Thermophysical properties of fruit—a review with reference to postharvest handling

The thermophysical data of fruit is vital to the study and optimization of postharvest handling processes. However, data available in the literature are not always consistent and must not be used directly. It is crucial to examine the accuracy and reliability of the property data. Also, models to predict the thermal properties of fruit are not distinctly identified and included in the list of models for food materials. The aim of this review is to show the gaps in fruit properties data with emphasis on those properties that are important during postharvest handling. This paper also presents a review of the measurement and prediction techniques for the thermophysical properties of fruit. Fruit thermophysical properties vary with temperature, moisture content, cultivar, and even between the various parts of the same product. The presented review is a valuable input for developing mathematical models that predict cooling rate, cooling time, cooling uniformity and refrigeration energy usage during postharvest handling processes (e.g. precooling and cold storage), as well as for applications related to prediction and monitoring of temperature induced fruit quality changes.