Determination of optimal packaging for distribution of eggplants (Solanum melongena) to selected markets in Iloilo City

Abstract

This study aimed to determine the optimal packaging for distribution of eggplants (Solanum melongena) to selected markets in Iloilo City. The packaging materials that were studied included woven bamboo basket (kaing), sack and wooden crate which were commonly used in the market. The performance of the packaging materials was determined in terms of the volume of damages, and thus the following phases were observed: preparation phase, performance testing phase, trundling test phase, and final phase. During performance testing, Distribution Cycle 2 - Specialty Defined Distribution System, User Specified was used based on the distribution situation in the actual environment, and results of the analysis showed that there was no significant difference in the packaging materials being tested. Results on trundling test also showed no significant difference among the packaging materials which means that all of them displayed the same level of protection to the eggplants. The results on performance testing and trundling tests were also compared and these showed significant difference on the data of severely damaged and undamaged eggplants.