Good quality pineapples should be heavy for their size, well shaped, and fresh looking with dark green crown leaves. Shells should be dry and crisp and range in color from greenish-brown to golden brown. Color of shell does not indicate ripeness or sugar content. Shell color is determined by the amount of sun exposure during growing. Pineapples with greenish-brown shells may be just as ripe and sweet as those with golden brown shells. Contrary to popular belief, pineapples do not ripen after harvesting. They are picked when fully ripe. A ripe pineapple should have a distinctive aroma and a soluble solids content of 12% or higher.
Storing and Handling
Temperature/humidity recommendations for short-term
storage of seven days or less:
45-50 degrees F/7-10 degrees C
85-95% relative humidity
Copyright & Disclaimer
PMA Fresh Produce Manual
Handling Tips
Although pineapples have a tough looking exterior, they can bruise easily. Handle fruit with care.
Troubleshooting
Dull appearance; water-soaked flesh; dark core; rapid decay when removed from storage:
These are indications of chill injury. To prevent chill injury, do not store pineapples below 45 degrees F/7 degrees C.
Wet boxes:
This may be an indication of overripe or damaged fruit. Carefully inspect containers immediately after receiving. Handle pineapples with care; do not drop containers on the floor.
NOTE: Not all pineapples are graded. Ungraded pineapples are called “unclassified.” Differences between grades are based primarily on external appearance.
Sizes
6-, 8-, 10-, 12-, and 14-count per 40-lb carton
NOTE: Counts 8 to 14 are most predominant for retail; counts 12 and 14 are typically ordered for foodservice.
Shippers
FOODSOURCE, INC.
P.O. Box 5840, McAllen, TX 78502
721 E. Schunior, Edinburg, TX 78539
PHONE # - 956-292-7900
FAX# - 956-292-7980
CONTACT - Lee Moyer, Vice President, Sales
WEB SITE - www.buyfoodsource.com
E-MAIL - lmoyer@foodsourcetx.com
FONTERA PRODUCE, LTD.
P.O. Box 2019, Edinburg, TX 78540-2019
1321 Frontera Rd., Edinburg, TX 78540-2019
PHONE # - 956-381-5701
FAX # - 956-381-5706
CONTACT - Will Steele, Vice President
WEB SITE - fronteraproduce.com
E-MAIL - will@fronteraproduce.com
