Algorithms capable of predicting the remaining shelf life of various mango and stone fruit varieties have been developed and industry partners are now being sought to take the algorithms to market.
The algorithms are poised to transform how growers, packers, and supply chain partners monitor and manage product freshness throughout the supply chain.
This will thereby reduce food waste and optimise operational efficiencies.
These algorithms have been created collaboratively by scientists from the Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF) and Agriculture Victoria in the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA), in collaboration with Hort Innovation Australia Ltd.
Tailored to specific fruit varieties, these algorithms are grounded in rigorous scientific methodology.
They leverage extensive laboratory research and empirical data on fruit shelf-life responses under various supply chain conditions.
The technology seamlessly integrates harvest quality data plus supply chain temperature and time data with variety-specific prediction algorithms.
This facilitates informed stock management and supports a ‘first-expired, first-out’ marketing approach for more predictable fruit quality.
Queensland Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Minister for Regional Communities, Mark Furner said the technology will allow “the best mangoes in the world” to be even more fresh.
“Fruit lovers want to know that the fruit they’re putting in their shopping basket is the freshest available and we now have the technology we need to achieve this.
“We’re now seeking industry partners who can bring this new technology to market to ensure Queensland mango and stone fruit lovers get the freshest fruit there is.
“This home-grown technology is a testament to the skill and innovation of Queensland’s Department of Agriculture and Fisheries,” said Furner.
An expression of interest process is now open to identify industry partners with expertise help to take the algorithms to market.
The expression of interest is open until 14 June 2024.