Global quality in post-harvest cherries: optimizing results by parameter, variety, and distance to target markets

18 Dec 2024
362

The incidence and progression of physiological disorders that may develop during prolonged storage is a topic that requires maximum attention. Determining optimal storage conditions for each cherry variety is of great importance for the industry and producers. This knowledge not only provides valuable information to improve post-harvest management practices but is also fundamental to maintaining and enhancing the competitiveness of the Chilean cherry industry in demanding international markets.


The export of Chilean cherries to China, a key market that received over 410 thousand tons in the 2023-2024 season. In economic terms, the industry generated over $2.2 billion in the last season, consolidating itself as an important pillar of the Chilean agricultural sector. However, cherry exports face significant logistical challenges due to the distance of over 20,000 km and the long maritime transit times, exceeding the 20 days required to reach the Asian market.

Under these conditions, prolonged storage presents significant risks to fruit quality. Parameters such as firmness, moisture retention, and weight could be affected, compromising product acceptance. Additionally, physiological disorders that develop during storage, such as pitting (surface indentations), browning, dehydration of the pedicel, and “lizard skin” (rough texture), are the main causes of rejection in international markets.

Want to read the full article? Sign up for our free Cherry Times newsletter! This is the only way to receive each new article directly in your inbox and stay updated with high-quality advice and analysis. Don't miss this unique opportunity!


Sign up for the Cherry Times newsletter for free!



Cherry Times - All rights reserved

What to read next

CherryTech 2024: how technology and innovation are transforming post-harvest

Events

02 Jul 2024

Nicolás Zamorano, consultant for Asian markets, commented that in China, consumers 'were mainly trained on cherry varieties. Today the business is no longer global, but increasingly specific, along with the requirements customers have for each variety'.

GP Graders' AI to support cherry production in Chile

Post-harvest​

12 Dec 2024

With Chile leading the world in cherry exports, especially to markets such as China, GP Graders' innovations are proving to be a key element in maintaining the country's competitiveness. The incorporation of AI improves product quality and system efficiency.

In evidenza

Artificial intelligence improves cherry sorting: more quality and less waste

Post-harvest​

31 Mar 2025

Artificial intelligence is revolutionising cherry sorting, ensuring greater precision, reduced waste and higher quality. Find out how advanced technologies such as deep learning optimise packaging and improve productivity in the fruit and vegetable sector.

Successful Australian workshops on vigour management in the cherry tree

Press review

31 Mar 2025

Find out the results of workshops on cherry vigour management in Australia, with updates from Tasmania, Victoria, South Australia and NSW. International experts and innovations to optimise cultivation. Read more about winning techniques and strategies.

Tag Popolari