How to Keep Homegrown Produce Fresh for Market

Step-by-Step Guide

1. 1

   Step 1: Pick your produce at the last minute.

   The freshest will be that which is picked the latest.
2. 2

   Step 2: Wash off any mud or dirt.

   Muddiness will detract from the appeal of the produce in the eyes of many consumers.
   
   Don't dig or scrape the fruit, however; gently wash off what will come off easily. , All fresh produce appreciates being kept cool and if you have soft fruits, this is especially important.
   
   Keep covered from insects. , Make sure to provide buffers between your fragile produce and the knocks and bumps of transportation.
   
   Keep items in plastic bags, crates, small plastic punnets etc. as needed. , If the climate is hot and the turnover is not fast, refrigeration is essential.
   
   Investing in suitable equipment can be a long-term savings if you plan on selling fresh produce frequently in a hot climate.
   
   If you don't have access to electrical refrigeration, innovate with ice chests or a pot-in-pot refrigeration system. , Keeping the roots or stems in water helps to keep such produce fresh. , If you at a market stall in hot weather, it is worth investing in a canopy to give shade over your produce during the day.
   
   If you are indoors, you might want to consider the backdrop that you use to highlight your produce
   - keep it simple, clean and bright to encourage customers to look at your produce.
3. 3

   Step 3: Keep cool and covered.

4. 4

   Step 4: Put fragile produce into appropriate containers.

5. 5

   Step 5: Use refrigeration.

6. 6

   Step 6: Keep herbs and green vegetables standing in water.

7. 7

   Step 7: Consider how you display your fresh produce.

Detailed Guide

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