EFFECTS OF MODERATE SHIPPING ON SALES QUALITY OF SELECTED HEIRLOOM TOMATO VARIETIES
Applied Research
Phillip Tocco
Extension Educator
MSU EXTENSION
JACKSON
Abstract
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\r\n There is continuing interest in sales of heirloom tomato varieties at farmers markets. As growers are increasingly traveling greater distances to these markets, assessment of relative shipping characteristics may be important to variety selection for the growers. The PI assessed the relative handling of 10 heirloom tomato varieties. Each variety was placed in a single layer in cardboard tomato boxes then transported 200 miles over a multiple variety of road surfaces. After treatments were applied and holding both the treatment and control overnight, each tomato was assessed as to its physical damage. Significant postharvest losses were variety dependent, despite there being no effect on the varieties due to the treatment. Varieties with the least postharvest losses included Jaune Flamme`, Stupice, and Chocolate Stripe. Those with the most postharvest losses were Anna Russian, Purple Calabash and Cherokee Purple. The findings suggest certain heirloom varieties may be better suited for farmers market sales over others.
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Poster has NOT been presented at any previous NACAA AM/PIC
This poster is being submitted for judging. It will be displayed at the AM/PIC if not selected as a State winner. The abstract will be published in the proceedings.
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Authors: P.L. Tocco
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Tocco, P. Extension Educator, Michigan State University Extension, Michigan, 49202