Australian postharvest technologies for fresh fruits and vegetables

Abstract

General postharvest handling systems and technologies used in Australia for broccoli and other fruits and vegetables from harvest to wholesale market are presented to contrast with those in China. With production areas usually a considerable distance (e.g. 100 to 3500 km) from the major markets in the capital cities, appropriate systems and technologies are needed to minimise losses and maintain product integrity and quality while ensuring food safety. Aspects covered include field harvest (harvest aids, packing), packing houses (handling, grading, sorting, packing, cooling, pallet/unitisation), storage and transport (refrigeration, mixed loads), and wholesale markets.