Quality assessment using ultrasound

 

 

Amos Mizrach

The Institute of Agricultural Engineering, ARO, The Volcani Center, Bet Dagan, Israel

 

 

 

Abstract

Purpose of review: This review summarises the last two decades of studies, adaptation, modification and innovation of ultrasound technology and devices for determination of material properties of fresh fruit and vegetable tissues in postharvest applications. The review includes descriptions of used, adapted and modified ultrasonic systems and several methods of measurement, equipment, procedures for data processing; and correlation between the measurements of ultrasound parameters with quality indices of fruits and vegetables in the course of the various processes.

Findings: Ultrasound technology provides one of the foundations for a nondestructive, fast and reliable technique for correlating specific quality-related indices and the characteristics of fruits and vegetables with the stages of development during growth and maturation, and during storage and shelf-life, until they are ready for consumption.

Directions for future research: Much progress has been made in these fields during recent years. However, the technology is not yet commercially available for field or laboratory use as more study is still needed. Thus, continuous development of equipment and techniques will ensure increasing implementation and uptake of this technology to meet the expanding requirements of the fresh and processed agricultural products industry.

 

Keywords: fruits; vegetables; postharvest; shelf-life; firmness; nondestructive; attenuation

 

Stewart Postharvest Review 2008, 5:4

Published online 01 October 2008

doi: 10.2212/spr.2008.5.4