This project was completed in September 2023. Read the project's final report.
This project successfully identified key indicators and required parameters to assure the quality of Australian avocados on arrival in export markets.
Leading Australian producer, Costa now has objective data on how to select a block for export, when to pick, and what factors pre- and post-harvest contribute to growing and supplying robust avocados.
The Australian avocado industry now has contemporary advice through the Export Best Practice Guidelines to implement improvements within its supply chain.
Avocado production in Australia is increasing with around 170,000 tonnes forecast by 2026.
Domestic consumption isn't t keeping pace with supply and greater focus on export supply chains is needed but Australian avocados destined for export face a long and complex journey.
To reduce waste and ensure their customers have the best eating experience, growers must ensure that the avocados they produce are robust enough to survive the trip.
Avocados that arrive in overseas markets at various stages of ripeness can result in small but frequent claims and reduced returns for growers. For leading Australian producer Costa Avocado, reducing these claims could be worth an additional $1.6M in revenue from exports to Asia by 2025.
This project aims developed a data model that identifies the lead indicators of avocado robustness such as growing conditions, harvest timing, storage duration and temperature, along with handling practices. These ‘lead indicators’ will be used to determine if and when an avocado is suitable for export.
The Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF) performed laboratory tests for robustness on avocados from different regions in Queensland and Northern NSW. At the same time, Costa Avocado and DAF conducted monitoring trials to measure fruit maturity, mineral composition, defects, and shelf-life.
Then, researchers from the Queensland University of Technology analysed this data to create a bespoke decision support system.
Two sets of Export Best Practice Guidelines developed by DAF were business-specific for Costa and ‘generic’ for use by other businesses in the industry, respectively.
They were developed to give guidance to partners in all aspects of export supply chain management.
Avocado Quality Manager at Costa
