PROTOCOL FOR PACKING APPLES IN SMARTBAGS

STEP 1. HARVEST
STEP 2. DIP IN HYDRO COOLER TO REMOVE FIELD HEAT QUICKLY
STEP 3. CHILL FOR 24 HOURS AT 0oC
STEP 4. SORT & GRADE
STEP 5. COOL TO A PULP TEMPERATURE OF ZERO DEGREE CENTIGRADE
STEP 6. REMOVE ALL SURFACE MOISTURE
STEP 7. PACK IN TO A SMARTBAG LINING A WELL-VENTED CARTON
STEP 8. ADD 1 ETHYLENE SACHET AND SEAL SMARTBAG WITH A RUBBER BAND
STEP 9. STACK ON A PALLET - DO NOT SHRINKWRAP
STEP 10. STORE IN COOL ROOM AT ZERO DEGREES CENTIGRADE

NOTES & COMMENTS:
a) For STEPS 7 & 9, PLEASE FOLLOW the LLS packing protocol
b) Optimum Transit Conditions:
Pulp Temperature: 0°C - (except Jonathon at 2°C)
Relative Humidity: 85 to 95%
Freezing Injury Point: -1.5°C
c) Approximate Storage Life:
3 to 9 Months (will vary with different varieties);
Cool immediately after harvest to maintain quality and shelf life.
d) Deterioration Factors:
Rots, Scald; Non compatible produce; Temperature Abuse
e) Harvesting & Storage:
After harvesting, cool promptly to remove field heat. Varieties that benefit from smartbag packaging include Royal Gala, Pink Lady, Fuji, Braeburn, Red Delicious, Lady Williams, Jonagold and Golden Delicious. The preferred climate for apple growing is mild Summer temperatures, a cool Autumn and a cool to cold Winter. These conditions favour the production of high quality, well-coloured apples. To maximise produce outturn, ensure apples are packed in smartbags in well-vented cartons to maximise airflow during transit and storage. Once pulp temperature has been stabilised, pack apples into smartbag and then close. Ensure produce is packed dry.
f) Caution:
Apples generate ethylene and varieties listed are sensitive to ambient ethylene. Add 1 ethylene sachet to each smartbag before closing.

Disclaimer:
As Long Life Solutions Ltd has no control over handling, storage or transportation of fresh produce packed in its product, the company or its nominated agents, make no express or implied guarantees and therefore all risks associated with the product are the responsibility of the user.