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2023 Events to Watch Out for in Agriculture, Horticulture, and Plant Science

The following is a refined list of agriculture events covering topics and themes related to producing and supplying fresh and processed food, fiber, medicines, and cosmetics. It is also suitable for individuals from industries that create machinery, analytical and measuring equipment, packaging, storage, and logistics solutions. We aim to present you with a valuable resource… Continue reading…

NIR Data With Fruit Identity

Exploring the Advantages of NIR Spectroscopy in Agriculture: A Comprehensive Infographic

In the agriculture industry, the ability to accurately analyze the chemical composition of crops and soil is crucial for optimizing growth and yield. One powerful and efficient method for achieving this is Near Infrared Spectroscopy (NIRS). NIR spectroscopy is a non-destructive technique that allows for quick and accurate measurement of various properties in plants and… Continue reading…

Improving Mango Quality

Significant variations exist in the mango quality and yield from various regions worldwide. Integrating objective quality control and monitoring based on internal physiological parameters can help growers and suppliers maintain mango quality and their income in the supply chain. A systemic and coordinated approach is necessary to improve mango quality, as preharvest practices significantly impact… Continue reading…

Preserving Freshness: A Conversation on Innovations and Challenges in the Fresh-Cut Produce and Leafy Green Industries

In today’s world, food waste and the preservation of fresh produce have become increasingly important. The conversation between Eric, the Director of QFresh Lab, and Galen, the Director of Applied Science at Felix Instruments, delves into the challenges and innovations in the fresh-cut produce and leafy green industries. They discuss the impact of microbial growth… Continue reading…

Improving Kiwifruit Quality 

Dry matter (DM) and postharvest management will determine the final kiwifruit quality, so precisely estimating DM at harvest is essential.   The main aim of postharvest handling is to reduce fruit softening due to ripening, as the fruit is delicate.  Research in postharvest handling and processing suitable for local conditions is in varying stages of readiness… Continue reading…

Precision Techniques can make Horticulture Sustainable

Precision horticulture can increase yields with fewer inputs.  These techniques optimize growing conditions by improving decision-making based on analyzed data to maximize fresh produce quality and yield.  Monitoring quality in all stages is crucial for horticulture crops.  Precision horticulture techniques are suitable for outdoor and indoor farms.  Precision horticulture is becoming attractive as it reduces… Continue reading…

Methods of Active Packaging

How we buy and consume food has undergone enormous changes in the last decades. Consumers demand food that is minimally processed, has no chemical additives, and are nutritious and of high quality. In addition, there are stringent national and international controls on food to protect consumers’ health. Also, retailing and distribution have changed, making older… Continue reading…

Cantaloupe melons growing in a greenhouse

Melon Fruit: Quality, Production & Physiology

Making Sense of the Magical, Mystical Melon   Melons have been around for many millennia, and there are several varieties, both landraces, and new hybrids worldwide. Climacteric and non-climacteric ripening is seen in the various melon varieties. External inspection of sensory attributes like rind color or flavor development is not objective to decide ripeness or… Continue reading…

apple orchard on a sunny day

Ethylene Measurement & Rootstock Influence in Apple

How Rootstocks Influence Apple Fruit Quality and Yield   Besides influencing tree growth and yield of scion cultivars, rootstocks also affect fruit maturity in apples. The experiment found a climacteric pattern, where ethylene production, respiration rates, and oxygen consumption peaked after 5–7 days in fruits produced from all rootstocks. The 17 rootstocks have significant differences… Continue reading…

NIR device scanning an apple in a lab.

Advancing apple quality assessment with the Felix Produce Quality Meter

 Developing an accurate predictive apple quality model is no easy task, but Bart Nicolai and his research team at KU Leuven are cracking the code using the F-750 Produce Quality Meter. In over 20 years of research employing near-infrared technology, Mr. Nicolai has used or profiled nearly every NIR tool on the market. His…