Maturity Monitoring Results
Based on consumer sensory research, the Avocados Australia mandated standard for Hass avocado maturity is 23% Dry Matter (DM) at time of harvesting. The Shepard standard is 21% DM. These levels have been shown to be the minimum levels to achieve satisfactory eating quality.
Avocados Australia in partnership with Applied Horticultural Research (AHR) is conducting monthly maturity monitoring from July 2023 to June 2026. The aim of this is to monitor the current level of compliance with DM standards and make comparisons with previously collected data.
Random samples of avocados are taken monthly from the Sydney wholesale market and tested for DM percentage as a measure of maturity. DM is assessed using the Hofshi Coring and oven drying method. Click here to view the full sampling and assessment methodology.
Avocados Australia provides timely feedback to the supplying packhouse, the results of which remain confidential. Deidentified data is averaged for the wider industry and is presented below.
Figure 1. Average Hass DM content by growing region:
Figure 1 shows the average percentage DM of each 10-fruit sample collected this month. Each bar includes a range of DM values, where for example, 21% includes all values from 21.0 – 21.99. The bars are stacked with a different colour for each growing region.
Figure 2. Average Shepard DM content by growing region:
More information
For more information about how to test DM view the information available in the Best Practice Resource.
For monthly retail quality results, go to the retail quality section of the BPR:
The project is delivered by Avocados Australia. Please contact AAL Strategy and Projects Consultant Anne Larard for more information: idm@avocado.org.au.
Acknowledgement
The project Monitoring avocado supply chain quality (AV22011) is managed by Avocados Australia, has been funded by Hort Innovation, using the avocado industry research and development levy, with co-investment from Avocados Australia, Applied Horticulture Research, the Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, WA Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development and contributions from the Australian Government.