We much prefer the fall when there are hardy winter squash, potatoes, and root crops are easier to handle. This time of the year is very challenging for us at the warehouse and on distribution. Coupled with the heat and humidity, it is a recipe for disaster.
We want to ask for your help in controlling quality. Here are a few things you can do to help.
1) Bring a bag and Transfer. Please do not just jam everything into the plastic liner bag and walk away. I guarantee your peaches will be bruised, berries crushed, etc. I saw this happen so many times last week.
The best practice is to bring multiple reusable bags and/or a rigid tote. Carefully pack and inspect your vegetables as you put them in there. Keep the fruit on top as it is very delicate.
If you happen to see an issue with a product as you're repacking, let us know. We have extra shares on the truck and can swap the product out on the spot.
2) This week we'll be adding blackberries and peaches at the greeter table. This allows us one final quality inspection AND it doesn't end up at the bottom of your bag.
It does create an opportunity for these items to be forgotten. Please check that you receive your blackberries (all totes) and peaches (small vegetarian, vegan, and large vegetarian).
3) Unpack and wash your vegetables when you get home. A little TLC will ensure that everything holds up great.
There are so many challenges this time of the year. The farmers are working hard and so is the warehouse staff, but issues still happen. If you have a problem, please let us know at the greeter table and we can correct it on the spot.
To give you an example of what we are up against...I drove the OCP truck last Thursday. From our warehouse on Woodland to the front door of OCP is about 2 miles. By the time I got there, I had 2 cracked watermelons just from the abundant chuck-holes and bumps on Cleveland streets. Until drones can deliver your groceries, transportation of delicate items will continue to be difficult.
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