Review: Recent Advances in the Use of Non-Destructive near Infrared Spectroscopy for Intact Olive Fruits

Abstract

The objective of this review is to illustrate the state of the art in the use of non-destructive near infrared (NIR) spectroscopy for quality evaluation of intact fruit in the olive industry. First, the most recent studies regarding the application of non-destructive NIR spectroscopy methods for the assessment of external olive quality are reviewed. External defects including mechanical damage, bruising, ground origin and insect infestation, and the consequences of these defects for finished products are reported. Second, research regarding chemical parameters of olive fruits is reviewed; in particular, the use of portable instruments to measure quality parameters such as moisture, oil and phenolic content while the fruit is on the tree, with the goal of monitoring the trends in these parameters during olive development. Finally, research on intact olive authenticity, an important aspect for legal and economic reasons, is reviewed. As most studies cited indicate the feasibility of NIR spectroscopy for non-destructive evaluation of many quality parameters, this review stresses the urgent need for technology transfer to olive facilities to enhance product quality while reducing production costs.