The core temperature of rockmelons at the time of harvest can be in the mid to high 30's (100ºF). They are usually harvested at the hard ripe stage and can be successfully stored from 15 to 25 days at temperatures of around 5º to 7ºC (41º - 45ºF). It is very important to reduce the field heat from melons as soon as possible following harvest. This is best done by hydro-cooling or forced air cooling, prior to packaging for shipping. It is important that the skin is kept dry to eliminate micro organisms and the on set of mould. Rockmelons continue to ripen following harvest but do not increase in sugar content. Melon losses normally result from skin damage caused through poor handling and also from wet skins encouraging the development of micro-organisms. Rockmelons suffer from chill damage at temperatures below 2ºC (26ºF).
Packaging Method:
More often that not, field heat remains a problem in the packaging and storage of rockmelons. Melons that have not been properly pre-cooled, prior to packaging, should not be placed in Peakfresh carton liners. We recommend that Peakfresh sheet be used as a bottom layer in a carton and as a dividing sheet between layers of melon and also as a top sheet. It is important that the air ventilation holes on the carton remain open. This method of using Peakfresh film will provide a small protection against ethylene damage generated by the melon but also provide a fi lm surface to maintain levels of humidity.
Recommended Post Harvest Temperatures:
2º to 5ºC (36º - 41 ºF) and 90% relative humidity. Pre-cooling as quickly as possible following harvest is very important. Temperature checks should be carried out on the flesh of melon to ensure the removal of field heat.
IMPORTANT. Please read. All recommendations for the use of Peakfresh products are given in good faith and based on proven field experience. Packaging method storage temperatures and humidity levels, transit and destination conditions are factors likely to affect the performance of Peakfresh products and no liability for indirect or consequential damage can be accepted. We recommend that Peakfresh products be trialed under local conditions before introduction to large scale commercial applications.
