Near infrared spectroscopy to predict internal quality of mangoes

Consumers have high demands regarding the quality of mangoes. Fruits with internal defects lead to disappointment after sale and a decrease in purchases. The aim of this study is to predict internal quality of mangoes using non-destructive near infrared (NIR) measurements. The internal browning was measured from 3000 mangoes grown and harvested in Brazil, transported to the Netherlands and ripened. The results show a good correlation between the occurrence of internal defects and the loss of fruit firmness and increase in fruit flesh colour. NIR measurements allow sorting of mangoes for internal defects in a non-destructive manner, to ensure only mangoes without internal defects reach the consumers. This not only prevents consumer disappointment but also contributes to less waste and a more sustainable mango chain.