APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR WASHING THE CORED AREAS OF LETTUCE HEADS DURING HARVEST

摘要

An apparatus and method for washing a plurality of cored lettuce heads as they are harvested in the field is disclosed. The apparatus incorporates a multisegment hinged conveyer forming a loop, at least one support platform having an opening, at least one lettuce head guide connected to the support platform and an aqueous solution spraying system. Workers harvest lettuce heads, core the lettuce heads and then place them on the lettuce head guides which are moving along the conveyer. The lettuce heads are conveyed to as aqueous solution spraying system which washes the cored areas of the lettuce heads. The lettuce heads are then removed from the conveyer into a produce bin.