celery quality during the past several seasons has done much to build

a better image. But, this improved image can be lost quickly if quality

is not rigorously maintained.

 As for the pack, there are no serious shortcomings for Florida's

celery compared to other growing areas. A few shippers have problems,

but the Florida celery industry as a whole is doing a relatively good

packing job. However, it is important to note the general trends.

There is a shifting preference, particularly among retailers, for the

waxed carton. Its use will require thorough pre-cooling and a monitor-

ing to insure that cartons are arriving at their destinations in satis-

factory condition. Another emerging preference is for somewhat lighter

containers, preferably no more than 40 to 45 pounds. This suggestion

was made by several retailers judged to be innovators. They reasoned

that the smaller container would not only be easier for personnel to lift,

but it would also reduce product damage caused by rough handling of heavy

containers.

 Sleeving is apparently one of the most practical package types in

which to retail celery. Labor costs at the store level are reduced

through less preparation time, less clean up, and less re-working.

Sleeving can probably be done more efficiently at the packing house level

than at retail. Most retailers do not know what sleeping at the store

level costs, but with rapidly escalating labor costs, it is important for

them to know. The Florida celery industry is in a better position to

take advantage of the efficiencies gained through sleeping than the

California celery industry because of shorter transit time; Florida has

a minimum advantage of approximately two days. With proper handling,