After harvesting the fruits are graded according to size shape maturity and freedom from diseases and blemishes The cut surface is treated with a suitable fungicide to control fungal decay
Grading
Size
Weight
A
1500 g and over
B
100 1500 g
C
800 1100 g
D
Less than 800 g
Baby
Approx 550 g
Storage
When fruits are transported for long distances or to be stored for several days refrigerated transport is required to slow down ripening process In tropical areas partially ripe healthy and unbruised pineapple could be stored for almost 20 days when refrigerated at 10130C with RH 8590 Fruits harvested in early stage of ripening are stored at 710C Exposure of pineapples to temperatures below 7C results in chilling injury Controlled atmosphere storage 35 O2 and 58 CO2 delayed senescence and reduced respiration
STORAGE TEMPERATURE
Temperature
7 10 C Half ripe or fully ripe fruits
10 13 C Fully green fruits
Relative Humidity
Storage Period
85 95
35 weeks depending on cultivar and ripening stage
Freezing point
1C
