Spotted Wing Drosophila, a well-known pest that infests ripe, ready-to-eat fruit, poses a significant threat to farmers because it is very difficult to control with standard pesticides. A new approach to tackling this pest involves manipulating the behavior of these insects by disguising healthy fruit as if it were infected with an unappealing pathogen.
By studying the specific odors emitted by infected fruit, researchers have identified the chemicals that repel the flies when applied to healthy fruit and are developing a slow-release device to disperse these fruity odors in the field, ensuring that they do not come into direct contact with the fruit. This method provides a new tool to help farmers protect their crops without relying exclusively on insecticides.
Chilean cherry imports in Argentina hit 1,273 tons, setting a new record. Amid Chilean oversupply and steady premium demand, the market absorbs higher volumes without price collapse, raising questions about future balance and competition in the sector.
Pretreatments (such as ultrasound) and edible coatings are used to reduce processing time and/or preserve the quality of food products. Experimental data of drying curves were adapted to various widely used models.
Etna PDO Cherry and the prized Mastrantonio variety enjoy a strong 2026 season, with high quality, firm fruit and harvests extending to late July. Higher-altitude orchards create new market opportunities, while growers face suzukii fruit fly, irrigation and grower unity.
Washington State’s 2026 cherry harvest begins with a smaller crop, good fruit quality, encouraging yields and favorable prices. Mark Grassel examines harvest timing, nighttime picking, climatic risks, labor needs and the challenges shaping a promising season to date.