Romaine Hearts (Lettuce)
Romaine Hearts is a “cupping” type lettuce that is characterized by its loaf shape and long narrow leaves. Leaf color will vary from pale green and almost white along the rib structure to full green on the ends of the leaves. Optimum product will show high “bleaching” (more white), less dark green. Internal leaves will be yellowish in appearance. During winter and conditionally other times, hearts may show some darker outer leaves.

Storage
» Store immediately in the coldest part of the walk-in cooler. Romaine hearts are very susceptible to damage from heat in the kitchen. Heat damage will cause the leaves to become limp.
» Keep romaine hearts in the original sealed packaging and away from drafts to limit the effects of dehydration from the cooler fans.
» Store away from ethylene producing fruits. Ethylene can cause russet spotting on the mid ribs of the lettuce.

Handling
» Do not drop; romaine lettuce is susceptible to bruising.
» Follow good rotation practices, first shipments received should be used first.
» Avoid placing the case or raw product on counter tops to help prevent the potential for cross contamination.

Preparation
» Prepare as needed. Try not to use product from the previous day.
» Always use sharp knives to prep. Cutting with dull knives cause excessive cell damage and hasten browning.
» Remove wilted, damaged, bruised or discolored leaves and discard before washing.
» Store prepared product in refridgerator.