Cost reduction through weight loss minimisation of fresh ginger rhizomes utilising perforated carton liners

In order for growers to satisfy their packed weight obligations when shipping fresh ginger rhizomes to buyers, it is necessary to over pack cartons to allow for weight loss of the product through transpiration. To address this issue, the transpirational weight loss of ginger rhizomes ('Canton') packaged in perforated polymer carton liners (bagged) was investigated over a nine month timeframe. Ten kg 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 over packing allowances were up to 4% weight saving can be achieved over a six day period, depending on the transportation time to final shipping destination. The results were used to calculate cost savings based on the variables of: bag price, shipping time duration, weight of ginger rhizomes shipped and market value.