General Guidelines for Using Plastic Crates in the Post-Harvest Handling and Transportation of Fresh Bananas

Plastic crates are widely used for handling and transporting fresh bananas due to their durability, stackability, and ability to protect the fruit from damage. Below are general guidelines to ensure quality fresh bananas are delivered to the market:

 

1. Selection of Plastic Crates

• Use ventilated plastic crates to allow proper airflow, which helps prevent heat buildup and reduces the risk of post-harvest diseases.
• Ensure crates are durable, smooth, and free of sharp edges to avoid bruising or cutting the bananas.
• Choose crates of an appropriate size to minimize over-packing or underutilization of space.

 

2. Pre-Harvest Preparation

• Coordinate harvesting and transportation schedules to minimize the time bananas spend between harvest and market delivery.
• Ensure crates are clean and sanitized before use to prevent contamination or the spread of diseases like anthracnose or crown rot.

 

3. Harvesting

• Harvest bananas at the correct maturity stage depending on the distance to the market and expected ripening time.
• Handle bananas gently during detachment from the plant to prevent mechanical damage.
• Avoid exposing bananas to direct sunlight after harvest; use a shaded area for temporary storage.

 

4. Packing into Plastic Crates

• Arrange bananas horizontally in layers, ensuring minimal compression of the fruit to avoid bruising.
• Use banana separators, padding, or liners (e.g., foam or banana leaves) between layers if necessary to reduce friction and pressure.
• Avoid overloading the crates to maintain the structural integrity of the fruit.

 

5. Transportation

• Stack crates carefully to avoid excessive weight on lower layers. Use stackable crates designed for secure interlocking.
• Maintain proper ventilation and temperature control in the transport vehicle (preferably between 13–15°C) to slow ripening and prevent spoilage.
• Use non-slip mats or securing straps in the transport vehicle to prevent crates from shifting during transit.

 

6. Storage

• Store crates in cool, dry, and well-ventilated areas before and during transit.
• Avoid placing crates directly on the ground; use pallets or racks to improve airflow and hygiene.
• Protect the crates from exposure to water or high humidity, which could accelerate spoilage.

 

7. Maintenance of Plastic Crates

• Regularly inspect crates for cracks, dirt, or contamination and replace damaged crates to avoid fruit injuries or hygiene issues.
• Wash and sanitize crates after each use, especially if they have been exposed to decayed or infected bananas.

 

By adhering to these guidelines, the use of plastic crates can significantly improve the efficiency of the banana supply chain while ensuring the delivery of high-quality, fresh bananas to the market.

Prepared By

Dr. Mahinda Herath