packaging of fruits and vegetables

Packaging of Fruits & Vegetable Products

Introduction

  • Importance of proper packaging in horticultural distribution.

Classification of Horticultural Commodities

Climacteric Fruits

  • Examples include Apple, Banana, Mango, and Tomato.

Non-Climacteric Fruits

  • Examples include Apricot, Blueberry, Cucumber, and Pineapple.

Logistic Chain for Horticultural Commodities

  1. Harvesting (At physiological maturity)

  2. In-field Handling (Pre-cooling, removal of field heat)

  3. Packing House Operations

    • Cleaning

    • Sorting

    • Grading

  4. Packaging

  5. Storage

  6. Transportation

  7. Market (Wholesale and retail markets)

Importance of Packaging

  • Safe delivery of fresh produce to consumers at an affordable price.

  • Various horticultural products require specific packaging based on temperature, humidity, and ventilation needs.

Packaging Requirements

  • Protection against bruising and contamination.

  • Ventilation for respiration.

  • Control of moisture loss.

  • Cost-effective and easy to handle.

Types of Packaging

Consumer Packaging

  • Designed for retail, typically holds 1/2 kg to 2 kg of produce.

Types of Consumer Packaging

  • Flexible Plastic Films: Low material cost, allows for inspection, and can be printed.

  • Net Bags: Suitable for fruits and vegetables, allows ventilation.

  • Tray Packs: Protects fruits from bruising, provides cushioning.

  • Punnets: Clear plastic, promotes visibility and protection of contents.

  • Shrink Wrap: Controls moisture and reduces damages, ideal for various produce.

Bulk Transport Packaging

Types of Bulk Packaging

  1. Wooden Boxes: Durable, limited use due to size and space.

  2. Corrugated Fibreboard Boxes (CFB): Most common, low cost, reusable, and recyclable.

  3. Plastic Crates: Durable, resistant to weather, reusable, stackable.

  4. Sacks: Used for vegetables, cost-effective yet less protective.

Parameters for CFB Boxes

  • Material, dimensions, style, type of flutes, and strength measurements.

Innovative Packaging Technologies

Controlled Atmosphere Packaging (CAP)

  • Alters gaseous environment to extend shelf life.

Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP)

  • Gaseous environment modification to slow respiration and decay of produce.

Edible Coatings and Films

  • Environmentally friendly, extends shelf life, protects produce.

Antimicrobial Packaging

  • Inhibits microbial growth, enhances shelf life.

Smart Packaging

  • Sensors to monitor quality and freshness.

Food Labelling Standards

  • Essential information required on labels includes product name, manufacture details, batch number, and expiration dates.

Conclusion

  • Proper packaging plays a pivotal role in the horticultural supply chain and impacts product quality and consumer satisfaction.