Harvesting by Hand

  • Avoid damage which might promotes rapid oxidation and degradation.
  • Equipment required includes:
    • A plastic hand rake (approx $15) or fruit stripper (approx $20).
    • A nylon ground net (approx $50)
    • Fruit storage containers (approx $5 each)
    • Ladder
  • Fruit is dislodged, using a cupped, gloved hand or the rake, into the net doing as little damage to the tree as possible.
  • Fruit damage of 1-2% can be expected.
  • Immediately place fruit in plastic containers, ventilated on all sides.
  • Level of fruit should not exceed 30cm to avoid bruising and allow fruit to breathe.
  • If storing is necessary, do so in a cool dark place.
  • Transport the fruit to the processing plant in these containers.
  • Minimise the handling of the fruit.
  • Fruit should be transformed into oil the same day as harvested - for reasonable quality the time lapse should be no more than 3-4 days.