This project aims to improve the quality and marketability of capsicums and chillis by reducing post-harvest losses and consignment rejections due to defects such as internal rot, silvering, and pitting. By working with leading producers across major growing regions, the project will map and monitor supply chain performance, assess fruit quality using digital and traditional methods, and develop best practice recommendations for both production and post-harvest handling. The goal is to increase the volume of blemish-free, high-quality fruit that meets retailer specifications, ultimately improving grower profitability. 

Key challenges addressed include managing harvest maturity, fruit structure and composition, and post-harvest cool chain processes. The project will also explore how production and handling techniques affect fruit quality and develop predictive tools for retail outcomes. With support from regional grower groups, the project will take a grower-led approach to research and extension, enabling broader adoption of improved practices that enhance product uniformity, ripening control, and reduce the risk of rejection in commercial supply chains. 

This project has been funded by Hort Innovation, using the research and development levies listed below and contributions from the Australian Government. Hort Innovation is the grower-owned, not-for-profit research and development corporation for Australian horticulture.

• Vegetable Fund