Resumen
Instantaneous and non-destructive meter for the taste of fruit by optical radiation, capable of non-destructively measuring the internal taste of fruit based on analysis of the optical spectrum of diffuse reflectance of the fruit through its skin, and modelling of the quality to predict the same in individual fruits. This equipment is characterised in being able to predict the content of flavour components of the fruit, especially total sugars and acids in tomatoes, by the application of a fibre optic probe to the surface of same, and classify each fruit instantaneously on a flavour scale. The equipment consists of: a computer 1, a signal controller 2, a monochromator 3, a light source 4, and fibre optic guides 5. This equipment is applicable to the quality sampling of produce at the centres of production, shipping and receiving of fruit, and at the points of sale to the consumer. <IMAGE>