Sinclair IQ is a division of Sinclair International Limited, one of the world market leaders in fruit labelling application systems.

The company has now launched the Sinclair Internal Quality – Firmness Tester (SIQ-FT) a non-destructive on-line system for testing the firmness of individual fruit.

The Norwich-based company has developed the automated high-speed system for use by fruit distributors and packhouses worldwide. The SIQ-FT enables fruit of a specified ripeness and consistent quality to be selected and supplied to retail markets.

The SIQ-FT uses piezoelectric sensors to measure the response at four locations around the circumference of every fruit on-line. By predicting elasticity, the system determines the ripeness level of each individual fruit. The SIQ-FT eliminates the need for destructive sampling, reducing product wastage and cost, said Sinclair.

SIQ-FT systems are now installed at commercial fruit operations in the UK, Europe, the US, South America, New Zealand and South Africa. Product applications include avocado, mango, kiwifruit, stonefruit and apples.

James Briggs, Sinclair IQ International sales specialist, said: 'The SIQ-FT is set to revolutionise the fruit supply chain. For example with avocados, there is a recognised need to present consumers with a product that is not either too firm or over ripe. The SIQ-FT uses non-destructive sensors to mimic the way consumers squeeze fruit to test its ripeness. It enables suppliers to provide retailers with consistent, ripe 'ready to eat' fruit to increase sales and encourage repeat purchases.' The SIQ-FT is compatible with all major fruit sizing equipment, enabling fruit to be sorted into multiple bands of firmness. The system is installed online and operates at high commercial speeds of up to 10 fruit per second.

The system will be exhibited at the annual Fruit Logistica exhibition in Berlin, from 16-18 January 2003. The Sinclair IQ stand (Hall 02.1 Stand D-2) will feature a working demonstration unit to give visitors an insight into the SIQ-FT's unique patented technology.

The SIQ-FT features patented technology developed by parent company Sinclair International Limited. Over the past 20 years the firm has grown to become one of the world market leaders in fruit labelling application systems.

Sinclair has a global network of sales and service teams in over 35 countries.

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