Food science articles
How Does Bruise Susceptibility in Fresh Produce Impact Quality and Harvest Timing?
Bruise susceptibility varies based on the species, cultivar, and physical and physiological properties of fresh produce. The critical bruising threshold estimates the bruise susceptibility of fruits at different firmness. A critical bruising threshold has been used to develop a harvest maturity index that identifies the minimum firmness (or maximum maturity) for harvesting stone fruits. Bruising… Continue reading…
What Is the Best Plum Harvest Maturity Index?
Taste or sugar/acidity ratio is the plums’ most reliable harvest maturity index. A new plum harvest maturity indicator has been developed that combines firmness at maximum maturity with sugar content. No single quality parameter can be used alone as a harvest maturity index for plums. Plum Characteristics Plums, which are classified as climacteric fruits, have… Continue reading…
What Causes Postharvest Senescence in Fresh Produce
Senescence is one of the top two postharvest processes that cause food loss of fresh produce by curtailing shelf life. Ethylene production, programmed cell death, and cellular energy supply are significant processes associated with senescence in postharvest fresh produce. The mechanisms by which the three processes cause senescence are not entirely understood. Premature senescence and… Continue reading…
What Is the Avocado Harvest Maturity Index and How Is It Measured?
Physical and chemical parameters and crop chronology are avocado harvest maturity indices. Physical quality parameters, especially appearance, are commonly used worldwide. Dry matter content measured by near-infrared spectroscopy-based devices has become the industry standard maturity index. Sugar content is not a reliable avocado harvest maturity index. Avocado fruits go through four stages of maturity and… Continue reading…
How to Determine the Right Avocado Harvest Maturity Index for Optimal Quality
Physical and chemical parameters and crop chronology are used as harvest maturity indices for avocados. Physical quality parameters, especially appearance, are commonly used worldwide. Dry matter content measured by near-infrared spectroscopy-based devices has become the industry standard maturity index. Sugar content is not a reliable avocado harvest maturity index. Avocado fruits go through four stages… Continue reading…
Five Significant Research Findings on Fruit Quality Management in 2024
Fruit quality studies in 2024 aim to future-proof food production against the vagaries of climate change and to meet increasing demand. As in previous years, the focus remains on eradicating chemicals to improve food and environment safety. Research on AI-based models and tools is a standard theme, but it is diversifying to produce cost-effective versions… Continue reading…
How Real-Time 1-MCP Measurement is Revolutionizing Post-Harvest Freshness
When it comes to extending the shelf life of fresh produce, the industry has long relied on 1-MCP (1-Methylcyclopropene) to slow down ripening and keep fruits fresher for longer. But up until now, one major challenge has remained: measuring 1-MCP accurately and in real-time. Felix Instruments is changing that with the launch of the 1-MCP… Continue reading…
Felix Instruments Unveils the F-751 Grape Quality Meter – Available February 18, 2025
Felix Instruments is set to transform grape quality management with the release of the F-751 Grape Quality Meter, launching on February 18. This cutting-edge device provides non-destructive, instantaneous measurements of key grape quality indicators, helping growers, distributors, and researchers make informed decisions more precisely. A Smarter Way to Measure Grape Quality Traditional grape testing methods… Continue reading…
Harvest Index vs Harvest Maturity Index: What’s the Difference and Why It Matters
The harvest index and harvest maturity index maximize yield and quality but involve different purposes, measurement methods, stakeholders, timing, and target crops. The harvest index is used during the research and cultivar development stage to measure plant function efficiency and estimates the carbon allotted to make harvestable products. The harvest maturity index estimates the best… Continue reading…
What Is the Best Packaging for Fresh Produce? A Guide to Types and Benefits
Various packaging and materials exist for transporting, storing, protecting, and displaying fresh produce. Different packaging is suitable for specific fresh produce. Modified Atmosphere Packaging that alters the inside atmosphere is most successful in maintaining quality and freshness and extending shelf life. A well-researched material choice and specific gas mixture are necessary for efficient MAP packaging… Continue reading…
