Packaging
Weighing: The first step in the packaging of fresh-cut products is getting the correct amount of
product, into the package. tis is often accomplished by manually weighing each bag of product
and adding or removing product to the desired weight.
Bagging and Sealing: Polymeric film bags and trays for fresh-cut produce come in many sizes,
shapes and fonnulations. Bags may either be purchased already sealed on the side and bottom
or fonned on site from rolls or precut film. Side and bottom sealing films on site requires
substantial capital expenditure for equipment and is used for high volume items. Pre-fonned
bags are slightly more exvensive than rolls of film but require only small capital investment for
sealing machines. When fresh-cut products are
packaged, the atmosphere within tbe package
may be evacuated or flushed with a mixture of
gases to more rapidly establish a desirable
modified atmosphere. TIle correct combination
of packaging material. produce weight and gas
composition within a package are critical
components which must be determined for each
product to maintain product quality and extend