POSTHARVESTMED 2025: Innovation and the Future of Postharvest in Mediterranean Crops

From September 17 to 19, 2025, the city of Palermo will host POSTHARVESTMED, a leading technical congress for researchers, professionals, and institutions involved in postharvest science and technology. Organized by the SOI Postharvest Working Group in collaboration with the SECH Postharvest Group of Spain, the symposium will be held at the historic Botanical Garden of the University of Palermo, located at Via Lincoln 2.

This edition holds special significance as it celebrates the 31st anniversary of the SOI Postharvest Group, and marks the ninth edition of this scientific symposium series, fostering international collaboration and knowledge transfer to strengthen the agri-food value chain across the Mediterranean region and beyond.

Main Topics

POSTHARVESTMED 2025 will focus on the latest scientific and technological innovations applied to horticultural and ornamental crops. The technical program will cover six key areas:

• Precision Technologies and Artificial Intelligence: Emerging applications of AI, sensors, and automation for postharvest monitoring and management.
• Preharvest Management, Ripening, Quality Assessment, and Preservation: Innovative strategies to optimize quality and shelf life from field to consumer.
• Postharvest Biochemistry and Physiology: Physiological and biochemical processes that influence product quality after harvest.
• Safety and Sustainability: New approaches promoting food safety and environmental responsibility.
• Fresh-Cut Products and Innovative Packaging: Packaging solutions that extend shelf life and reduce environmental impact.
• Biotic and Abiotic Factors: Analysis and control of postharvest conditions affecting product preservation.

Detailed Program

• September 17: Official opening of the congress, followed by thematic sessions on precision technologies and AI, and discussions on ripening, quality, and postharvest physiology.
• September 18: Technical visit to Oranfrizer, a leading Italian company in the distribution of blood oranges, citrus fruits, fresh produce, and 100% NFC juices. The day includes a hosted lunch and concludes with a social dinner at the Palermo Botanical Garden.
• September 19: Final sessions focused on sustainability, food safety, and innovative packaging for fresh-cut products, ending with institutional discussions on biotic and abiotic factors affecting postharvest conservation.

POSTHARVESTMED 2025 offers a unique opportunity to build scientific networks, exchange international experiences, and stay updated on the trends shaping the future of postharvest management. For registration, program details, and the latest updates, visit: postharvestmed.com