NIR, a non destructive tool for the frequent analyses necessary to monitor quality and setting harvest dates in a wide variety of cherries

Visual to near-infrared spectroscopy (Vis-NIR) is widely used in the supply chain to optimize the production of fruits. The application of this versatile technique is being tested and tried for an increasing number of fresh produce. Recent research shows which internal parameters in cherries can be estimated non-destructively by NIR spectroscopy. Based on their findings, scientists recommend the use of handheld devices with NIR spectroscopy for the - . NIR SpectroscopyNIR spectroscopy is the interaction of the NIR spectrum (760–2500 nanometers [nm]) of light with the atomic bonds within chemicals. In the case of NIR, bonds involving hydrogen, such as O–H, C–H, and N-H, are vital. Since these bonds have different energies, the difference in their interaction with NIR helps in the identification and quantification of the chemicals. The three interactions that are used in NIR spectroscopy are reflection, absorption, and transmission of NIR. Small, handheld devices that have miniaturized the complex technique of NIR spectroscopy are important for the cherry industry. They have the following advantages:- Onsite use in the entire supply chain - farms, cold storage, transport, retailing, and processing- Precise, objective, and rapid readings that are easy to understand- Operation is simple, so all personnel can use the tools without training There are an estimated 1500 varieties of cherries, belonging to two species:- Prunus avium, or sweet cherries, which are usually consumed as fresh fruits- Prunus cerasus, or sour cherries, which are processed into juice and brandy and are used for cooking Recent research findings have confirmed that NIR spectroscopy can be used in cherry varieties to detect and quantify- Firmness- Soluble Sugar content (SSC)- Dry matter (DM)- Acidity- Color intensity or chroma F-750 Produce Quality MeterBased on NIR spectroscopy, the F-750 Produce Quality Meter, manufactured by Felix Instruments Applied Food Science, is a general device for fresh produce. The F-750 can non-destructively measure SSC, DM, titrable acidity, and color. Individual readings can be generated within 4-6 seconds.Read the COMPLETE ARTICLE