Mexico City, September 30, 2019 (IICA) – A new methodology developed by the National Institute for Forestry, Agricultural, and Livestock Research (INIFAP) can precisely determine the exact moment when avocados have reached the desired avocado quality for harvesting. This innovation helps prevent millions of dollars in losses for Mexican avocado producers and ensures that only high-quality avocados are harvested, maximizing profitability and reducing waste by maintaining optimal avocado quality.

Impact of this Quality Control Innovation

The new method is the result of a decade-long collaboration between INIFAP, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC), and the Agriculture Research Service of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA-ARS). Thanks to this collaboration, avocado producers can now accurately determine when their fruits are ripe. This is critical for maintaining quality and meeting international standards.

Advantage Over Traditional Methods

Previously, dry matter testing using microwave technology was employed to assess avocado quality. However, this process was imprecise and time-consuming. INIFAP’s method, on the other hand, utilizes a portable spectrometer. This enables producers to quickly and accurately test avocado quality in just 15 seconds, with 95% accuracy.

Economic Benefits for the Avocado Industry

Being able to accurately assess avocado quality is crucial for increasing export volumes. Jorge Osuna, the INIFAP researcher leading this effort, explained, «Accurately determining the ideal harvest time can boost avocado export volumes. A 10% increase in sales could generate an additional USD 271 million in revenue annually.»

Expanding the Global Market for Mexican Avocados

Mexico remains the leading supplier of avocados to the U.S., supplying between 75% and 85% of the avocados consumed in the country. Furthermore, the demand for high-quality Mexican avocados is also increasing in Canada. This new testing method helps ensure that avocados meet quality standards, further expanding the market.

A Bright Future for the Avocado Industry

This groundbreaking innovation will revolutionize avocado harvesting, ensuring that only the best-quality avocados are selected for export, which will ultimately benefit producers and strengthen Mexico’s position in the global market.