Softening-rate factors
The rate of kiwifruit softening is related
to kiwifruit size, storage atmosphere
conditions and orchard factors.
In general, large kiwifruit had a
slower rate of softening than smaller
kiwifruit. Thus, large kiwifruit have
longer bin storage potential than medium
and small kiwifruit.
may vary according to orchard influ-
However, this bin storage perioences. Ethylene-free, cold air storage is
a promising technique when there is a
short delay (less than 8 weeks) in
packaging. CA cold storage (5% COz
and 2% 02)is a possibility for longterm
(more than 8 weeks) storage of
kiwifruit prior to packaging. Both
technologies are commercially feasible.
In both cases, we recommend
monitoring firmness changes during
storage to determine a safe packaging
time. A minimum of 5.0 lbf is suggested
as a critical level to prevent
bruising during packaging and domestic
shipment.