WHO'S RESPONSIBLE FOR ASPARAGUS QUALITY?

The grower has first responsibility to plant varieties adapted to weather and disease conditions. He, or contractors, must correctly prepare fields for harvest, avoid damage during harvest and packing, and maintain pulp temperatures at 2–4 C. Rapid transport to the broker/buyer, while maintaining desired temperature and humidity, is essential and, on arrival, aggressive sales strategies are necessary to move the product to retailers to minimize storage time. Shippers have responsibility to reduce time in transit by coordinating with buyers. Proper temperatures, atmospheres and care in loading will minimize damage.

Retailers have the final responsibility for asparagus quality. Retailers should price attractively to move the product expediently thereby reducing storage time. Retail displays should contain only the estimated quantity necessary for rapid sale to promote quick turnover and restocking from cold storage. Customers should be advised to purchase quantities for immediate consumption and to refrigerate any unused portion after washing in chlorinated water. Quality is, therefore, the responsibility of each individual associated with asparagus and each is dependent on the other to insure acceptable product arrival.

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