Adding value to local production in Mauritius: PROXIFRESH strengthens the modernisation of its fresh-cut operations

As part of the Fit For Market Plus programme, COLEAD supported PROXIFRESH, a Mauritius-based company, in its efforts to modernise its fruit and vegetable cutting operations. Already well established on the local market and HACCP certified, PROXIFRESH aims to improve its productivity and the quality of its products in order to meet the growing demand from the hospitality, food service and retail sectors.

The mission sought to support the gradual industrialisation of the activity through a comprehensive assessment of equipment, cutting methods and hygiene practices, combined with the strengthening of internal capacities through staff training.

An in-depth on-site assessment was carried out, covering facilities, workflow organisation, working practices, equipment, and compliance with hygiene and food safety standards. This analysis made it possible to identify the company’s strengths and weaknesses, as well as opportunities for development. On this basis, a detailed short-, medium- and long-term action plan was developed, including practical recommendations to improve productivity, organisation and quality management.

In parallel, team leaders benefited from hands-on training on good hygiene practices, cold chain management, traceability and product quality, complemented by on-site coaching on the selection of appropriate equipment and the structuring of the quality management system.

The objectives set were achieved. The recommended approach favours a progressive upgrading of equipment, aligned with current production volumes and PROXIFRESH’s actual needs. The next steps will focus on the gradual implementation of the action plan, continued remote coaching, and support for PROXIFRESH in preparing for potential future certifications such as ISO 22000 or FSSC 22000.

This activity is supported by the Fit For Market Plus (FFM+) programme, implemented by COLEAD within the Framework of Development Cooperation between the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS) and the European Union. This publication receives financial support from the European Union and the OACPS. The content of this publication is the sole responsibility of COLEAD and can in no way be taken to reflect the views of the European Union or the OACPS.