Cost reduction through weight loss minimisation of fresh ginger rhizomes

In order for growers to satisfy their packed weight obligations when shipping fresh ginger rhizomes to buyers, it is necessary for them to overpack cartons to allow for weight loss of the product through transpiration. To address this issue, the transpirational weight loss of ginger rhizomes packaged in perforated polymer carton liners (bags) was investigated over a 9 month timeframe. 10kg ginger samples were stored for 2-3 week periods (90%RH at 14?C) in both bagged and un-bagged conditions. Various ?perforation to bag surface area? proportions were evaluated on a daily basis, with all bagged samples showing reduced weight loss rates in comparison to the un-bagged samples. By understanding and applying these weight loss rates, growers can reduce their overpacking allowances (up to 4% weight saving over a 6 day period) depending on the transportation time to final shipping destination. A spreadsheet has been developed to calculate cost savings based on the variables of: bag price, shipping time duration, weight of ginger rhizomes shipped and market value. SourcesCOST REDUCTION THROUGH WEIGHT LOSS MINIMISATION OF FRESH GINGER RHIZOMES UTILISING PERFORATED CARTON LINERS Harkness, GJ1Gil.Harkness@dsdip.qld.gov.au1Department of State Development, Infrastructure and Planning, Maroochydore, AustraliaIHC 2014, International Horticulture Congress, 17-22 August 2014, Brisbane,http://www.ihc2014.org/Picture by www.webconsultas.com