A new research initiative funded by Hort Innovation and delivered by CQUniversity aims to improve the quality and marketability of Australian-grown capsicums and chillis, helping growers reduce post-harvest losses and increase profitability.
The project, Optimising Capsicum and Chilli Quality (VG24002), will address common fruit defects such as internal rot, silvering, and pitting—problems that often result in rejected consignments and reduced returns. Internal rot alone causes the loss of one in four field-grown capsicums, costing the Australian horticulture industry an estimated A$53 million annually.
Working closely with growers across key production regions, the project will map supply chain performance, assess fruit quality using both digital and traditional techniques, and develop best practice recommendations for production and post-harvest handling.
Hort Innovation CEO Brett Fifield highlighted the importance of this research, saying: "This partnership is a powerful example of how targeted, science-backed research can deliver real-world benefits for growers. By funding this initiative, Hort Innovation is investing in practical solutions that improve vegetable quality, reduce waste, and drive profitability—strengthening the future of capsicum and chilli production, as well as the wider horticulture industry."
The research will examine how harvest maturity, vegetable structure, and cool chain processes influence fruit quality. It will also focus on developing predictive tools to help growers and supply chain partners anticipate retail performance and make informed decisions.
CQUniversity researcher and chief investigator Karli Groves emphasised the grower-led approach of the project. "We're working together with regional grower groups to ensure our findings are grounded in real-world conditions," she said. "Our goal is to empower growers with practical, actionable advice that will enable them to produce high-quality capsicums and chillis in greater volumes."
Bundaberg Fruit and Vegetable Growers CEO Bree Watson expressed pride in partnering with CQUniversity to deliver the grower liaison component. "Our role is to ensure the research remains focused on delivering practical, commercially relevant outcomes for capsicum and chilli producers across Australia," she said.
The project is funded by Hort Innovation through the Vegetable Research and Development Levy, with additional contributions from the Australian Government. Hort Innovation is the grower-owned, not-for-profit research and development corporation for Australian horticulture.
© Hort InnovationFor more information:
Rebecca Degiorgio
Hort Innovation
Tel: +61 (0) 407 068 149
Email: [email protected]
www.horticulture.com.au
