Assessment Of Post-harvest Losses Research Articles

Characterization of Post-harvest Losses along the Supply Chain of Vegetables in Punjab

Background: The loss of vegetables is immense which is accrued to its perishability and sub optimal level of post-harvest management. There is a technological gap in adoption of harvesting and post-harvesting practices by farmers. There is sparse qualitative and quantitative assessment of post-harvest losses of vegetables in Punjab. The objective of the study is to identify the operation and channel where the losses are crossing the threshold, to estimate the extent of losses and characterize them at various post-harvest operations and levels for selected vegetables in Punjab and to analyse the factors responsible for post-harvest losses. Methods: The sample in survey location consisted of all the stakeholders of supply chain network for vegetables in the state of Punjab, India. The stakeholders consisted of farmers, wholesalers and retailers. The study adopted cluster sampling technique. The clusters selected for the study were Nakodar, Malerkotla and Baba Bakala Sahib and the vegetables selected for the study were potato, pea, tomato, okra and cauliflower. Further snowball sampling technique was used to select 80 farmers from each cluster, making up a total sample of 240 farmers and one reference each for wholesaler and retailer was identified in every cluster. Then using snowball technique, 2 wholesalers and 10 retailers were selected from each cluster. Thus, making total sample of 10 wholesalers and 30 retailers were selected for the study. The instrument used for the data collection was a structured interview schedule. The one-way ANOVA and Tukey’s Honest Significant Difference test were employed to understand the significant difference in post-harvest losses between the selected vegetables and along the supply chain. Result: The results revealed that the maximum losses were observed in tomato crop at farm level (17.71%) and retailer level (30.10%) whereas at wholesaler level maximum losses were recorded in pea (8.19%). The extent of losses at farm level has been higher as compared to wholesaler level and it was highest at the retailer level. At farmer’s level it was observed that there have been significantly higher losses in tomato crop (17.7±13.35). At retailer level, significantly higher losses were observed in tomato (30.10±15.80) whereas at wholesaler level, significantly higher losses occurred in pea (12.29±3.15). There was no significant difference in losses between farmer and retailer level. Major cause of loss reported by tomato growers (88.6%) was infestation of fruits with disease and insect. Main reason of post-harvest losses in okra and cauliflower as stated by farmers were bruises/blackening and over maturity. Since the findings reveal that the major losses in the supply chain of vegetables was due to lack adoption of harvest and post-harvest practices at farmer’s level. It is suggested that field level training should be imparted to farmers regarding post-harvest management techniques.

Quantitative Assessment of Post-Harvest Losses of Guava (Psidium guajava) in Rajasthan

The present research was done for the quantitative assessment of post-harvest losses in guava. Factors responsible for the post-harvest losses in guava were identified and evaluated. The study was performed in Sawai Madhopur district of Rajasthan because the district has the highest guava production (27452 MT) among other districts of Rajasthan. The research was performed during the year of 2022. The data was taken from 40 farmers through judgmental sampling. Modified average formula was employed to quantify the post-harvest losses in guava by taking consideration of all types of losses at 5 level (collection, sorting, grading, packaging and transportation). Friedman’s test was employed to test the difference between factors responsible for the post-harvest losses in guava. The overall post-harvest losses in guava at farm level was 14.05 per cent at district level which was comparatively higher than NABCONS 2022 study on post-harvest losses. The post-harvest losses during collection & transportation to storage house (1.91%), sorting (7.50%), grading (1.73%), packaging (1.32%) and transportation (1.59%) operations at farm level majorly contributed to the post-harvest losses in guava. The highest loss (7.50%) was found during sorting operation among other operation at farm level. Friedman’s test results reflected that inappropriate sorting & grading, heavy rainfall, insect infestation, disease infection and market infrastructure were the major contributing factors for the post-harvest losses in guava.

Studies on postharvest loss assessment of Tomato fruits using Aloe Vera gel as mitigating agent

