This project will deliver the information and resources needed to ensure the quality and safety of baby leaf salads for Australian consumers. It will focus on improving shelf life and quality, effective weed management and managing disease.

Challenge

This project seeks to address key challenges faced in baby leaf production, including extending the shelf life and maintaining the quality of baby leaf salads under varying conditions, effectively managing weed incursions and contamination, and identifying and controlling diseases specific to major Australian production areas.  

Ensuring robust leaf texture, proper temperature control, and efficient harvesting practices is difficult, especially under harsh environmental conditions that strain product longevity. Weed incursions also poses a risk of contamination, while disease threats require identification and strategic management.  

Addressing these diverse issues demands practical, scientifically backed solutions that meet consumer expectations for safe and high-quality products. Communicating these findings effectively within the industry is essential to achieving sustainable improvements and aligning best practices across Australian production regions. 

Response

The project will work closely with growers and processors to field-test practical methods for maximising baby leaf salad shelf life and quality. Efforts include improving shelf life by field-testing handling practices, enhancing leaf robustness, and refining harvesting and temperature control methods with growers.  

The project will also investigate the toxicology and biology of target weeds to develop cost-effective management strategies reducing contamination risks, leveraging both international and Australian research.  

Disease management will focus on spinach, first testing control strategies in glasshouses, then implementing them in the field. Communication efforts will ensure that best practices are widely disseminated through guides, workshops, and field days.

Benefit

The project will enhance the quality and safety of baby leaf salads by extending shelf life and reducing waste. Enhanced weed and disease management strategies will improve crop yields and reduce contamination risks, benefiting both growers and consumers.  

By providing practical, research-backed solutions and fostering collaboration across the industry, growers can deliver a fresher, safer products while boosting profitability.  

Clear communication of these advancements through industry networks will ensure rapid, cohesive adoption, leading to lasting improvements across the sector. Ultimately, consumers will enjoy safer, high-quality produce, reinforcing trust in the Australian baby leaf salad industry.

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