To develop marketing protocols for FEMA designated orchards that are harvested two to three weeks after normal release but do not qualify for FEMA release

Many Forelle orchards are earmarked for the FEMA program, but do not qualify which could result in over mature fruit as part of the normal Forelle program. The aim of this project is to develop a marketing protocol for fruit that do not meet FEMA release criteria, but were from orchards designated for FEMA release.

Forelle orchards were harvested at normal release and ± 2 weeks later. Fruit were subjected to a pear and FEMA rate 1-MCP application followed by 8 and 12 weeks cold storage. Fruit were subjected to a sensory analysis after shelf life. Results were linked with local handling norms.

Forelle orchards were harvested at various firmness levels. After 8 weeks cold storage FEMA rate 1-MCP resulted in slightly crispier fruit compared to pear rate 1-MCP. One orchard harvested at an advanced maturity showed that FEMA rate 1-MCP was more effective in retaining fruit firmness after 12 weeks cold storage than pear rate 1-MCP.

To retain firmness levels during cold storage of Forelle pears harvested at an advanced maturity a FEMA rate 1-MCP application is recommended. This fruit still has a risk of ripening to firmness levels unacceptable for the FEMA program and should therefore be exported as part of the normal Forelle program.

Treat late harvested Forelle orchards not granted FEMA release with a FEMA rate 1-MCP dose to avoid excessive ripening during storage, but keep fruit as part of the normal Forelle program by cold storing it for 12 weeks.