Abstract

 

The paper deals with an analysis of the post-harvest fruit handling process, with a special emphasis on critical points in the supply chain, from primary selection to waste valorisation. Post-harvest fruit handling is defined as an integral system of processes necessary to preserve the nutritional value and quality of the fruit, as a living organism that continues its metabolic functions even after separation from the parent plant. The paper presents the basic stages of harvesting, transport, and primary processing in order to emphasise that inadequate logistics and hygiene are the main causes of mechanical damage and microbiological contamination, which leads to losses of between 40–50% of the total volume at the global level. Attention is also paid to modern packaging technologies. Innovative packaging solutions, such as smart and active packaging, incorporating nanocomposites and real-time monitoring sensors, were analysed to extend the shelf life of fruit. In addition, the paper also focused on the treatment of agricultural waste in retail. Economic and environmental causes of fruit waste were identified, such as the insistence on “aesthetic perfection” and inefficient inventory management. The waste of edible fruit not only causes an economic cost, but also an environmental disaster caused by methane emissions in landfills. Finally, the paper affirms the concept of fruit waste valorisation in a circular economy system. Parts of fruit, such as peel and seeds, are seen as exceptional sources of bioactive compounds and fibres for the production of functional foods. Overall, the implementation of advanced post-harvest technologies and efficient processing of fruit waste serves as the only path towards reducing the ecological footprint and improving the economic profitability of the food industry.

 

Key words: Modern packaging methods, Fruit quality, Sustainability, Waste analysis