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
17 Jul 2024
Since the 1990s, the growth of the Canadian industry has focused mainly on working with foreign countries to conclude agreements for the purchase of our fruit. Canadian cherries are exported to more than 20 countries, including Japan and South Korea.
30 Aug 2024
The “cherry glow” promotion highlighted the benefits of cherries for health and beauty to boost consumption and movement of Northwest cherries. The promotion was launched across the United States, reaching retailers, media, influencers, and social media users.
06 Nov 2025
The 2025-26 Chilean cherry season kicks off with an air shipment to New York. Crunchy, sweet, high-quality fruit sets the tone. Forever Fresh targets the US market to reduce reliance on China and strengthen winter exports with premium, carefully selected varieties.
06 Nov 2025
Vignola's fruit consortia renew leadership after Andrea Bernardi's passing. Lenzarini and Cavani take over, aiming for continuity, innovation and unity while enhancing the territory and supporting IGP cherries and plums across the local agri-food system.
