The supply chain for yellow-fleshed and red-fleshed kiwifruit is the focus of this video lesson from the Macfrut Academy, Macfrut’s innovative platform. The episode will be available to watch free of charge on Thursday 30 January at 5 pm (Italian time) by registering on the Academy platform: https://academy.macfrut.com
The focus is on kiwifruit, one of the most interesting fruits on the market today: a product with the potential to add value at every stage of the supply chain, and as such the subject of significant investment. The market is driven by the pursuit of innovation, starting with variety innovation, and in addition to the now traditional green-fleshed kiwi, efforts have been focused on developing yellow-fleshed and red-fleshed varieties, as demonstrated in the Macfrut Academy video lesson presented by journalist Maicol Mercuriali.
The International Kiwifruit Organisation reports that Europe produces approximately 700,000 tonnes of kiwifruit, with the majority being green-fleshed kiwi, whose production is under threat from plant pathologies such as blight and the PSA bacterial disease, as well as from new pathogens and insects, including the brown marmorated stink bug. In light of this, yellow-fleshed and red-fleshed varieties have been introduced in response to the challenges posed by climate change in the main kiwifruit (Actinidia) producing regions: these varieties are not only innovative in terms of taste but are also more resilient when it comes to phytosanitary and climatic challenges. These developments need to be supported and managed to ensure a balance in terms of volume while maintaining the highest possible quality standards. In order to drive innovation and meet the challenges of an increasingly demanding market, while protecting farmer incomes and supply chain margins, it is essential to implement organisational models that encourage variety innovation.
In the video lesson dedicated to the supply chain for yellow-fleshed and red-fleshed kiwifruit, the Macfrut Academy takes a closer look at the Jingold model. It begins with an analysis of the criteria that guide the selection of production areas and varieties, and ends with drawing up specifications for each variety, which regulate key factors such as irrigation, soil management and plant protection. Research projects, monitoring technologies and quality control are also discussed. Monitoring is carried out by independent experts, such as Check Fruit: an additional guarantee system that Jingold offers to the market.
Packaging is a valuable ally in preserving the quality of produce grown in the field and selected in the warehouse. In this video lesson, Smurfit Westrock takes an in-depth look at the main packaging solutions used for kiwifruit, also in relation to each target market. It also looks at the latest innovations in the sector, such as ethylene-absorbing packaging that extends the shelf life of kiwifruit, and solutions for e-commerce, a growing channel, but still a niche one.
Kiwifruit is Italy’s third most exported fruit in the world, after apples and table grapes. Logistics is another key factor in the value chain of this product. In this video lesson, Nord Ovest provides an overview of all the key steps in maintaining quality during the transport of kiwifruit, as well as the latest shipment tracking technologies.
Macfrut Academy is the innovative digital platform for professionals in the fruit and vegetable sector. An agile and prestigious scientific platform that provides insight into key issues and keeps fruit and vegetable supply chain professionals up to date with the latest industry news. All episodes are also available on demand by registering on the platform.
Info: academy@macfrut.com
