| This invention is an "in-flight" fresh-cut produce cleaning system that removes undesired substances from the produce's surface. It reduces the amount of chlorine/other sanitizers and water used in the fresh-cut produce cleaning process while quickly and efficiently removing organic exudate, field debris, and soil particulates. Fresh-cut produce is sent down a chute with one or more manifolds. One manifold sprays water or a water/sanitizer mix upwards at the falling produce while another manifold sprays another fluid (typically air) upwards at the falling produce in order to slow the descent of the produce and spin them, increasing the produce's exposure to cleaners. Produce then falls out of the chute onto a substrate. |
