Leaf No Waste: Extending the Shelf-Life and Reducing Waste of Salad Leaves

It is estimated that up to 50% of salad leaves purchased by consumers go to waste. This waste represents significant cost for consumers, retailers and growers; and gives rise to considerable negative environmental impact. To reduce this waste and to ensure sustainable production for Irish growers, cost-effective approaches that build resilience into the supply chain must be explored.

Develop innovative methods of incorporating silicon into the production cycle of fresh salad leaves to extend their shelf life while maintaining quality when packaged thus reducing waste.