Dutch gene activity analyst NSure has expanded its testing equipment for apples to a wider range of common varieties in order to improve detection of pesticide's application.
The existing FreshNSure Apple test, which monitors the fruit’s gene activity, has been extended to a wider range of common varieties and can now be used for Golden Delicious and Pink Lady, as well as Gala, Red Delicious, Fuji, Granny Smith, Elstar and Jonagold.
The FreshNSure Apple test enables suppliers to determine whether a batch of apples has been treated with 1-MCP, a chemical that improves storability and shelf life. The pesticide leaves no residue after treatment but the FreshNSure test demonstrates whether or not 1-MCP has been applied based on the activity of a specific set of genes.
As well as validating the FreshNSure test for new varieties, NSure also aims to improve the test specifications. The company is currently investigating whether it is possible to advance the moment at which the chemical’s application can be detected from one month to three months after the apples have been stored.
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