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Science of freshness: Key environmental controls for optimal fruit preservation
From storage to ripening, effective control of temperature, humidity, and gases like ethylene and CO₂ is key to maintaining post-harvest fruit quality. Learn how Felix Instruments' advanced monitoring solutions support optimal ripening and storage environments.
Environmental factors are essential in maintaining fruit quality and shelf-life post-harvest. Storage facilities hold fruit before distribution, while ripening rooms are dedicated to maturing unripe produce. Both aim to control conditions like temperature, humidity, ethylene, CO₂, and O₂, which vary based on fruit type and purpose.
Key Processes:
Respiration: Fruits break down sugars, producing heat, water, and CO₂. Low temperatures and controlled CO₂/O₂ levels help slow this process, extending shelf-life.
Transpiration: Fruits lose moisture to their environment, which can lead to shrinkage and spoilage. High humidity is maintained to retain moisture and prevent weight loss.
Ripening: Ethylene, a natural plant hormone, triggers ripening in climacteric fruits, while non-climacteric fruits may deteriorate in its presence. Ethylene levels are carefully managed to either stimulate or suppress ripening.
Monitoring & Management: Constant monitoring and control of these conditions are crucial to avoid spoilage. Ideal systems integrate seamlessly into storage or ripening facilities. For example, Felix Instruments offers programmable systems (F-901R AccuRipe and F-901D10 AccuRipe) that manage ethylene, temperature, humidity, CO₂, and O₂ remotely. These systems support consistent quality through automated "recipes," making them efficient solutions for fruit producers seeking reliable ripening and storage management.
Felix Instruments designs and manufactures portable, precise measurement tools for the agricultural industry. Their products include gas analyzers and near-infrared spectroscopy devices that assess fruit quality indicators such as dry matter, Brix, and internal color, aiding growers and post-harvest operations in quality control and decision-making.
Curious about Felix Instruments? Connect with us for a live demonstration via support5@fructidor.com
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