This work evaluates effect of aloe gel coatings on post-harvest quality management of red ripe tomato fruits. Red ripe tomato fruits were purchased from Mandate market, Ilorin, Kwara State. It was sorted and washed with potable water. The sample was divided into four (4) lots for dip treatment in already prepared different aloe vera solutions and labelled: A0 (control), A1 (1.5% aloe vera), A2 (50% aloe vera) and A3 (100% aloe Vera). The pre-treated lots were stored on a laboratory shelf at ambient for 15 days. Physicochemical and nutritional properties were evaluated using standard procedures. Moisture (97.58%) and ash contents (0.68%) of lot A3 (100% aloe gel) were significantly higher (p<0.05) than the other lots. Results showed that lot A1 had the lowest weight loss of 13.1%, while A3 recorded the highest (37.2%). Lot A1 had significantly (p<0.05) higher sensory attributes than the other lots. At day 15, TTA was between 0.13 and 0.35 %, with lot A1 recording significantly (p<0.05) higher value of 0.35 %. TSS content of the tomato fruits decreased with increase in storage with exception to lot A2 which had the highest value (5.30 oBrix). There was a decrease in pH value of both the untreated and treated lots. The results also showed that the vitamin C content of the stored tomato fruits increased significantly (p<0.05) in all the lots as storage days progressed. The result from the study showed that Lot A1 retarded water loss and delayed fruit softening thereby making them acceptable to consumer.

Assessment Of Post-Harvest Losses On Soybeans Profitability In Three Sectors Of Nyagatare District Of Rwanda

Assessment Of Post-Harvest Losses On Soybeans Profitability In Three Sectors Of Nyagatare District Of Rwanda

Assessment of Postharvest Loss of Avocado at Producers Level (Case of Wolaita and KembataTembaro Zones)

The current study was to estimation the post-harvest loss of avocado at the producer level using cross-sectional data obtained from 385 proportionately sampled respondents from Wolaita and Kembata Tembaro Zones, the SNNPR of Ethiopia. Descriptive and multiple regression analysis were used to estimate the amount and determinant of post harvest loss. The average post-harvest loss of avocado at the producer level was estimated at 24.1 per cent, of which 5.7 per cent was due to poor harvesting practices and 4.9 per cent to poor storage practices. Sex, education, income, training, contact with extension agents, distance from the nearest road, and off-farm income were found to be negative determinants, whereas storage accessibility and avocado harvest techniques were found to be positive determinants of post-harvest loss of avocado fruits. Post-harvest losses contribute significantly to food insecurity and create a problem for the income source of individuals and the economy of the country.

Postharvest Loss Assessment of Banana(Musa spp.) at Jimma Town Market

Postharvest losses of banana in the supply chain with the total loss found to be 26.5% of which more percent of the total loss being at the retail market (64.10%) and wholesale level (35.90%). Mechanical damage followed by improper transport and improper storage were identified as the main causes of banana loss at wholesale level while fruit rotting followed by improper ripening and mechanical damage were identified as the main causes to the loss of banana fruit at retail level.As a results , the current postharvest management system of banana both at wholesale and retail levels is inadequate. The postharvest management of banana has not been given sufficient attention in the area hence, fruit handlers lack information about postharvest handling practices. It was also observed that there is a knowledge gap between the respondents in their experience of proper fruit handling techniques. Therefore, to reduce the level of postharvest losses of banana in jimma market, focus should be given to postharvest handling practices. The loss can be minimized by awareness creation, education and training about the importance of postharvest losses, adopting better management operations, careful handling and packaging to the supply chain actors. Keywords: Cause of post harvest losses, Post harvest loss ,Post harvest management DOI: 10.7176/FSQM/119-01 Publication date: September 30 th 202 2

Assessment of Post-harvest Losses of Major Vegetables in Rangareddy District of Telangana

Objective: Keeping in view the non-availability of systematic studies on post-harvest loss in Telangana, the current study was undertaken to assess the extent of post-harvest losses in major vegetables viz., tomato and brinjal and to identify the factors affecting post-harvest losses at farm level.
 Methods: Tabular analysis was used to calculate the post-harvest losses, the data was summarized using statistical tools such as average and percentage and multiple linear regression analysis was carried out to examine the factors affecting post-harvest losses at farm level. The present study was conducted in Rangareddy district which is the leading vegetable growing district in Telangana with a sample of 30 farmers,6 wholesalers and 6 retailers for each crop.
 Findings: The overall post-harvest loss in tomato and brinjal was 28.51 and 23.27 kg per quintal respectively and maximum losses was occurring at farm level for both crops. Functional analysis revealed that the factors such as age, education, extent of crop production and labour dummy (where family contribution is >50% in total labour demand ‘1’, else ‘0’) was significant in both crops studied. Timely plant protection measures in case of brinjal also significantly reduced the post-harvest losses. On an average, the per quintal monetary loss was relatively more for brinjal (Rs.239.6/q) than tomato (Rs.236.6/q). The total monetary loss at state level was Rs.251.6 crores for the study crops.
 Conclusion: It is evident from the results that losses are occurring in the value chain due to poor infrastructure and lack of post-harvest management techniques. Proper training on pest management and policies ensuring labour availability during peak harvesting period can aid in reducing the losses.

