The method of harvest can determine the ex-tent of variability in maturity and physical in-juries, and consequently influence nutritional
composition of fruits and vegetables. Mechanical
injuries such as bruising, surface abrasions, and
cuts can result in accelerated loss of vitamin
C. The incidence and severity of such injuries are
influenced by the method of harvest and handling
operations. Proper management to minimize
physical damage to the commodity is a must
whether harvesting is done by hand or by ma-chine. Strawberries and other berries lost vitamin
C quickly if bruised during harvesting (Ezell et
al., 1947). Mondy and Leja (1986) found a very
large decrease in AA content of the bruised tissue
of potato tubers, while the unbruised halves
appeared to show an increase in their AA con-tent.