Carrots
Texas ranks fifth in U.S. carrot production with annual revenues exceeding $20 million. Some 60 percent is grown for the fresh market with the remainder going for processing. Beta Sweet, a maroon carrot developed at Texas A&M University, shows sales potential among health-conscious consumers. Beta Sweets contain about 40 percent more beta carotene, as well as more anthocyanin, than typical orange carrots. These antioxidants may help prevent cancer. |
Selection: Look for carrots that are well-shaped with firm, smooth exteriors. Colors should be vibrant orange to red orange although there are white and even maroon varieties of carrots available in specialty markets. Tops are typically trimmed closely since the leafy greens decay rapidly and contribute to the decline of the carrot itself. Flabby, soft or wilted carrots, or those that show any mildew, decay, growth cracks or splits, should be avoided.
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Storage: When purchasing fresh carrots with tops, remove the tops and store unwashed in a plastic bag in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Nutrition: As their name suggests, carrots are an outstanding source of carotene (the source of vitamin A) and are high in fiber. A half cup serving of cooked carrots contains four times the recommended daily intake of vitamin A in the form of protective beta carotene.
General Produce Safety Guidelines:
- All fresh produce that is peeled or cut should be refrigerated within two hours. Leftover cut produce should be discarded if left at room temperature for more than two hours.
- Hands should be washed with hot soapy water before and after handling fresh produce.
- Wash all fruits and vegetables with cool tap water immediately before eating. Do not use soap or detergents. Scrub firm produce, such as melons and cucumbers, with a clean produce brush. Cut away bruised or damaged areas before eating.
- Wash surfaces often. Cutting boards, dishes, utensils and counter tops should be washed with hot soapy water and sanitized after coming in contact with fresh produce. Always use clean cutting boards and utensils when handling fresh produce.
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Availability
| Fresh Texas carrots including Baby carrots are available year round. |
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