Project Number: 6621-43000-001-03
Project Type: Nonfunded Cooperative Agreement

Start Date: Feb 01, 2006
End Date: Jan 31, 2009

Objective:
To improve shelf life and quality of intact and fresh-cut fruits such as mango, carambola, citrus, and lychee.

Approach:
The parties agree jointly to explore and coordinate research activities of mutual interest, which will be implemented by mutual understanding and in conformity with the regulations and policies of both parties. To this end the parties agree to assign such members of its staff as may be agreed upon to assist in research exploring anti-microbial surface treatments or coatings applied to intact or fresh-cut fruits such as mango, citrus, carambola and lychee by dip or spray method and to evaluate treated fruit for effect on extended shelf life, due to reduced decay, and quality by measuring number of lesions, color, texture, aroma and, in some cases, sensory attributes. Quality parameters (color, texture and flavor) will be monitored using gas and liquid chromatography, colorimeters, and texture analyzers. Research may involve resource contributions such as exchanges of scientific personnel, facilities, equipment, supplies, labor, funds or other items necessary to support collaborative research activities as mutually agreed upon.