2007 Annual Report 1a.Objectives (from AD-416) To improve shelf life and quality of intact and fresh-cut fruits such as mango, carambola, citrus, and lychee. 1b.Approach (from AD-416) 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. 3.Progress Report This report documents research conducted under a Non-Funded Cooperative Agreement between ARS and the French Agricultural Research Center for International Development (CIRAD). Additional details of research can be found in the report for the in-house associated project 6621-430000-001-00D, “Enhancement of the Quality and Microbial Stability of Fresh Fruits and Vegetables with Edible Coatings and Other Surface Treatments”. Plans were made to host a French visiting scientist to conduct experiments on cut mango in Florida, but funds were not adequate for travel and living allowance. Plans were also made to test a French formulation for retardation of lychee fruit browning in Florida, but unusually warm temperatures resulted in poor and sporadic lychee bloom in south Florida, resulting in a drastically reduced fruit load, unsuitable for experiments. Monitoring of progress was accomplished through periodic emails.