Overview
SIST ISO 7920:1996 is an international standard providing comprehensive guidance on the cold storage and refrigerated transport of sweet cherries (Prunus avium L.) and sour cherries (Prunus cerasus L.). Published by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), this document aims to ensure the preservation of cherry quality during post-harvest handling through optimal storage and transportation conditions. The standard covers critical aspects such as harvesting methods, packaging, storage conditions, and refrigerated transport requirements, supporting both direct consumption and industrial processing.
Key Topics
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Harvesting and Maturity:
Sweet and sour cherries must be carefully hand-picked with stems intact to minimize damage and prevent juice exudation, which can compromise storage potential. The maturity stage of cherries is assessed by color, taste, and soluble solids content for optimal quality.
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Varietal Considerations:
- Sweet cherries: Dark-colored, firm-flesh varieties are best suited for cold storage and extended transport. Early ripening and soft-flesh varieties deteriorate rapidly and should be consumed quickly.
- Sour cherries: Late-ripening, firm-flesh varieties store better short term, whereas early, softer types are less suitable for storage.
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Storage Conditions:
- Optimal temperature range:
- Sweet cherries: +1 to +2 °C
- Sour cherries: -1 to +2 °C (note that temperatures below +1 °C may degrade taste)
- Relative humidity should be maintained between 90% and 95% to minimize moisture loss.
- Controlled atmosphere with proper air composition is essential for maintaining fruit quality.
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Packaging:
Packaging must protect cherries from mechanical damage and bruising during handling and transport. Common packaging includes wooden or fiberboard boxes, often lined with polyethylene sheets for moisture control. Paper liners are recommended only if non-hygroscopic to avoid staining.
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Refrigerated Transport:
Cherries should be continuously refrigerated during transport using ice or mechanical refrigeration via refrigerated trucks or railway cars. Transport duration should ideally not exceed 3 days to prevent quality degradation. Vehicles must be clean and free from contamination by harmful residues and properly pre-cooled before loading.
Applications
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Post-Harvest Handling:
Growers and packers can utilize ISO 7920 guidelines to optimize harvesting techniques, minimize mechanical damage, and select suitable varieties for long-term storage and transport.
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Cold Storage Facilities:
Storage operators can apply the recommended temperature and humidity parameters to maximize shelf life and maintain fruit firmness, flavor, and appearance.
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Refrigerated Logistics:
Logistics providers specializing in fruit transport can implement pre-cooling, packaging arrangements (per ISO 6661), and continuous refrigeration protocols to ensure cherries reach markets in peak condition.
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Food Processing Industry:
Processors of sweet and sour cherries may refer to the standard to agree on harvesting methods (e.g., stem-on vs. stemless fruit) and quality requirements for industrial use.
Related Standards
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ISO 2169:
Defines physical conditions in cold stores, providing terminology and measurement practices relevant to cherry storage environments.
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ISO 6661:
Specifies arrangements for parallelepipedic packages in land transport vehicles, ensuring proper packaging configurations for transportation efficiency and product protection.
Conclusion
SIST ISO 7920:1996 is an essential standard for stakeholders involved in the cultivation, storage, transport, and processing of sweet and sour cherries. By adhering to its guidance on optimal post-harvest handling, cold storage, and refrigerated transport conditions, industry participants can significantly reduce quality loss, extend shelf life, and improve consumer satisfaction. This standard supports global trade and helps maintain the high quality and safety of cherries throughout the supply chain.