The effectively used system for classification of table tomatoes by wholesalers and producers was studied in Curitiba, Brazil. We also identified why the laws of classification are not adopted. Eleven wholesalers and 31 tomato planters, which sell their production in CEASA Curitiba, were interviewed. Other two producers were also interviewed in their properties and tracked from production to marketing. After tabulation of the data, we calculated the percentage of respondents in each issue framed in relation to the total number of interviewees. More than one language of classification was identified on the market, and although there are no patterns of grading standards, these languages are included on saling. For wholesalers of CEASA Curitiba, the classification of tomatoes is based on the color and fruit size. The fruits can be green, colorful (or painted) or red (or mature) and present size Extra 3A or mouth 5 (diameter greater than 7.5 cm), Extra 2A or mouths 6 or 7 (diameter between 6.2 and 7,5 cm), Extra 1A or mouths 8 or 9 (diameter between 4.8 and 6.2 cm). The fruits Extra 2A (average) are the most frequent in trade. Most producers rank the fruits in great, intermediate and little, in a clear correlation with the classification adopted by the wholesalers. Both rating systems differ from the official; according to the majority of wholesalers and producers, it is difficult to enforce, and the final product can become expensive and lead to a considerable increase in the discarded fruits. For these reasons, rather than official standards for the classification of tomatoes could be adopted, it is necessary to provide for the productive sector technologies and qualified technical assistance. It is also necessary that the rules of classification are internalized by the agents of the market through courses and training to encourage their adoption.
Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.; quality standards; marketing; wholesale market
