Game changer for mango orchard management and quality improvement

Scientists used near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy, a non-invasive method, to explore how different orchard management strategies — like adjusting nitrogen, thinning fruit, and girdling — alongside varied irrigation levels, impact the build-up of dry matter (DM) in mangoes.

The best approach to boost DM was a careful blend of water reduction and fruit thinning. For instance, reducing water for two weeks before harvest raised DM levels from 16.5% to 17.6% and increased the sweetness, with BRIX levels rising from 13.3° to 14.3°. Importantly, this short drought period didn’t shrink the fruit or reduce its shelf life, which often happens with longer water shortages.

This study also confirmed that NIR spectroscopy is a practical tool, giving farmers a reliable way to gauge the effects of different practices and make informed decisions to improve mango quality and orchard management. (Read the full study here)

Felix Instruments – Applied Food Science is one of the leaders in developing portable measurement tools that utilize near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy to assess the quality of fresh produce. Their devices enable growers and packers to evaluate key parameters such as dry matter, sugar content, and firmness without damaging the fruit. This non-destructive technology helps optimize harvesting, storage, and shipping processes, ensuring that fruits like mangoes maintain their quality throughout the supply chain.

Discover precision with Felix Instruments – get your free consultation today. Send an email to support5@fructidor.com for more information.