A classification system for impact-related defects in potato tubers

The type of tuber bruise that occurs for a given severity of impact indicat es the condition of that tuber in relation to its impact sensitivity. This article describes a system for classifying such bruises. Such information i s important because sensitive tubers can be re-conditioned (e.g., temperatu re and/or hydration can be adjusted) to reduce risk of bruising during harv esting and handling. Each class of bruise is described, illustrated, and re lated to tuber condition. The literature review illustrates the inadequacie s of previous bruise evaluation systems in relating bruise type to tuber co ndition. Growers, processors, storage operators and fresh packers can use t his system to make informed decisions on adjusting modifiable factors such as temperature, hydration level, and impact velocity to reduce impact-relat ed defects during harvesting and handling of potatoes.