CHERRIES
There are two objectives in the packaging of cherries. The first is to
maintain green stems and the second is to maintain a high degree
of natural bloom on the surface of the fruit. There are a number of
different types of boxes used in Australia for the packaging of
cherries ranging from 5kg to 20kg in weight. Various boxes are also
designed for retail presentation and include printed “cameo” opening
for display.
Recommended Post Harvest Temperatures
It is essential that cherries be pre-cooled to around 0ºC (32ºF)
immediately following harvest.
Post Harvest Humidity 90-95%
Packaging Method:
We recommend that pre-cooled cherries be packaged using
PEAKfresh carton liners. It is important that the cherries be pre-
cooled to around 0ºC (32ºF) before packaging. The top of the carton
liner to be folded closed before the outer carton is applied. An
alternative method of packing cherries is usingPEAKfresh sheets.
Our recommended use of PEAKfresh sheet that is cut to fit the exact
size of the box opening is to place one sheet in the bottom of the
box, a further sheet in the middle of the box dividing the fruit into two
layers, and a third sheet on the top of the box. Where a “cameo” box
top is used, it is a very nice presentation to use two sheets of
PEAKfresh overlapped at the center opening of the “cameo” which
are pulled apart to provide an attractive green plastic surround on
the edge of the “cameo” framing the stored cherries.This method of
packaging using PEAKfresh maintains a high degree of humidity,
avoiding moisture loss from the fruit and maintaining green stems.
Cherries packed using this method have produced storage periods
of in excess of six weeks. Otherwise, PEAKfresh carton liners are
strongly recommended.
Storage Temperatures:
Around 0ºC (32ºF). As soon as cases of cherries are removed from
cold storage, and particularly where a carton liner has been used,
the carton liner should be opened at the top.
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.