Scientists at The Volcani Center in Israel have launched a pioneering project aimed at enriching fruit varieties with extra health properties.
Eli Tomer, head of Volcani department of horticulture, said that until now research focused on improving fruits' external shapes, colours, size and shelf life. “In view of consumers' awareness of the health aspects of fresh produce, we embarked on this novel project which might be a breakthrough for Israel's exports,” he said.
The project includes the nutritional enrichment of mango, figs and almonds, and will expand into other fruits. The main objective is to pinpoint the anti-oxidant components that contribute to strengthening the body's immune system. It is then intended to involve private companies.
Volcani researchers are formulating ways and means of cultivating and keeping fruits for the preparation of fresh-cut lines, similar to the ready-to-eat vegetables and salads that are already established on the marketplace.
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