A methodology for the management of quality in horticultural distribution |
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Authors: | D Schoorl JE Holt |
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Institution: | Redlands Horticultural Research Station, Delancey Street, Ormiston, Queensland 4163, Australia;Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Queensland 4067, Australia |
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Abstract: | This paper presents a comprehensive methodology for the post-harvest management of quality in the distribution of horticultural produce. The methodology consists of three connected subsystems—quality prediction, price prediction and management decision making. The theoretical frameworks developed have been tested experimentally and the methodology is now available as an aid to decision making.The three main forms of deterioration—mechanical damage, physiological deterioration and pathological decay—are modelled and quality out turn is predicted from input quality and environment-event-time histories in each case. Price prediction is based on price-supply-quality relationships developed from studies of prices on wholesale markets. The price of a particular consignment is calculated from a quality index using quality-price functions. A management decision subsystem then evaluates alternative distribution strategies in terms of profit.A case study on water loss in spinach during distribution from harvest to markets shows how the methodology works. |
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