NSure has announced the extension of its range of tests by introducing the FreshNSure Pear test, which provides a tool to determine whether a batch of pears has been treated with the synthetic plant growth regulator 1-Methylcyclopropene (1-MCP).
The FreshNSure test clearly demonstrates whether or not 1-MCP, which leaves no residue after treatment, has been applied to pears based on the activity of a specific set of genes.
The test is currently available for the Abate Fetel variety, although the group said that FreshNSure will be available for Conference pears soon.
Pears are treated with 1-MCP to protect them from the adverse effect of ethylene, thereby improving shelf life and storability. Because 1-MCP delays ripening, it is applied in storage to maintain quality of recently harvested pears.
However, the use of 1-MCP is sometimes not desirable, or even allowed in certain markets. Therefore, NSure has developed the FreshNSure Pear test, which measures the activity of a selected set of genes affected by 1-MCP treatment. This enables NSure to determine whether 1-MCP has been applied or not.
FreshNSure’s practical sampling kit includes all tools needed to prepare a pear sample – one only needs to apply a few drops of juice to the sampling card.
NSure said that test results will be categorised as ‘not treated’ or ‘treated’, and test results are provided within 48 hours after arrival of the sample(s) at the laboratory.
The group collaborates with several distributors and laboratories in Europe to allow local service and guarantee the shortest turnaround times.
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