Completed project
Developing a commercial shelf life test for macadamias (MC12002)
Publication date: July 15, 2015
Delivery Partner: Cropwatch Independent Laboratories
A long-term goal of the macadamia industry has been to develop a test to predict the shelf life and quality of macadamia kernel. This project investigated electronic noses, which are widely used by major food and drink companies to measure and monitor product quality. They require minimal sample preparation and can objectively, safely and quickly characterise the global taste and odour profiles of ingredients or formulations.
The project used a prototype of an ‘electronic nose’ instrument, OdourScan, to measure the concentration of hexanal in the headspace of packaged macadamia nuts, which acts as a predictor of shelf life.
Simple, fast and economical protocols were developed, with each test taking less than 15 minutes, and providing a prediction in seven to 14 days.
Processing companies can now use rapid ageing and hexanal concentrations as part of their quality control program, and the outcome benefits other sectors of the industry through…
The project resulted in a commercially viable, cost effective, rapid test for raw and roasted kernel.
This project was a strategic levy investment in the Hort Innovation Macadamia Fund
© 2026 Horticulture Innovation Australia Limited.
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