PRODUCE PACKING AND HANDLING APPARATUS AND METHOD

摘要

The present invention is concerned with apparatus and method for packing and handling articles of produce and the like. The apparatus includes a uniquely designed produce basket (10) and rack (30) combination. The basket comprises a framework (12) containing a basket opening (14). A flange (18) is detachably attached to the framework (12) and surrounds the basket opening (14). A pair of lugs (22a, 22b) extend out from the flange (28), and function as handles for carrying the basket or for pulling the flange to detach it from the basket framework (12). An air-permeable barrier (20) is heat sealed to the flange (18) to create a closure to the basket opening (14). The closure is first opened by detaching at least a portion of the basket flange from the framework and is closed by pulling the detached flange portion down around the opening of the framework and engaging a spur.