Multi-trait approach to enhance FRUit qualITY in post-harvest storage conditions (FRUITY)

We will provide diagnostic kits to enable the fruit supply chain to apply objective quality tests to optimize internal and sensorial quality of fresh fruits throughout the whole supply chain, especially for long-range transport and storage involving chilling. This will enhance the nutritional benefits of fresh fruit consumption and promote the export of fruit from S. Italy. Peach has been chosen as a case study.Project aims will be delivered by applying novel technologies to develop rapid and non-destructive markers for quality evaluation and prediction and by using the markers developed as diagnostic tools to prevent and manage the quality loss.- This will involve: 1) assessing consumer preferences, characterizing flavor and health-related biochemistry to generate tests for quality evaluation; 2) analyzing chilling VOCs and genes to generate molecular markers for quality assessment; 3) developing an easy to use kit that allows quality checks throughout the distribution chain, identifying critical steps for subsequent optimization.