A 1987 handbook published by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s division of Agricultural Marketing Service (USDA-AMS) been updated and republished by a team led by University of Florida researchers.  USDA-AMS Handbook No. 669, “Protecting Perishable Foods During Transport by Truck and Rail.”

The revised handbook includes all of the developments in technology, best practices and food safety that have occurred since its original publication.  The handbook provides comprehensive information for shippers, loaders, carriers and receivers regarding the equipment used to transport fresh and frozen perishable foods. It also offers recommendations for handling different perishable food items to reduce losses in quality while maintaining sanitary conditions.

The new handbook is downloadable as a smart PDF and can be easily navigated and searched on a driver’s mobile phone or other device.