POSTING FRUIT

Hauraki Plains Gazette, Volume 57, Issue 3946, 21 January 1948, Page 5

POSTING FRUIT

REQUIREMENTS SET OUT JUICE MUST NOT LEAK At this time of the year there is often trouble experienced in post offices from soft fruit having been packed inadequately, so that in transit it has become squashed and the juices have damaged other posted goods. So far this season there has been no such ■trouble from parcels in the Paeroa post office, the postmaster, Mr C. W. Williams, told a representative of the Gazette recently. However, in the past it had been known occasionally, he said. Where it is obvious that the containers are inadequate, the parcels are rejected at the postal counter. If juice from fruit parcels leaked and rained other mail, damages could be claimed from the department. Doubtful packages may be tagged “ post office accepts no risk.” To conform with the postal regulations, soft fruit must not be packed so that the juice can leak out. The most satisfactory method of packing is to place the fruit in a liquid-tight receptacle which should then be packed in a metal, wood, or strong cardboard box, containing sufficient sawdust or other absorbent material to prevent escape of liquid in the event of leakage.