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.
Source: USDA
Image: USDA
09 Jan 2026
Rising volumes and logistical pressure make postharvest management the key driver of Chilean cherry profitability. Anticipation, DPV control, humidification, hydrocooling and contingency planning define a new operational standard to protect fruit quality, size and value.
27 Feb 2025
With increasing demands for longer shelf life, parameters such as firmness, colour and dehydration of the stalk are crucial for product acceptance in international markets.
15 Jun 2026
In Vignola, the experimental orchard was named after Andrea Bernardi, former Consortium president and a key figure for Vignola Cherry PGI. The tribute highlights his work for innovation, research and dialogue among producers, institutions and the local fruit supply chain.
15 Jun 2026
A nationwide U.S. spring frost has cut Michigan’s tart cherry crop to a fraction of normal output, with inventories near record lows. Processors warn that soaring prices, scarce supply and imports could reshape the U.S. market and threaten long-term customer loyalty in 2026.
