IRTA launches the 9th International Course on Postharvest Technology and Management

IRTA brings together international postharvest experts once again

IRTA will host the 9th International Course on Postharvest Technology and Fruit Management from 16 to 20 November 2026 at its Fruitcentre in Lleida, Spain. The programme has become one of the leading training events for professionals involved in fruit postharvest management.

Directed by Dr Rosario Torres and coordinated by Montse Palau, the course will feature researchers from IRTA, the University of Lleida and specialists with extensive industry experience.

Comprehensive programme covering the entire postharvest chain

Participants will receive training in fruit physiology, ripening, quality assessment, postharvest pathology, storage technologies, dynamic controlled atmospheres, refrigerated transport, packaging and energy efficiency.

The programme also includes workshops on physiological disorders and postharvest diseases, sensory analysis, digital quality assessment tools and fruit-pathogen interactions.

Practical learning and technical visits

The course combines lectures with practical workshops, technical demonstrations, case studies and visits to fruit packing facilities, IRTA laboratories, Mercabarna wholesale market and the Port of Barcelona to explore logistics and fruit distribution.

Designed for the fruit industry

The training targets professionals working in packing houses, refrigeration systems, postharvest equipment, controlled atmosphere technologies, packaging, phytosanitary products, transport companies and fruit quality services, as well as researchers and postgraduate students.

Attendance is limited to 16 participants to encourage discussion and networking.

Registration now open

Registration closes on 16 October 2026, while early registrations before 31 July benefit from a 10% discount. The course fee is €1,900 and includes course materials, meals, technical visits and local transport. Participants will receive an official IRTA certificate upon completion.

More information at IRTA