Shelf-Life Analyzer for Tomato Preserves

Analizzatore Shelf-Life – Conserve di Pomodoro

Stima la durata di conservazione di una conserva di pomodoro in base a data di produzione, tipo e temperatura di stoccaggio.

This application allows you to estimate the shelf-life of canned tomatoes based on three fundamental parameters:

  • Production date
  • Average storage temperature
  • Type of thermal treatment (pasteurized, sterilized, or raw)

It is designed for artisanal laboratories, food companies, and processors that want to quickly assess the stability of their products during storage or quality control.

How it works

The user inputs the requested data, and the app automatically calculates:

  • The estimated duration in months of the canned product.
  • The estimated expiry date.
  • A qualitative assessment of the risk of deterioration based on the storage temperature.

The estimates are derived from average values observed for similar products:

  • Pasteurized: about 12 months at 20 °C
  • Sterilized: about 24 months at 20 °C
  • Raw: about 6 months, subject to rapid changes

The app applies a thermal correction factor, penalizing high temperatures and rewarding controlled cold conditions.

Interpreting the results

  • Reduced duration: storage temperature too high, risk of quality loss or spontaneous fermentation.
  • Normal duration: compliant storage conditions, shelf-life in line with expectations.
  • Extended duration: optimal storage, minimal risk of deterioration.

Usefulness

  • Quick evaluation of the stability of canned batches.
  • Support for planning expiry dates.
  • Monitoring correct storage temperature.
  • Preventive analysis for internal audits or HACCP controls.

Indicative shelf-life table

Type of canned productAverage shelf-life at 20°CTemperature effect
Pasteurized12 monthsReduced by 30% above 30°C
Sterilized24 monthsReduced by 50% above 35°C
Raw6 monthsHigh sensitivity to heat

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the basis for the shelf-life calculation?
The calculation is based on average stability durations for canned tomatoes under standard conditions (20 °C). The value is automatically corrected based on the indicated temperature and the type of canning.

2. Does the app consider pH or water activity?
No, this version is based only on temperature and thermal treatment. It may be possible to extend the model in the future to include chemical-physical parameters.

3. Can I use the app for other vegetable products?
Yes, it can be easily adapted for canned fruit or vegetables by modifying the base shelf-life values in the code.

4. Are the data saved or exported?
No, the results are only calculated and displayed. You can quickly copy them using the “Copy results” button.

5. Does the app work on smartphones and tablets?
Yes. The interface is responsive and can also be used in a production environment.

6. Are the values provided official or just indicative?
They are indicative estimates for internal use, based on average preservation parameters. For official expiry declarations, real stability tests or laboratory analyses are needed.