Mathematical modeling of tomato ripening: Formulations, validation, and postharvest decision support — A review

Tomato ripening integrates color development, texture softening, respiration, and ethylene dynamics, under postharvest conditions. This review consolidates mathematical and simulation models that describe quality change over time using explicit variables, parameters, and equations. We organize five model families for tomato ripening: (i) empirical sigmoids; (ii) temperature-dependent kinetics (Arrhenius/Q 10 , thermal-time); (iii) mechanistic ODE/PDE mass-balance; (iv) survival/time-to-event endpoints; and (v) hybrid/state-space formulations. We align observables (e.g., CIE a*, firmness, headspace gases), with estimation targets, and outline leakage-safe validation (grouped splits, external tests), uncertainty reporting, and reproducible practices. Key contributions include a practitioner-oriented Model-Choice Matrix that links objectives and data constraints to appropriate model classes, and consolidated guidance on sensitivity analysis, calibration and transportability to supports postharvest decision support across cultivars, seasons, and packaging regimes. The result is a structured roadmap for selecting, validating, and reporting ripening models to enable reliable deployment in postharvest operations and embedded into emerging digital decision support systems.