USE OF INSULATED CONTAINERS FOR THE COOL DISTRIBUTION OF MUSHROOMS

ISHS Acta Horticulturae 244: IV International Symposium on Quality of Vegetables

USE OF INSULATED CONTAINERS FOR THE COOL DISTRIBUTION OF MUSHROOMS

Authors:

J.P. Partis, R. Noble

Abstract:
Experiments were carried out at Luddington Experimental Horticulture Station to investigate the use of insulated containers for the cool distribution of fresh mushrooms into the wholesale market. The objective was to improve the quality of produce being distributed through the wholesale markets where cool chain handling at present is either non-existent or finishes short of the final destination. The insulated container was assessed under two sets of conditions i) from point of harvest until final delivery to the retail outlet or ii) after cooling until final delivery. Both systems were compared with a standard cool chain distribution system using open pallets transported on a refrigerated lorry.

In practice the management of the insulated containers proved straightforward. Temperature and humidity levels were an improvement over the standard treatment and the produce arrived at the retail display stage in better condition.

The system can be recommended for use

When high ambient temperatures are encountered between harvest and distribution
When small unit loads are required to be delivered to a number of outlets
When the standard cool chain is not continued into the retail outlet
When mixed loads of produce need to be distributed under differing temperature regimes.

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