Choose clean, well-shaped pumpkins with no cracks in the rind. Avoid pumpkins with soft spots or decay.
Storing and Handling
Temperature/humidity recommendations for short-term
storage of seven days or less:
60-65 degrees F/16-18 degrees C
85-95% relative humidity
Copyright & Disclaimer
PMA Fresh Produce Manual
Troubleshooting
Decay:
Pumpkins are susceptible to chill injury and will decay if stored at low temperatures. Often the decay will not be apparent until after pumpkins are removed from storage. To prevent chill injury, do not store pumpkins below 50 degrees F/10 degrees C. High humidity may also promote decay. For short-term storage of 7 days or less, store pumpkins at 60-65 degrees F/16-18 degrees C with a humidity level of 85-95%. For longer storage, reduce humidity level to 65-70%.
Weight loss; pulp deterioration:
Storing pumpkins in an area with very low humidity may cause weight loss or pulp deterioration. For best quality, keep humidity level at 65-70% for long-term storage and 85-95% for short-term storage.
Flesh softening:
Pumpkins are sensitive to ethylene; exposure to the gas may cause softening of the flesh. For best quality, keep pumpkins away from ethylene producing fruits and ripening rooms.
Variety/Type Descriptions
Depending on variety, pumpkins range in shape and size from tiny and squat to large and round. Weights range from less than 1 lb. to 25 lbs. each. Although most pumpkins are used for decorative purposes, the pulp may be cooked like hard-shell squash and used for pies.
Common Packaging
25-lb. _-bushel cartons or crates
50-lb. cartons, crates or sacks
Bulk bins
Grades
U.S. No. 1
U.S. No. 2
Differences between grades are based primarily on external appearance.
Storing Tips
Keep pumpkins away from ethylene producing fruits and ripening rooms. For long-term storage (more than 7 days), reduce humidity level to 65-70%. Maintain adequate air circulation during storage.
Shippers
CARGIL PRODUCE CO.
P.O. Box 1146, Uvalde, TX 78802
6 Miles South Hwy. 117, Uvalde, TX 78802
PHONE # - 830-278-5616
FAX # - 830-278-4935
CONTACT - Steve A. Cargil, Gen. Mgr.
E-MAIL - stevec@cargilfarmsproduce.com
