The modern agri-food market is oriented toward continuous innovation of products and production processes as the sole solution for raising the quality standards of the output offered. In the global context currently faced by agri-food industries, the characterization of raw materials—in terms of quality, image, and authenticity—assumes fundamental importance. This ensures that final products are recognized and valued by both the market and the consumer.
The food quality offered by the "Cipolla Rossa di Tropea Calabria IGP" (Red Onion of Tropea Calabria PGI)—registered in the European list of Protected Designations of Origin and Protected Geographical Indications on March 28, 2008, via Commission Regulation (EC) No. 284/2008—must, however, be linked to the quality of services and the innovation of processing techniques necessary to improve the entire supply chain. This reality necessitates a strengthening of the business system and a modification of current production, distribution, and marketing frameworks, which are currently still unsuitable for serving traditional markets.
This project proposal aims to improve and increase the efficiency of the production process, with particular regard to the "spring onion" (cipollotto) product type. It involves the development of a prototype washer-dryer machine for processing and an analysis of impact damage that products may sustain during the post-harvest phase.