|
-
Avoid damage which might promotes rapid oxidation and degradation.
-
Equipment required includes:
-
A plastic hand rake (approx $15) or fruit stripper (approx $20).
-
A nylon ground net (approx $50)
-
Fruit storage containers (approx $5 each)
-
Ladder
-
Fruit is dislodged, using a cupped, gloved hand or the rake, into the net doing as little damage to the tree as possible.
-
Fruit damage of 1-2% can be expected.
-
Immediately place fruit in plastic containers, ventilated on all sides.
-
Level of fruit should not exceed 30cm to avoid bruising and allow fruit to breathe.
-
If storing is necessary, do so in a cool dark place.
-
Transport the fruit to the processing plant in these containers.
-
Minimise the handling of the fruit.
-
Fruit should be transformed into oil the same day as harvested - for reasonable quality the time lapse should be no more than 3-4 days.
-
Indicative rates for hand-harvesting are 60c/kg or $600/tonne.
|
|
