Sweet Basil
Sweet or Italian basil is identified by large, elongated and slightly crinkled leaves and a light green stem and flower buds. Leaf color can range from pale green to deep dark green depending upon the variety.

Storage
» Store immediately covered in a sealed original container, in the warmest part of the walk-in cooler. Chilling injury can occur (blackening, shriveling and wilting) from storing unprotected sweet basil past 3 days in the walk-in.
» Store in the original sealed bag away from drafts from the cooler fan. Sweet basil is extremely susceptible to dehydration.
» Sweet basil will yellow from ethylene exposure.
» For maximum shelf life & quality. Keep in a sealed lexan or thick plastic container in the warmest area of the cooler.

Handling
» Follow Good Rotation practices, first shipments received should be used first.
» Handle carefully, do not crush, sweet basil will bruise.
» Sweet Basil has an expected short shelf life (2-3 days). Plan to purchase frequently to maintain quality.

Preparation
» Prep fresh daily as needed. Try not to carry over prepped raw product from the previous day.
» Avoid placing the case or raw product on non-sanitized kitchen counter tops to help prevent the potential for cross contamination.
» Wash thoroughly, sweet basil is generally field packed and not pre-washed.
» Remove or cut away any decayed leaves before prep.
» Store prepared product in refridgerator.