Japan has made strides in the preservation of fruit and vegetable freshness through a novel application of near-infrared light. The Shikoku Research Institute, under the Shikoku Electric Power Group in Takamatsu, Kagawa Prefecture, has developed a technology dubbed iR Fresh. By exposing produce to near-infrared light for just 0.1 seconds, iR Fresh aims to reduce mold, spoilage, food waste, and pesticide use.
The technology, which utilizes the same type of light found in TV remote controls, has been patented and was highlighted in a respected international journal in 2015. According to Kazumasa Kakibuchi, a senior researcher at the institute, the application of strong near-infrared light prompts produce to close stomata and increase antioxidant activity, thereby suppressing mold growth and wilting.
Experiments have demonstrated the efficacy of iR Fresh in maintaining the firmness and luster of spinach for six days at room temperature, compared to untreated spinach which began to wilt after four days. Similar results were observed with mandarin oranges, showing reduced weight loss, spoilage, and enhanced sweetness and color. The technology has proven effective across a variety of produce, including leafy vegetables like cabbage, and fruiting vegetables such as tomatoes, and strawberries.
While previous research focused on light exposure during cultivation, the institute's post-harvest application represents a significant advancement. Currently, iR Fresh is utilized in large-scale collection centers and sorting facilities, with plans to develop portable devices for household use.
Moreover, iR Fresh offers potential benefits for the logistics industry by maintaining product quality during transport delays and facilitating longer-distance shipping. The technology also shows promise in reducing pesticide use, with ongoing experiments indicating its ability to suppress plant diseases. Kakibuchi envisions future applications involving drones to apply iR Fresh across entire fields, furthering research and development toward new agricultural innovations.
Source: The Asahi Shimbun