The article-interview deals mainly with the problems related to the poscosecha (post-harvest) of cherries, particularly the Regina variety, in the context of the Chilean cherry industry.
The interviewee, Juan Pablo Zoffoli, an expert in poscosecha and academic at the Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, identifies the main problem with poscosecha as the 'internal pardeamiento' of Regina, which negatively affects the flavour and quality of the cherries. This is a critical problem because Regina is an important variety for Chilean cherry production.
Zoffoli explains that internal pardeamiento is due to the senescence of the fruit and its degree of ripeness at harvest time. Therefore, he emphasises the importance of managing fruit maturity during the growing process to avoid this problem. Furthermore, he talks about the problems related to the size of the cherry, emphasising that larger calibre cherries tend to resist mechanical damage better.
He also mentions the problem of 'piel de lagarto' (lizard skin), which affects the appearance of cherries without affecting their flavour or flesh, but can make the fruit less attractive to consumers.
Finally, Zoffoli discusses the challenges of climate change, pointing out that rain during the harvest season is particularly problematic as it can cause micro-fractures in the fruit that negatively affect the poscosecha. He proposes the use of plastic covers and fungicide treatments to mitigate the effects of rain.
In summary, the interview focuses on specific problems related to cherry poscosecha, such as browning and shriveling, and discusses the climatic challenges faced by the Chilean cherry industry.
Read the full article: RedagrÍcola
20 May 2024
A 2023 consumer study that surveyed over 2,000 consumers found that the key factors continue to be quality and flavour. However, once the retail price reaches $4.50 per pound, sales begin to decline.
25 Jan 2024
The project results promise new standards for nitrogen management in the cherry industry. Fertiliser use can be optimised and N losses reduced if applications follow tree demand and seasonal uptake patterns.
16 Jun 2026
Cooperation between Belarus and VNIISPK strengthens genetic improvement in apple, cherry and currant, selecting productive, disease-resistant varieties adapted to local conditions and supporting a more innovative, resilient and competitive fruit industry across Eastern Europe.
16 Jun 2026
The 2026 sweet cherry season in Italy’s Euganean Hills reflects unstable weather, strong yields and direct sales. In Vò, Laura Ambrosi explains how quality, fruit size up to 30 mm, trust and territorial identity create value for growers, tourists and consumers in Veneto.
