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Plants for Human Health Institute

Producer Resources

Pack ‘N Cool

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N.C. State University’s Plants for Human Health Institute (PHHI) has developed a new mobile cooling unit for farmers. The five-by-eight-feet refrigerated trailer – called the “Pack ‘N Cool” – is designed to keep fruits and vegetables at ideal temperatures during transport to and from farmers markets or as they’re harvested in farm fields. The Pack ‘N Cool unit combines the mobility of a cargo trailer with the refrigeration capabilities of a commercial cooler. The model unit, including a new cargo trailer, cost around $3,400 to construct. For more information, visit the links below or contact Dr. Penelope Perkins-Veazie, 704-250-5419.

Postharvest Video Series (Strawberries)

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Dr. Penelope Perkins-Veazie, postharvest physiologist at the Plants for Human Health Institute, delivers postharvest education through a three-part video series funded by the National Strawberry Sustainability Initiative. She discusses the pros and cons of various options for storing and packaging fresh produce (specifically strawberries) for market; the features of the Pack ‘N Cool, a mobile refrigerated trailer which makes storage and transport of fresh produce at recommended temperatures more efficient and cost-effective; and the components of a postharvest kit for growers and researchers to gauge fresh produce quality in the field before it goes to market.

Understanding Blueberry Breeding

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N.C. State University is committed to improving the blueberry for nutritional benefits and commercial production. However, there are several challenges to blueberry breeding. This presentation, prepared by a graduate student at the Plants for Human Health Institute, will explain those natural barriers and share how the blueberry genome and certain genomic tools allow improved efficiency in breeding efforts.