I’m Malkeet Padda, the founder of Postharvest Consultancies, dedicated to enhancing product quality, reducing losses, and elevating brand value. With over 20 years of experience, I possess a strong research background and in-depth industry knowledge in postharvest quality management. My expertise covers the entire value chain, including the pre- and postharvest factors that influence quality and the latest advancements in technologies and tools to measure and extend shelf-life.

My professional journey began in India, where my passion for agriculture led me to a Master's in Horticulture. I then earned a PhD in Horticulture at Louisiana State University and completed a postdoctoral fellowship at UC Davis, researching strawberry cooling and fruit storage. I spent more than a decade at Driscoll's as Global Lead of Postharvest R&D, working with growers in many countries, standardizing cooling and handling practices, and leading development of AI-based quality tools. I went on to lead postharvest at Plenty (indoor-grown leafy greens), served as VP of Postharvest Operations at Hazel Technologies, running 20+ global trials a year, and as Regional Director of R&D and Regulatory at AgroFresh. I am also the inventor of a patented berry clamshell designed for better airflow, cooling, and drainage (U.S. Patent 9,469,458 B2).

I also founded and ran a 7-acre certified organic berry farm in Gilroy, California, which gave me a farmer's view of how growing practices, harvest timing, and costs affect postharvest quality. My recommendations are practical because I've had to live with them. I've shared my work at numerous conferences and industry panels, and I serve on the Sustainability Council of the International Fresh Produce Association. In my free time, I enjoy playing sports, camping, hiking, and gardening.