From Farm to Fork: Irrigation Management and Cold Storage Strategies for the Shelf Life of Seedless Sugrathirtyfive Table Grape Variety

Abstract

Background: Sustainable water management for table grape has the primary goal of optimizing irrigation through Smart Irrigation (SI) approaches, particularly in Mediterranean regions. In addition, extending the shelf life of table grapes through effective cold storage practices is crucial to meet consumer demands year-round. This research examined the journey “from farm to fork” of Sugrathirtyfive variety (Autumn Crisp® brand), exploring the combined effects of Irrigation Volumes (IV), SO2-Generating Pads (SGPs) and Cold Storage Duration (CSD) on the quality of grapes. Methods: Normal Irrigation (NI—based on the farmer’s experience) and SI (100% vine evapotranspiration restored) were supplied in 2023 to Sugrathirtyfive variety white table grape, trained to an overhead tendone system. Yield and quality parameters, berry texture, CIELAB colour coordinates, phenolic content, flavonoids, antioxidant activity and sensory attributes were evaluated on grapes subjected to different times and methods of cold storage. Results: SI grapes showed higher Total Soluble Solids (TSSs) and nutraceutical content, as well as improved CIELAB coordinates with interesting improved berry texture parameters. No differences emerged between single- or dual-release SGPs after 15 days (T1) and 40 days (T2) of CSD. Conclusions: Under our cold storage conditions (3 °C, 85% U.R.), 40 days represent the maximum temporal limit for the cold storage of Sugrathirtyfive variety, regardless of IV, provided they are refrigerated with the aid of SGPs.