In this article:
Experiments over three seasons are described in which Sultana grapes were harvested by hand, by vertical or by horizontal shake mechanical harvester.
Variation in drying technique during the experiments discussed.
In general, loss of weight in dried mechanically harvested sample amounted to 10% or less and one crown of grade was lost, compared with hand-harvested fruit. Skin was cracked on many berries, however this did not lead to excessive sugar residue on the surface.
It is concluded that good quality light-coloured dried sultanas can be produced by mechanical harvesting if certain measures are observed.
Experiments on the Mechanical Harvesting of Sultanas for Drying
1974, Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture, vol 25, pages 541-552
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