Good quality carrots should be well shaped with firm, smooth exteriors. Color should be vibrant orange to
orange-red. For best quality, tops should be closely trimmed since they tend to decay rapidly. Avoid flabby, soft, or wilted carrots or product that shows any mildew, decay, growth cracks, or splits.
Storing and Handling
Temperature/humidity recommendations for short-term
storage of seven days or less:
32-36 degrees F/0-2 degrees C
90-98% relative humidity
Copyright & Disclaimer
PMA Fresh Produce Manual
Troubleshooting
Bitter flavor:
Carrots may acquire a bitter flavor if exposed to ethylene gas. Store carrots away from ethylene-producing fruits and ripening rooms.
Wilting:
Carrots may wilt if stored in an area with low humidity. Bunched carrots are more perishable than topped carrots. Maintain a humidity level of 90-98% for best quality.
Decay; sprouting:
Carrots may begin to decay or sprout if stored at high temperatures. For best quality, maintain storage temperature of 32-36 degrees F/0-2 degrees C.
Cracks; flabby or discolored skin:
These are indications of freeze damage. To prevent freeze damage, do not store carrots below 30 degrees F/-1 degree C.
Yellow tips; soft spots:
These are signs of age and will result in a poor-flavored product. For best quality, inspect carrots carefully upon arrival.
Variety/Type Descriptions
Although there are many varieties of carrots, they are generally sold according to size. Carrots are characterized by a firm, smooth exterior, orange to orange red color, and crunchy texture.
Common Packaging
1-, 2-, 5-, 10-, 25-, and 50-lb. bags
holding medium or jumbo carrots
5-lb. bags holding baby-cut carrots
Grades
U.S. Extra No. 1
U.S. No. 1
U.S. No. 1 Jumbo
U.S. No. 2
Storing Tips
Keep carrots away from ethylene producing fruits and ripening rooms. Carrots may also absorb odors; keep away from foods with strong odors.
Sizes
Medium
Jumbo
Baby-cut (peeled and cut to size)
Shippers
J & D PRODUCE, INC.
P.O. Box 1548, Edinburg, TX 78540
7310 N. Expressway 281, Edinburg, TX 78541
PHONE # - 956-380-0353
FAX # - 956-380-0325
CONTACT - James V. Bassetti, President & Sales
WEB SITE - www.littlebearproduce.com
E-MAIL - lrchandler@littlebearproduce.com
RIO FRESH, INC.
P.O. Box 1619, San Juan, TX 78589
6 Mi. S. Stewart Road, San Juan, TX 78589
PHONE # - 956-787-0023
FAX # - 956-787-0503
CONTACT - Bill Morley, President & Gen. Mgr.
WEB SITE - www.riofresh.com
E-MAIL - larry@riofresh.com
