POMEWEST research and development

Rubens Technologies has developed a system for non-destructive and real-time assessment of fruit quality and maturity.

Words Daniel Pelliccia

THE technology is based on a hand-held device and calibration models based on machine learning. The device connects to a smartphone app and can be used in the field, to collect data without picking the fruit. It can also be used in the packhouse for quality control. Using spectral sensing combined with proprietary algorithms, the scanner measures brix, firmness and starch in apples, replacing time-consuming, subjective manual checks with near real-time data.

In addition, Rubens data now integrates with the AgroFresh FreshCloud digital platform to enables growers to quickly and easily collect fruit quality indicators to help them predict the optimal time for picking and assess fruit quality, without damaging the produce.

During the past season, Rubens Technologies has worked with Pomewest to pilot the technology with WA apples for Pink Lady® and Bravo® .

The aim was to validate and fine-tune the calibrations for sugars (brix), firmness, and starch reading, and assess their accuracy compared to traditional testing methods.

Recently, Rubens Technologies have announced a groundbreaking collaboration with AgroFresh, a global leader in post-harvest produce freshness and quality solutions. The collaboration will facilitate access to the Rubens solution through the global AgroFresh network.

The handheld Rubens Technologies scanner: • Helps the grower better predict optimum harvest timing and reduces waste by eliminating damaging testing methods.

• Enables larger sample size for improved accuracy, ensuring top-quality fruit reaches the market.

• Cuts testing and grading costs by automating data collection and displaying it within the FreshCloud platform.

“We believe the Rubens scanner offers a unique value proposition, improving fruit quality by giving growers fast and reliable insight pre-harvest as well as along the post-harvest supply chain, reducing waste through non-destructive testing and offering greater profitability for all stakeholders,” says Daniel Pelliccia, Founder and CEO of Rubens Technologies.