Nature and Extent of Losses in Consumer-grade Samples of Blueberries in Greater New York1

Abstract

Consumer samples averaged 15.2% defective fruit of blueberries, ( Vaccinium corymbosum L.) in Greater New York supermarkets during 1978-1980. Fungal decays accounted for two-thirds of the defective fruit; overripe, shrivelled, and mechanically injured berries accounted for much of the remainder. An unusual and possibly new disease of the fruit was noted at the blossom end.