Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1536636
Article by Dorian Galea, Mgarr Farming Ltd BERRIES are among the most nutri- ent-rich, high-value crops but are high- ly vulnerable to post-harvest spoilage due to their high moisture content, volatile bioactive compounds, and sen- sitivity to pathogens and temperature f luctuations. Funded under the MSCA-RISE-2020 - Research and Innovation Staff Exchange scheme of the European Union, FRIETS fosters collaboration between research institutions and companies through reciprocal knowledge exchange and re- searcher mobility. The consortium includes 13 partners from 5 European countries and the UK, united under the coordination of func- tional food company REZOS BRANDS S.A. based in Patras, Greece. The four- year project is supported with a €2.43 million budget. A sustainable value chain for berries FRIETS aims to develop a sustaina- ble value chain for berries, spanning all stages from cultivation to the final consumer. By integrating precision farming practices, eco-friendly dehy- dration techniques, and edible coatings, the project seeks to deliver innovative, natural berry-based snacks—free from added sugars, salt, or chemical preserv- atives. It also includes life cycle assess- ments (LCA) and socio-technoeconom- ic evaluations to ensure sustainability at every production stage. Precision farming Through advanced precision agricul- ture techniques, FRIETS enhances the pre-harvest efficiency and resource use of berry crops. Leveraging geospatial data and field sensors, the project sup- ports optimized cultivation strategies, helping farmers conserve water and fer- tilizers. At the same time, smart deci- sion-support tools are being developed to tailor agronomic practices based on microclimatic conditions and crop-spe- cific needs. Post-harvest innovation: Osmotic dehydration & algae-based edible coatings A core focus of FRIETS is the study of osmotic dehydration—a mild, ener- gy-efficient method that reduces mois- ture while maintaining flavor and nutri- ents. By using apple juice as a natural osmotic agent, a clean-label solution is achieved with extended shelf life. Simultaneously, edible coatings made from polysaccharides and proteins ex- tracted from the microalga Chlorel- la vulgaris are being explored. These coatings provide microbial protection, preserve antioxidant properties, reduce weight loss, and maintain the berries' visual and sensory quality. Biodegrad- able and low-energy, these coatings promote sustainability even at the farm level. Environmental evaluation via Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) FRIETS uses Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) to quantify and compare the en- vironmental impacts of its innovative methods against conventional ones. While osmotic dehydration involves higher CO₂ emissions, it delivers eco- nomic and quality benefits such as re- duced fruit waste, better inventory con- trol, and export viability. Meanwhile, the algae-based edible coatings demon- strate a very low environmental foot- print, making them ideal for local and organic agriculture systems. A new pathway for Maltese agricul- ture More than a research initiative, FRI- ETS is a collaborative platform con- necting scientists, agronomists, and producers, steering the transition to- ward a more sustainable, efficient, and high-quality food production model. For Malta, the FRIETS outcomes offer tangible opportunities to: Reduce post-harvest losses • Improve the nutritional value of market products • Expand into niche markets (e.g., superfoods, organic products) • Strengthen clean-label offerings The project is a promising example of how research-driven innovation can revitalize the agricultural sector and bring Maltese products to the forefront of sustainable food innovation. maltatoday | SUNDAY • 22 JUNE 2025 6 COMMERCIAL Innovating the agri-food sector: FRIETS Project extends the shelf life and quality of berries In the face of ongoing challenges in the agri-food sector, the European research project FRIETS brings forward innovative solutions to preserve the quality and extend the shelf life of perishable fruits—particularly berries