Files
Abstract
This study examines the economic feasibility of constructing and operating a value-added fresh-cut produce facility in the Tift County area. The main focus will be on adding value to twelve different vegetable commodities. The industry has successfully added value to these vegetables through further preparation such as removing ends, peeling, chopping, washing, and packaging for consumer convenience. Value-added vegetables are often seen in the produce section of stores placed on a shrink-wrapped styrofoam sheet. This type of packaging increases the value received by the store, wholesaler, and farmer. However, the largest percentage of added value occurs in the packing component. Hence, the Tift County group has requested the Center for Agribusiness and Economic Development (CAED) research the feasibility of operating a value-added facility.