Everything you need to know about non-destructive fruit quality measurement: BIG Interview with Jay Hwang, Sunforest 

Sunforest, one of the pioneering companies in agricultural technology, is transforming how farmers and distributors assess fruit quality. With their non-destructive near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy devices, Sunforest simplifies the traditionally labor-intensive process of measuring factors like dry matter in avocados and other crops. These tools offer fast, accurate, and reliable results, making them invaluable for modern agricultural practices. In an interview with Fructidor, Jay Hwang, General Director of Sunforest, delves into their technology, its applications, and its growing impact across global markets.  

Fructidor: Jay, what is the difference between Sunforest’s device and the standard way of measuring dry matter in fruits? 

Jay Hwang: Traditional methods, like oven drying, are quite labor-intensive and time-consuming. You need a hydration machine, and it takes a full day to get results. Plus, it requires skill, which not every grower has. With our device, it’s a different story. It’s non-destructive, easy to use, and provides immediate results. This convenience is a big advantage for growers. 

Fructidor: You’ve created a calibration model specifically for Latin American avocados? 

Jay Hwang: Yes, we collected a lot of data from regions like Colombia and Peru to create a reliable calibration model. The NIR instrument is a predictive device. Compared to destructive methods, our device provides excellent performance, and we can prove its reliability. 

Fructidor: Are you planning to showcase this at upcoming events like Fruit Logistica in Berlin? 

Jay Hwang: Yes, we’ll be there. At the previous Fruit Logistica show, a co-operator from New Zealand, who integrates GPS apps with our devices, demonstrated how our technology works and how it can be integrated into broader systems for enhanced efficiency. This year, we’ll present similar integrations with our partners as co-exhibitors. 

Fructidor: Are your devices suitable for wholesalers and distributors, or are they mainly for growers? 

Jay Hwang: While they’re primarily designed for growers to measure directly on trees, they’re also useful for distributors who need quality control on arrival. We’ve built a robust database and calibration models so users don’t need to do their own validation tests. This makes the devices ready-to-use, which is crucial for both growers and distributors. 

Fructidor: How often do users need to calibrate the device? 

Jay Hwang: Calibration isn’t necessary on the user side. We handle all the calibration and database updates to ensure the device works seamlessly in the field. 

Fructidor: You also mentioned a tomato instrument. Can you elaborate? 

Jay Hwang: Yes, we’ve created a calibration model for tomatoes in collaboration with companies like BASF and Enza Zaden in the Netherlands. Growers use it to measure Brix levels in the field, and they’re very satisfied with its performance. 

Fructidor: What are the main advantages for tomatoes? 

Jay Hwang: Beyond being non-destructive, our devices offer data management tools. Users can monitor data throughout the growing season and post-harvest, giving them a complete overview of crop performance. 

Fructidor: Can a single device handle multiple fruit models? 

Jay Hwang: Absolutely. Up to 10 different fruit models can be loaded onto one device. With our smartphone app, users can manage even over 10 models on a single device. In the same way, we have developed adapters for various fruit sizes. This flexibility ensures that our devices can cater to a wide range of crops and user needs, making them an indispensable tool for modern agriculture. 

Ready to revolutionize your approach to fruit quality assessment? Contact us today and discover how Sunforest's non-destructive NIR spectroscopy devices can save you time, boost accuracy, and simplify quality control.