Fresh strawberries are highly perishable. Surface injury is common as a result of handling and is the main cause of rapid deterioration and the development of mould and rot. (Grey mould and rhizopus rot). Both of these bacteria can be controlled by careful attention to handling and maintenance of refrigeration levels. Fruit that has been damage in any way should not be packed. Losses from rot can be minimised by prompt pre-cooling of harvested fruit to temperatures below 5ºC. By maintaining a temperature control chain during transit, storage and marketing, will also greatly reduce losses. Berries generally enjoy high levels of carbon dioxide (10% to 30%) as this atmosphere slows down the respiration rate and reduces the activity of decay causing organisms. Dry ice is often used in large pallet configurations to increase the level of available carbon dioxide.
Packaging Method:
Strawberries packed in punnets with good ventilation in bottom of the punnet can be held successfully by placing the punnet in a Peakfresh bag. Another method of packaging berries, in particular strawberries, is to use a Peakfresh pallet cover. When Peakfresh is used in conjunction with proper handling and cooling, a decrease in product deterioration and an increase in shelf life can be achieved. Peakfresh pallet covers keep relative humidity levels high and help maintain proper carbon dioxide levels. Peakfresh pallet cover use helps reduce the moisture condensation when temperatures are not maintained properly. This reduction in moisture condensation helps to greatly reduce the decay process. Peakfresh pallet covers can be removed for product inspection and then reinstalled to continue to protect product. Peakfresh Pallet Cover Installation
Peakfresh pallet covers are easily installed and require little labour and no special equipment. Pallet covers can be simply opened and pulled over the product to be protected. It should be noted that pallet covers should be installed in a manner as to not cover the wood or plastic pallet. If pallets are covered, air flow could be restricted causing improper air flow.
Recommended Post Harvest Temperatures:
0ºC and 90-95% relative humidity. Pre-cooling as quickly as possible following harvest is very important.
IMPORTANT. Please read. All recommendations for the use of Peakfresh products are given in good faith and based on proven field experience. Packaging method storage temperatures and humidity levels, transit and destination conditions are factors likely to affect the performance of Peakfresh products and no liability for indirect or consequential damage can be accepted. We recommend that Peakfresh products be trialed under local conditions before introduction to large scale commercial applications.
