Grape Tomatoes
Red grape tomatoes are identified by their slightly elongated, grape-like shape with shiny, red skin and firm, meaty flesh. Red grape tomatoes are smaller than cherry tomatoes and can range in size from .75" to 1.25” in length. The flavor of a grape tomato is noticeably sweeter than a Roma or cherry tomato.

Storage
» Store protected in the warmest part of the walk-in cooler. Chilling injury (water-soaked blisters, shrivel and mushy, mealy flesh) can occur if held for more than 3 days, un-protected, in a walk-in cooler.
» Temperatures over 80 degrees will cause rapid acceleration of decay.
» Remove all decayed or moldy red grape tomatoes immediately from the case.
» Keep tomatoes and their cases dry away and from moisture sources. Moisture will accelerate mold.
» Proper short term storage is covered in a walk-in cooler, place the red grape tomatoes into a lexan container with lid and plan to use within 48 hours.

Handling
» Follow good rotation practices, first shipments received should be used first.
» Expected shelf life of fully-ripened Red grape tomatoes is 2-3 days.
» Handle with care, do not drop, dump or shake the case, tomatoes will bruise easily.
» Avoid placing the case or raw product on non-sanitized kitchen counter tops to help prevent the potential for cross contamination.

Preparation
» Prepare as needed. Try not to use product from the previous day.
» Select to use the ripest tomatoes first.
» Red grape tomatoes need to be washed in a sanitary rinse, immediately prior to preparation.
» Store prepped product immediately into refrigeration (covered) upon completion of the prep.