The world of fruit ripening is changing. Experience Fruit Quality and De Laat Koudetechniek have joined forces to develop innovative, customised ripening solutions for avocados, bananas, mangoes and, in the future, possibly kiwis and stone fruits. Together, these two Dutch companies have created RipeWise, a breakthrough solution that will dramatically transform the ripening process of fruit.
What is RipeWise?
RipeWise is more than just a tool; it is an intelligent system that uses data, artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced ripening technology to deliver consistent and predictable ripening results. The system collects comprehensive data on fruit development, such as harvest dates, transport conditions and quality controls, and combines it with information on ripening conditions in the cell. It then uses this data to create customised ripening recipes tailored to the origin, size and other specific characteristics of the fruit.
How it works
By bringing together Experience Fruit Quality's AI capabilities and De Laat Koudetechniek's hardware expertise, RipeWise offers ripeners a fully integrated solution. Tappers monitor fruit development over time, while AI models track colour changes to accurately control the ripening process. All this is done without the need for time-consuming manual inspections.
De Laat's custom-made ripening cells enable precise measurement and control, using patented airflow technology that both saves energy and improves flavour. Advanced sensors measure and control fruit respiration and ripening conditions, and work seamlessly with EFQ's software to provide comprehensive ripening management. This saves time, improves fruit quality and reduces energy consumption.
The power of AI and data
One of the key benefits of RipeWise is its ability to turn collected data into actionable insights. By using historical data from previous ripening cycles, the system can develop increasingly sophisticated recipes and protocols specific to each batch of fruit. As more data is collected, RipeWise's AI component will become increasingly powerful and help ripeners further optimise their processes.
‘By combining advanced hardware and software, RipeWise gives ripeners the tools to achieve optimal ripening results in any situation,’ said Marco de Jong, CEO of Experience Fruit Quality. ‘It enables them to focus their expertise on the most challenging batches of fruit, while simplifying daily processes and making them more efficient.’
The future of fruit ripening
RipeWise is not only an innovative solution for today, but also a platform ready for the future. While the system is currently being optimised for bananas, avocados and mangoes, it can easily be adapted for other fruits, such as kiwis and stone fruits. The first version of RipeWise will be available soon, allowing ripeners to record their experiences and create customised recipes.
‘By combining Experience Fruit Quality's AI capabilities with our knowledge of ripening hardware, we have created an ideal mix of human expertise and technological innovation,’ says Adriaan van Beek, CEO of De Laat Koudetechniek. ‘RipeWise monitors every step of the ripening process in detail and provides ripeners with all the information they need to make informed decisions and achieve optimal results.’
RipeWise is revolutionising the world of fruit ripening, bringing together technology and expertise to make the ripening process more predictable, efficient and energy efficient. The future of fruit ripening is now.
