Zucchini
Zucchini squash has a cylindrical shape and will range from paler green with yellow speckling to full, dark green, waxy external skin depending upon the seed variety. The firm, creamy white flesh will have a small center seed cavity. Stem ends should be neatly trimmed. Zucchini should have a minimal amount of yellow sides. Avoid over-mature large fruit with hard, bitter seeds.

Storage
» Store immediately covered in a sealed original container in the warmest part of the walk-in cooler. Chilling injury (water-soaked spots, pitting, and accelerated decay) can occur if held for more than 3 days, un-protected, in a walk-in cooler.
» The wax coating will provide minimal protection from dehydration; un-protected product is still extremely susceptible to dehydration.
» Zucchini will yellow from exposure to ethylene gas. Always protect from exposure- short term.
» Do not stack heavy objects on top of Zucchini as they can be easily crushed or bruised.

Handling
» Follow good rotation practices, first shipments received should be used first.
» Zucchini have an expected shelf life of 4-5 days protected and stored properly. Plan to rotate frequently to maintain quality.
» Handle with care, squash can break and bruise easily.

Preparation
» Prepare as needed. Try not to use product from the previous day.
» Use the squash completely, do not store partially used product back into the cooler for extended periods of time. It will brown and dehydrate.
» Zucchini is field grown & packed and need to be washed in a sanitary rinse, immediately prior to preparation.
» Do not soak, summer squash will lose their crispness and flavor soaked in water.
» Store prepped product immediately into refrigeration (covered) upon completion of the prep.