MUSHROOM CARE HINTS

This is an example of mushrooms that have been exposed to heat and mis-handling in transit. Heat causes the mushroom stalk to elongate and the mushroom to continue to grow. This causes the shape of the mushroom to distort and the colour to change from white to a brown colour.

Please Note the change in colour and the elongation of stalks caused by heat. Handled correctly and kept at temperatures of between 2 - 5 deg. Celcius pre-packs have a shelf life of 2 weeks or longer. The stretch wrap over the product helps to keep the mushrooms in place thus causing less damage in transit.

Like the pre-packs the bulk product also suffers from mis-handling and heat. Handled correctly this product has a shelf life almost as good as as the pre-pack but suffers more in transit due to movement of mushrooms in the box .

Handled correctly, and maintained at a temperature of between 2-50C, mushrooms will arrive at their destination in optimum conditions.

The bulk product also benefits from correct handling

CORRECT HANDLING OF MUSHROOMS

• Transport and store at 2 deg. Celcius
• Precool and keep cool
• Minimise time out of cool room
• Maximise shade
• Avoid direct sunlight
• Maintain store humidity minimise water loss
• But, never spray with water
• Stack on top of load, avoid bruising
• Cushion in transit
• Handle gently
• Avoid unnecessary handling
• Keep in cool-room when not trading

Of all the products you handle, mushrooms are one of the most difficult and delicate. Help us to get quality product to the consumer. Quality only comes with care throughout the distribution chain. Conditions will not always be ideal, but whenever possible, keep cool, minimise handling and avoid Heat Direct draughts Rough treatment With your help the journey from grower to consumer can be a smooth one, and remember QUALITY MUSHROOMS MAKE MONEY FOR EVERYONE................

The staff at White Prince would be happy to discuss any mushroom handling concern you may have. Please contact us with any questions or concerns on:

• Ph: +61 2 9627 4799
• Fax: +61 2 9627 4099
• Email: prince@pnc.com.au