A new publication is available from the Eastern Broccoli project to help eastern growers choose an appropriate cooling system for their broccoli crop. “Cooling Methods for Broccoli: A Guide for Eastern Growers” is available for download at https://extension.tennessee.edu/publications/Documents/PB1904.pdf .

Broccoli must be cooled soon after harvest to preserve nutrients and extend shelf life.  The new publication explains why cooling is particularly important for broccoli compared to other vegetables and provides information on a variety of cooling methods, including slurry icing, hydrocooling, forced air cooling, hydrovac cooling, and others. Additional information is included on food safety, ice, and energy efficiency. Carl Sams led the effort to produce this resource, which was developed with EBP SCRI funding and published by the University of Tennessee.