Non-destructive determination of ripening in melon fruit using time-resolved spectroscopy

The aim of this work was to explore the feasibility time-resolved reflectance spectroscopy (TRS) in determining ripening degree and quality orange-fleshed melons. Sixty ‘Honey Moon’ melons were measured by TRS 540-1064 nm range classified as less (LeM), medium (MeM), more (MoM) mature according increasing values μa540. MoM fruit showed yellower peel color, slightly orange pulp, higher juiciness carotenoid contents than LeM ones. also internal ethylene concentration lower firmness ones, even if differences not significant. μa540 positively related ethylene, accumulation, juiciness, indicating that linked different processes However, relationship between total content high expected due low variability pulp color content. Changes flesh toward a shade accompanied increased production while changes associated with juiciness. In conclusion, absorption coefficient at 540 (μa540) could be used sort degrees; however, its applicability will need evaluated on larger number fruits other varieties.