http://www.fao.org/3/y2515e/y2515e00.htm#toc
The purpose of this publication is to present technical and business information designed to address issues facing small and medium-size juice processors along with insights into the theory and practice of juice and juice beverage processing and utilization. Both major and minor fruits will be covered with emphasis upon limited-resource producers for local markets. Unique, high quality juice products can secure a niche position. With attention to quality, value, safety, health and an innovative approach to these parameters, a manufacturer can move beyond the niche category and become a major player. This is a more difficult but feasible task.
There are some general principles that should be understood by anyone contemplating entering the juice processing business. Many aspects of production, postharvest handling, food safety, quality, unit operations, processing and packaging procedures, as well as regulatory control, are common to practically all juice products. Then there are a number of product-specific details, dependent upon the morphology, composition and character of the individual fruit. This publication will provide adequate details so interested parties can either improve existing operations or develop new processing establishments. Potential capabilities include adding value to local agricultural products, providing employment, augmenting the quality, safety, economy and diversity of the local food supply.
This entails a working understanding of food science and technology. In turn, it requires attention to the knowledge resources available though unevenly accessible globally. A good technical library with the latest texts, supplemented by complete journal holdings, abstract services and as their electronic equivalent, Internet linkages and on line search capability, is an expensive undertaking for even the most affluent institutions. Such facilities remain a remote possibility in developing countries. However equipment and access costs are dropping and the pace of information technology advances has never been faster and will have global implications.