Post-Harvest Handling and Transportation Methods that Allow Small-Scale Growers To Deliver Top-Quality Produce Jeff Kindhart, University of Illinois Why are good post harvest practices important? High-quality, disease free produce with a good shelf life is a result of good production practices, proper handling during harvest, and appropriate post harvest handling and storage. ---- ATTRA, Post harvest handling of fruits and vegetables Maintain Quality Appearance  Texture  Flavor  Nutritive value 