As industries worldwide grapple with the demands of modernity, the fruit-growing sector is not standing still. In 2024, innovations are reshaping how fruits are cultivated, harvested, and marketed, reflecting a broader trend of adaptation to contemporary challenges such as climate change, labor shortages, and pest management. The integration of advanced technologies is setting the pace for the future of agriculture, with developments expected to continue into 2025 and beyond.
One of the standout trends this year is the increasing use of drones in agriculture. In Mexico, a project titled “Detection and classification of mango fruits by means of RGB images captured with a drone” aims to enhance productivity and cut costs while addressing labor shortages in the fruit industry. This initiative exemplifies how aerial technology can streamline operations and provide precise data for farmers. Similarly, in Colombia, drones are being utilized for fumigation, offering a more cost-effective and environmentally friendly method of applying agrochemicals, thereby minimizing their impact on surrounding ecosystems.
Artificial intelligence is another critical player in the ongoing transformation of fruit agriculture. Researchers at the National Robotarium, in collaboration with scientists from Chile and Spain, have developed a system capable of counting blossoms on fruit trees to predict crop sizes up to six months in advance. This technology, already tested in Spain’s peach orchards with impressive accuracy, promises to enhance yield efficiency and sustainability. Dr. Fernando Auat Cheein emphasized that this innovative approach could significantly reduce the reliance on traditional yield estimation methods, which often come with substantial margins of error.
International collaboration is also evident in efforts to bolster the competitiveness of fruit farming. The FOAR 6809 project in Argentina, which partners with Vietnam, focuses on improving harvest and post-harvest techniques through biotechnology. This initiative aims to ensure that tropical fruit farming in northern Argentina remains sustainable and competitive in the global market.
Robotics is making strides in fruit harvesting as well. At Washington State University, researchers have developed a robotic gripper designed to gently pick apples, minimizing damage during harvest. Meanwhile, at Michigan State University, efforts are underway to enhance the functionality of apple-picking robots using AI to identify the ripest fruit. Mississippi State University is also exploring automated blackberry harvesting, employing a robot with sensors that mimic human touch to prevent bruising.
In addition to these technological advancements, the fruit industry is also addressing serious challenges such as crime linked to illicit activities. In Ecuador, the government is launching the “Safe Farms” initiative to protect the banana sector from drug trafficking groups that exploit fruit exports for smuggling purposes. This proactive measure underscores the importance of safeguarding agricultural production against external threats.
The drive for innovation extends to the genetic modification of fruits as well. Pairwise, a leader in genetics-based food innovation, has introduced the first small, soft-seeded blackberry created using CRISPR technology, providing consumers with a seedless option that maintains taste and quality. Additionally, universities are developing climate-resilient varieties of apples and berries, such as heat-resistant MD-TAP1 and MD-TAP2 from the University of Maryland, and projects in Chile focusing on new berry varieties that can withstand changing climate conditions.
Disease and pest resistance is another critical area of focus, with New Zealand’s Prevar launching GoodnessMe, an apple with enhanced resistance to multiple diseases. In a significant breakthrough for the banana industry, Chiquita has partnered with several organizations to develop Yelloway One, a hybrid banana resistant to serious fungal threats.
The advancements in the fruit-growing sector are numerous and varied, ranging from improved varieties to cutting-edge harvesting techniques. As researchers, geneticists, and agricultural scientists continue to push the boundaries of innovation, the future of fruit agriculture looks promising, promising to meet the challenges of a changing world while enhancing productivity and sustainability. The question remains: what new breakthroughs will emerge next, and how will they continue to reshape the landscape of fruit growing?
