Total Quality Management
We have implemented Quality Control points throughout our entire fruit production process. We measure our success and insure the QC initiatives are working by diligently spot-checking the entire program.
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Quality assurance incorporates four methods of inspection: visual, computerized imaging, mechanical and soluble solids measurements.
- Visual Inspections cull external defects and expose internal properties of the fruit.
- Computerized Imaging grades and sorts the apples, improving consistency of the packaged product.
- Mechanical testing is done to check for pressures, which relate to crunch value.
- Soluble solids measurements are taken to catalog the nutrients and sugars within the apple.
- Visual inspections of cartons and pallets of packed product are accomplished to reduce the risk of potential issues upon delivery.
Our QA teams randomly select, from each lot of apples, both pre-packaged and packaged fruit at all points in the process. Detailed records are kept to compare data collected at each point. This allows us to track the vitals of each lot of fruit as it cycles through our system from pre-size to shipment.
"Quality is never an accident; it is always
the result of intelligent effort."
John Ruskin 1819 - 1900
Quality management begins in our orchards. Orchard site selection, sound horticultural practices and selective harvesting techniques provide the foundation for cultivating a quality fruit. 
Preparing the orchard to produce visually appealing products for the consumer requires highly trained and experienced field staff that oversee the orchards throughout the growing and harvesting seasons. Crop estimates, quality assessment reports and other vital information are actively updated throughout the growing season.
Quality management at harvest. Crop development and fruit maturity reports are prepared to coordinate a harvesting schedule. Pre-harvest data is utilized to set harvest dates to insure peak maturity of fruit at pick time. During harvest, data is collected on harvested fruit and entered into our centralized database.
Lot-by-lot assessment at receiving. All aspects of the fruit are evaluated at receiving--appearance, condition, pressures, internal quality, & sugar ratios. This information is utilized to forecast production runs and determine appropriate storage regimens.
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Product assessment at pre-size. During pre-size the fruit is sorted by grade and size. Additional data is collected on pressures, sugars, internal quality and appearance. The data is integrated with the information collected pre- and post-harvest. Each pre-sized bin of fruit is labeled with a bar code containing all information allowing us to track that fruit back to the orchard it came from. The database we create is a comprehensive record of the life of the fruit. It is an aid for tracking historical patterns specific to an orchard and lot.
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Packing line quality assurance. Quality assurance checks are performed during the packaging of customer orders and added to the database information. In addition, line managers inspect the fruit to make sure it meets particular customer specifications.  |
Quality assurance checks prior to shipping. All customer orders are pre-staged and each lot is given a thorough evaluation. Data on variety, grade, size, appearance and condition are collected as a final check and balance.  |
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