Image Analysis Assessment of the Shelf Life of Fresh Strawberries

Abstract

Extending the shelf life of food products like strawberries (Fragaria ananassa) is one of Europe's main goals to improving food safety and reduce food waste. In this study, a model has been developed to estimate and predict the quality of strawberries. Strawberries appearance and colour parameters has been determined by image analysis and traditional methods. Pictures of strawberries stored at 5-35 ºC were taken daily for 15 days. In total, 48 images were recorded and analysed. The colour images (RGB images) were processed in the laboratory using a specific image acquisition and analysis program. A linear model has been developed with high accuracy (R2=0.83) to estimate appearance based only in image analysis. This approach allows the use of this technology in the food chain industry.