life of avocados. It makes the biggest difference when the product is traveling long distances or spending more time in cold storage. That’s where even small gains in freshness can turn into meaningful value for suppliers and retailers.

CC: Could you share any success stories or measurable outcomes from suppliers currently using Fresh Formulaics products in high-tariff environments?

DJ: One consistent result we’re seeing is a measurable increase, often 10-15 percent, in the amount of fruit that arrives in marketable condition. That’s been especially important for exporters sending fruit to new or longer-distance markets due to tariff-related shifts. They tell us Flair S1™ has helped them stay competitive and reliable while navigating new logistics challenges. We’re continuing to track outcomes and will share more case studies in the months ahead.

CC: How does your drop-ship model work, and what advantages does it offer during times of supply chain uncertainty?

DJ: Our drop-ship model is designed for speed and flexibility. We ship product directly to the customer’s facility or region when they need it, which helps avoid overstocking or supply gaps. Especially during periods of uncertainty, when exporters might be testing new routes or scaling up quickly, having a just-in-time model keeps things nimble. It’s one less logistics hurdle for suppliers already juggling a lot.

CC: What innovations or new products can we expect next from Fresh Formulaics to further support global exporters?

DJ: We’re continuing to expand our portfolio into new crop categories and functionality areas. Right now, that includes treatments focused on decay control and visual enhancement for more commodities. Our goal is to give suppliers a full toolkit of plant-based solutions that help them meet the growing challenges of global distribution, such as longer transit times, stricter cosmetic standards, and rising sustainability expectations.