Abstract: A fresh produce packing assembly and method for storing and transporting fresh produce. The produce packing assembly includes a hollow container having a liquid collection volume therein defined by a liquid impervious device and a passageway providing for liquid communication between the interior and exterior of the container. Produce pieces are positioned in the container and liquid, usually water, is added to the container for retention in contact with a portion of the produce positioned in the collection volume. The produce packing method includes the steps of placing produce pieces within a package having a liquid collection volume, closing the package to secure the pieces inside, introducing a liquid into the package for accumulation within the collection volume, and draining any liquid exceeding the amount retained by the collection volume from the interior of the container through the passageway.

Abstract: An apparatus for mechanically bagging relatively fragile, leafy vegetables including a bag distending assembly, a sleeve-like inserter, a barrier movably mounted inside the inserter, and a drive assembly coupled to displace the inserter into the bag. The drive assembly includes two pneumatic cylinders so that the barrier can be controlled independently of the inserter and maintained in position inside the bag while the inserter is withdrawn. The inserter carries the leaves inside the bag without substantially compresssing or crushing and bruising the leaves, and the barrier permits inserter withdrawal without leaf damage. A process for inserting fragile leafy vegetables into a bag also is disclosed.

Abstract: An automatic bag tying apparatus for converting an open bag loosely holding a substance into a tight package. A first gripping assembly tightly grips the unsealed bag toward its mouth. A second gripping assembly loosely and slidably grips the unsealed bag to form a neck. A displacement assembly displaces the gripping means relative to each other to cause the gripping means to move apart until the substance stops against the second gripping means. Bag closure applying apparatus then applies a closure to the bag in close proximity to the substance to create the final, closed, tight package. The tying apparatus further includes a guide assembly, and the gripping assemblies open sufficiently wide to allow passage of the bag and product therethrough which enables gravity loading of the apparatus. Tightening of the bag about the product is also controlled by pressure sensing apparatus to prevent over-tensioning of the bag.