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Abstract
Excerpts from the report Preface: This study is part of a broad program of research by the Agricultural Marketing Service to improve the design and performance of transportation equipment used in the movement of agricultural products. The overall objectives are to improve the marketing of farm products and to hold down its costs. Time-temperature tolerance tests conducted by the Agricultural Research Service, U. S. Department of Agriculture, have shown what happens to original flavor, color, texture, and vitamin content when frozen food is held at 10° F., 20° F., or higher. These tests have led to a proposal by the Association of Food and Drug Officials of a zero-degree requirement for frozen food. Previous studies by industry and the U. S. Department of Agriculture indicate that many refrigerated trailers now in service cannot maintain the required 0° F. temperature throughout the load. This report covers one of several tests to determine the best and most practical combination of equipment and method of operation to maintain the load at 0° F. in transit.