Fruit ripening optimization using gas sensors
Innovation in food preservation, particularly for fruits and vegetables, is vital in the face of rapidly changing consumer habits and the growing challenges of food safety, sustainability and waste reduction. These advances concern not only our food, but also our environment, economy and health.
The ripening of horticultural products, a crucial stage in the supply chain, requires particular attention to guarantee their quality and meet consumer expectations. In this context, gas sensors are essential to ensure proper ripening and extend the shelf life of these products.
Gas sensing during fruit ripening processes : benefits
- Precision control
Gas sensors enable growers and suppliers to monitor and control levels of gases such as ethanol, carbon dioxide and oxygen in ripening/cooling chambers. This precision control ensures that fruits and vegetables ripen at the desired rate, reducing waste and optimizing the use of resources.
- Quality preservation
By maintaining the ideal gas composition, gas sensors help preserve the flavor, texture and appearance of horticultural produce. The result is higher-quality products that are more attractive to consumers.
- Energy efficiency
Gas sensors enable efficient use of energy in ripening chambers by automatically adjusting gas levels as required. This not only reduces energy costs, but also minimizes environmental impact.
Application example: apple ripening
Gas sensors play an essential role in controlling the ripening of apples, one of the world’s most widely consumed fruits. Apples are generally harvested before they reach full ripeness, in order to extend their shelf life during storage and transportation.
Gas sensors are used in specialized ripening chambers to precisely regulate oxygen, carbon dioxide and ethanol levels, as well as humidity and temperature. This ensures that apples ripen evenly, retain their crispness and develop the desired color and flavor profiles. The use of gas sensors for apple ripening not only improves fruit quality, but also prolongs its availability on the market, meeting consumer demand all year round.
EXPERTISE
Specific gas sensing : our expertise
Our gas sensors use the infrared spectroscopy technology to detect and measure the concentration of several gases. These sensors are integrated into ripening chambers and connected to control systems that adjust gas levels based on real-time data.
Our non-dispersive infrared (NDIR) sensor includes a detector measuring specific-wavelength infrared light absorbed by a sample. Infrared light passes through a chamber to the detector, and gas absorbs energy at that wavelength. The detector measures this attenuation to determine gas concentration, aided by a bandpass optical filter that removes unwanted wavelengths absorbed by the gas.
Gas sensors are revolutionizing the horticultural industry, enabling precise control of the fruit and vegetable ripening process. Their ability to maintain the ideal gas composition means higher-quality produce, longer shelf life, less waste and lower energy consumption.
