Changes in Marketability of Strawberry ‘Maehyang’ for Export as Affected by Harvest Time of the Day and Temperature of Precooling and Storage

Summary

This study investigated how harvest time of day (07:00 or 15:00), precooling temperature (0, 2, or 4°C), and storage temperature (4, 8, or 10°C) affected the marketability and shelf life of strawberry 'Maehyang' destined for export. Morning harvest combined with precooling at 0°C and storage at 4°C consistently maintained superior quality metrics—including lower weight loss, better firmness retention, higher soluble solids content, and reduced grey mould incidence—compared to afternoon harvest or warmer storage conditions over 14 days of storage.

Regional applicability

This research was conducted in South Korea with variety 'Maehyang' under protected horticulture conditions. The findings on temperature-dependent postharvest handling are applicable to UK strawberry producers for export, though variety-specific responses and local cold chain infrastructure would require validation. The study's emphasis on morning harvest timing and rapid precooling aligns with UK commercial export protocols.

Key measures

Weight loss rate (%), firmness, soluble solids content (°Brix), colour values (L* and a*), grey mould incidence (%)

Outcomes reported

The study measured weight loss rate, firmness, soluble solids content, colour, and grey mould incidence in strawberries 'Maehyang' stored under various temperature and precooling conditions over 14 days. Harvest time and storage temperature significantly affected marketability metrics, with morning harvest and 4°C storage after 0°C precooling providing optimal shelf life.

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