Swiss research institute Empa has developed fake fruit that can measure the temperature of the real fruit when transported. The new method is said to be more accurate and less time-consuming than current methods.
The fake fruit lies between the real fruit during transport. They take the same temperature as the real fruit pieces. As a result, on arrival at destination, the fake fruit provides data on temperature changes during the journey. Mapping temperature fluctuations allows suppliers or transporters to adjust the temperature in time. This benefits the fruit's shelf life.
Currently, the freshness of fruit is often tested with a sensor inside the product. According to the researchers, this is a time-consuming task. Moreover, because the position of the fruit affects the temperature, this method is not always accurate. Using fake fruit, which is identical to real fruit in shape, size and texture, would give better temperature information. Empa is currently looking for industrial partners willing to produce the fruit sensors.
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