Packaging is intended to provide safe transport and protection for fruit during handling, while also adding value by presenting the produce attractively to the consumer. Only approved packaging materials should be used. Cartons must have adequate stacking strength and good ventilation properties. Polyethylene bags may be used in some cases to prevent moisture loss and for modified atmosphere packaging to prevent yellowing.
Palletising
- Use approved packaging materials and effective methods to ensure strong pallet loads that can withstand the entire handling chain. This ensures fruit arrives at overseas markets in good condition and with good appearance.
- Be alert to the presence of bark and fungal growth on pallets, as this can lead to rejection.
- Ensure that pallet height does not exceed 2.1 m to avoid damage during shipping. Pallets that are too high also restrict airflow, negatively affecting cooling. (“Hi-cube” pallets shipped in high integral containers may be higher than 2.1 m.) Ensure the pallet is not above the ‘red line’ in the container.
- Complete stacking of packed cartons on pallets as they become available, and place pallets under cool conditions while awaiting inspection.
- Ensure thermocouple wires are positioned in the pallet as prescribed, to measure pulp temperature in the center of the pallet. Note that little cooling will occur unless pallets are under forced air-cooling.
- Due to continued post-harvest respiration (increased respiration, ethylene formation, and temperature rise), the pulp temperature of fruit will increase if the center of the pallet is not adequately cooled.
- Attach the necessary pallet stickers to the pallet to clearly reflect the content of the load. Each pallet must be identified with a unique bar-code sticker to ensure that the pallet load can be traced throughout the handling chain.
- Ensure that straps are always bound firmly, especially prior to handling and shipping.