As the CrackSense project enters its final year, we are gathering for the third CrackSense Consortium Meeting, this time in Novi Sad, from February 23–25. With experts from across Europe in attendance, we wanted to take this unique opportunity to organise a panel discussion on fruit cracking, a critical challenge for fruit growers.
Keep reading to discover the full program, the experts, and the key topics that will be addressed during this insightful discussion.
Fruit Cracking Panel Discussion
Future Systems Hub, as a member of the CrackSense consortium, in collaboration with the Faculty of Agriculture at the University of Novi Sad, is organising a panel discussion titled “Fruit Cracking: Can We Predict It and Prevent It?”. The event will take place on Tuesday, February 24, from 11:00 to 13:00, in the ceremonial hall P1 at the Faculty of Agriculture. The entire program will be conducted in English.
This is an opportunity for experts from across Europe involved in the project to gather in Novi Sad, share insights, experiences, and ideas for potential solutions. The event will be opened by the Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture, Prof. Dr Nenad Magazin, followed by a brief presentation of the CrackSense project and its vision. The main part of the program will be a panel discussion with a Q&A session, aimed at both professionals and the wider public.
Panel participants include prominent international and local experts:
- Victor Alchanatis, D.Sc., Research Scientist, Volcani Institute
- Avi Sadka, Ph,D., Professor of Plant Sciences, Volcani Institute
- Dr Andreas Winkler, Scientific Director, LVGA
- Prof. Dr Nenad Magazin, Dean, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Novi Sad
During the discussion, key horticultural and physiological questions will be addressed, such as whether the fundamental mechanisms of fruit cracking are the same across different fruit species, which varieties are more resistant to cracking, and why fruit cracking in Gala apples is a particularly significant issue in Serbia.
Special focus will be given to technologies for monitoring and predicting fruit cracking, as well as to various protection methods – from more expensive infrastructural solutions to approaches that are more accessible to producers. The discussion will also cover strategic and regulatory aspects, including whether the problem is more effectively addressed at the plot or regional level, and how public policies can help reduce losses in fruit production.
Entry to the panel discussion is free, but registration is required via this link. The event is open to producers, researchers, students, institutional representatives, and anyone interested in modern challenges and solutions in fruit growing.
We are looking forward to the consortium meeting and the opportunity to exchange ideas with all partners. Stay updated on the latest news and events by visiting our Newsroom and following us on LinkedIn.
