The cauliflower is one of the world’s healthiest food. It is low in calories but rich in nutrients making it popular among weight-watchers and health buffs. Health benefits of this cruciferous vegetable include cancer prevention, a good source of antioxidants, anti-inflammatory and cardiovascular support.
The vegetable is also popular among backyard gardeners because it is quite easy to grow. It may be grown and harvested year-round, but it is by nature a cool-weather crop. If you have just harvested your cauliflower and thinking of selling or sharing them to friends elsewhere, here are some packing and shipping tips to ensure that the vegetables arrive in excellent condition.
Include a few leaves when cutting the cauliflower head from the plant. The leaves will protect the head and will keep it fresh longer. Make sure to remove any brown spots on the florets or yellowing leaves as these can be breeding grounds for bacteria that can cause rotting and spoilage.
Do not wash the cauliflower heads! Keep the vegetables dry as much as possible by wiping any moisture with paper towels. Dry and clean the cut end of the stem to prevent microorganisms from developing.
Individually place each cauliflower head in a paper or plastic bag. Place the wrapped heads in a sturdy cardboard box with a layer of bubble wrap, packing peanuts or crumpled paper on the bottom. Arrange the heads so that there are spaces between them. Fill these spaces with more packing materials until the box is full so the cauliflower heads will not roll around or collide with each other or bump into the side of the box.
When shipping during hot or humid weather, it is a good idea to pack the vegetables in an insulated box along with several cold packs to ensure that they remain fresh.
Address and label the package with “Perishable” and “Handle With Care.” Provide the correct and exact recipient name and address to avoid delays in delivery.
Let the recipient about the incoming package to make sure that someone is around to receive it upon delivery and prevent the package from being left outside in the sun.