Abstract

My laboratory has studied the mechanical properties of tomato fruit walls. We have begun to understand how each of the many external layers of the fruit wall functions mechanically. Although this multi-functionality is very complex, as a general rule, the ability of the fruit to resist cracking (or a spontaneous rupturing during or after ripening) is correlated with wall thickness.

Issue

Millions of dollars are lost annually because tomatoes crack after they ripen.

Response

We have shown how different properties of the fruit wall correlate with different modes of fruit cracking, and thus shed light on the causes of fruit cracking.

Impact

Although our findings are preliminary, tomato breeders in Spain have told us that they are making significant advances in addressing the problem of fruit cracking thanks to our research. With further study, we are hopeful that this research will have economic impact.

Funding Sources

• State or Municipal (e.g., NYSDAM)
• CALS

Collaborators

• Department of Horticulture, Estación Experimental La Mayora (CSIC), Algarrobo-Costa, Malaga (Spain)

Key Personnel

• Antonio Matas
• Edward Cobb
• Dominick Paollilo