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Abstract

A method for processing headed varieties of vegetables such as iceberg lettuce so as to remove all dirt, insects, and other debris from the vegetable and to allow shipping and transport of the vegetable while preserving the characteristics and versatility of the vegetable in a fresh form. The method comprises harvesting (10) the vegetable at or near maturity and then coring the vegetable (12). Latex is removed from cut surfaces (13) and a solubilized edible coating may be applied (14). A plurality of cored and separated leaves are made by separation of the leaves using a flow of water (15). The cored and separated leaves are then washed multiple times with each successive wash done using successively reduced water temperature (16). The plurality of separated leaves are maintained in a cool environment, preferably from 32 to 45 degrees F. The separated leaves are then packaged (22) in a permeable film or membrane sealed container allowing for the interchange of atmospheric gasses and gasses from the interior of the film or container, and stored (24) at a temperature which is equal to or less than the lowest temperature achieved in the preceding steps.

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First Claim