Topic 2: Towards diverse, sustainable and circular food processing systems
As the Post-Harvest Physiology Department of Atatürk Central Horticultural Research Institute (Turkey), we are seeking to join a consortium as a research and validation partner. We are specifically interested in Topic 2 (Sustainable Food Processing) and Topic 3 (Trust and Transparency). (It can be Topic 1 as well).
We offer the following expertise and infrastructure:
Packaging & Material Validation: We investigate the effects of different packaging materials (active, smart, biodegradable) on fruit quality. We act as a testing ground for partners developing new materials.
Shelf-Life Extension & Loss Reduction: We conduct applied research on pre-harvest and post-harvest treatments to minimize losses and extend the shelf-life of horticultural crops (especially climacteric fruits).
Storage Optimization: We utilize our advanced cold storage facilities and Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP) units to optimize storage protocols.
Quality Analysis: We conduct comprehensive physicochemical and sensory analyses to evaluate product quality at all stages of production, processing, storage, and packaging, thereby assessing the impact of different practices on the final product characteristics.
Project Experience: Our department has extensive experience in managing national and international R&D projects. We have successfully executed and are currently conducting projects funded by TAGEM (General Directorate of Agricultural Research and Policies), TÜBİTAK (The Scientific and Technological Research Council of Türkiye), COMCEC (ISEDAK), and various Development Agencies.
Atatürk Central Horticultural Research Institute is a public research institution under the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry of Türkiye, specialized in horticultural research and innovation.
The institute consists of 13 different departments focusing on horticultural sciences. One of these departments specializes in post-harvest physiology, quality preservation, shelf-life studies, loss reduction, and sustainable production systems. The institute also plays an active role in transferring scientific knowledge to farmers, advisors, and other stakeholders through training activities, demonstrations, and extension services.
