ABSTRACT

A perfect berry growing in the field may not reach the consumer in the same flawless condition. Producing high-quality berry fruit is only the first step. Delivering them to market in premium condition is also essential to command the buyer’s attention. The handling of berries during harvesting, sorting, packing, storage, and transport determines whether the crop will be suitable for fresh market sales. Postharvest handling and storage techniques have been designed to maintain the maximum quality, prolong shelf life, and retain consumer appeal so that the grower will receive the highest market price at the time of sale. The goal of this chapter is to provide information on quality retention in fresh berry fruits through proper postharvest handling and storage.