New Zealand reaps harvest of innovative technology

Fruit Logistica 2016 provides a unique forum for exploring new ideas in everything from value-chain data capture to drone-enabled production systems. And one remote country at the far end of the earth is set to unveil some significant innovations at this year’s show. In addition to IP in plant breeding and genetics, New Zealand researchers have developed valuable technology in a range of critical areas. This year’s exhibitors include Zespri, Plant & Food Research, Wyma, BBC Technologies and Compac, who will all be showcasing their latest technology. Auckland-based Compac, a leader in sorting and grading technology, is rolling out its new Spectrim™ optical sorting platform, which incorporates advances in defect detection, classification and operator ease of use. With the ability to take up to 500 high-definition images of a single piece of fruit as it passes through the machine at a rate of 12 pieces of fruit per second, Spectrim detects tiny external blemishes and delivers unrivalled grading accuracy. Compac expects European growers to leap at the labour-saving possibilities as well as Spectrim’s powerful grading capabilities. Chief Technology Officer Ken Moynihan (picture 1, left; Nathan Soich, right) says “Growers and packers are increasingly investing in technology that enhances their operations and brands. Although significant, it's not just about labor-saving, it´s increasingly all about the data. The high quality data produced by the Spectrim platform provides business intelligence that supports optimisation of the whole supply chain, from the field to the retailer, giving those who invest a distinctive edge in the marketplace.” he says. Another New Zealand company, BBC Technologies is the world’s leading supplier of blueberry sorting and packing machinery. It’s taking the opportunity to demonstrate its latest CURO filling system to European customers. The company has created the world’s fastest fresh produce-filling machine, capable of consistently packing 220 clamshells per minute. It believes the unrivalled speed of the CURO16, combined with its sensitive handling, makes it ideal for a range of small, high value fruits such as cherries. Also on show will be BBC Technologies’ MIRA cherry/tomato sorter, Soft Sorter (for blueberry softness sorting) and Color Sorter, which is designed for blueberry defect sorting. Declan Graham of Plant & Food Research will be introducing a new diagnostic tool that tackles one of Europe’s persistent apple cropping issues. The AppleGenie project is developing a predictive diagnostics tool based on gene expression, enabling growers to rapidly assess their cropload programmes and deal with the threat of Bitter Pit Disorder.  The test result will give growers useful insights into when and how to apply chemical thinners to achieve optimal profitability. Another company built on New Zealand know-how is Wyma, 2nd picture, which invented the Vege-Polisher over 20 years ago. Providing a turnkey solution in vegetable packing, Wyma has changed the way root vegetables are presented at point of sale. Their latest V4 Vege-Polisher and their new Vertical Bin and Bag Filler will be on display at Fruit Logistica, providing potential customers with the chance to see New Zealand ingenuity in action. Kiwifruit marketer Zespri is taking part in Fruit Logistica for the 21st year in a row. Its new SunGold cultivar has enjoyed huge success in the very competitive European fruit market, with Spanish and German consumers voting it the top fresh product of 2015 in different consumer surveys.  There was strong demand for Green and sales across the continent supported this picture of success, with Zespri sales in Europe up 6 million trays to a total of 45 million last year. Along with promoting products and brand, Zespri connects with consumers through communicating the health benefits of kiwifruit, supported by research and development. One Zespri SunGold provides all daily recommended Vitamin C and Zespri Green kiwifruit is rich in fibre, which regulates digestion. In recent years New Zealand has developed strong brand recognition for the quality of its produce as well as its ability to serve European markets with premium fresh fruit and vegetables out of season. The exhibitors at this year’s Fruit Logistica show look forward to demonstrating fresh thinking in technology as well. Additional Facts- New Zealand horticultural production exceeded NZ$7 billion in 2015.- Over half the value of production was made up of exports (NZ$4.3 billion).- Apple exports exceeded $550M for the first time in 2015, with approximately 20% being New Zealand bred cultivars such as Jazz™ and Envy™. Pictures1 - Compac2 - Wyma3 - BBC4 - Plant & Food Research5 - Zespri