In connection with the problem of heating in waxed cartons,

 a number of respondents noted that precooling of Florida celery did

 not seem as thorough nor uniform as from California. Even some

 who preferred crates stated that improved precooling of Florida

 celery in waxed cartons would remove their primary objection to

 the carton.

 Other criticisms of cartons were that they crushed more and had

 more shipping damage than crates, However, one Detroit retailer

 stated that crates were mishandled more than cartons, resulting in

 more product damage as well as some damage to the crate, Also, one

 Philadelphia retailer felt that cartons from Florida shippers crushed

 somewhat more than those from California.

 When asked if the size and weight of Florida celery stalk con-

 tainers were satisfactory, more than half of those interviewed said

 size and weight of cartons and crates were satisfactory. Several

 observations concerning container weight are interesting. Four of

 those interviewed--one large and two medium-volume retailers and one

 large, full-service wholesaler--suggested that 40 to 45 pounds was

 about as heavy as containers should be in the future. Union restric-

 tions on lifting and a growing number of young people and women in

 retail produce departments were the reasons given for suggesting

 lighter-weight containers. One retailer and one wholesaler, not

 included in the four mentioned above, also stated that containers for

 celery stalks shorter than the standard 14-15 inches would be lighter

 and more desirable. Interestingly enough, one wholesaler suggested

a larger container, so more product could be shipped.