Postharvest Loss Assessment of Tomato in Selected Locations of Bangladesh

Tomato is a very well-known horticultural crop in Bangladesh. In order to make tomato production profitable postharvest management is very important. The present study assessed tomato postharvest losses in four intensive growing sites of Jamalpur and Rangpur districts of Bangladesh. Farm level postharvest losses were measured through using descriptive and inferential statistics. Cobb- Douglas type multiple linear regression model was used to identify the factors affecting farm level tomato postharvest loss in the survey areas. Farm level postharvest loss of tomato was 12.45% per farm in the survey area. From this3.59% was due to partial damages and the rest 8.86% was for full damages of tomato. The major causes for postharvest loss of tomato were rotten, disease and insect infestation. This loss incurs financial loss at farm level by BDT 152.45 per decimal of tomato cultivation. Total harvested amount, family member and selling price were some of the important factors for tomato postharvest loss in the survey area. Wide practices of improved postharvest management practices are essential to reduce tomato postharvest loss in the survey area.
 Bangladesh J. Agril. Res. 45(1): 43-52, March 2020

Post-Harvest Loss Assessment and Marketing Practices of Fruits: An Empirical Study of Maulvibazar District in Bangladesh

Aims: The present study highlighted the post-harvest loss assessment and marketing practices of fruits at different stages of marketing and their impact on farmers’ net price, marketing costs, margins, and efficiency from both farmers and various intermediaries (bepari, wholesaler, and retailer).
 Study Design: This article is a post-harvest loss assessment study and is placed on empirical analysis. The study considered post-harvest losses in farm and intermediaries’ level and its market practices which impact on farmer’s income, net price, marketing margin, and efficiency.
 Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted at Sreemangal Upazila of Maulvibazar district of Bangladesh. Data were collected from April to May for lemon and May to June for pineapple, 2019 as this time period is the harvesting season of lemon and pineapple.
 Methodology: The relevant data were collected from the farmers and intermediaries of lemon and pineapple of Maulvibazar District, Bangladesh. The sample size for lemon and pineapple was 240, where 80 farmers and 40 intermediaries were taken from four villages of Sreemangal Upazila in Maulvibazar district. Data from farmers were collected through simple random sampling based on the list of farmers and for intermediaries purposive sampling techniques was used as there had no fixed list of intermediaries in the study area. Data was analyzed by using Microsoft Excel and Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS).
 Results: Total post-harvest loss of lemon was 20.57% and 23.99% for pineapple of total production at farm level. The highest loss was estimated at 87.93 kg/quintal at the intermediaries’ level in the case of lemons, and 16.50 kg/quintal was for pineapples at farm level. Among different intermediaries, post-harvest loss of lemons was highest at the retail level (70.93 kg/quintal) and for pineapples at the wholesale level (9.18 kg/quintal). The net price received by the farmers for pineapple was greater that the farmers for lemon. Before and after separating losses, according to the conventional method, the net price received by the farmers was Tk. 10.06/kg and 17.13/kg for lemon and Tk. 15.58/kg and Tk. 20.01/kg for pineapple. After taking into account the physical loss during retailing, the margin of the retailers is less (loss) than other intermediaries indicated that they incurred a net loss during the retail trade due to high post-harvest losses.
 Conclusion: It has been concluded that pineapple marketing is a more efficient system in terms of both operations and price than lemon. The total marketing cost was lower at farm level on lemon and pineapple compared to intermediaries’ level. Marketing cost has been identified as the major constraint in the wholesale marketing channel, and bringing down the costs, particularly the loading and unloading and transportation charges as demonstrated in the marketing channel, will help reduce the price-spread and increase the producers’ margin. The need for specialized transport vehicles for perishable commodities has been highlighted.

Assessment of Postharvest Losses Due to Catching Undersized Fishery Commodities and Size-Dependent Pricing in the Philippines

The continuing decline in catch rates instigates various fishing adjustments to keep up with the demands of a growing population. Fishery resources are being caught before they can attain their optimum harvestable size. Undersized catch elicits lower economic value; thus, considered as losses in postharvest fisheries. The present study focused on generating actual data on the volume of undersized catches in selected landing sites in the Philippines. It aims to quantify the magnitude of postharvest and financial losses incurred from catching fishery commodities below their marketable sizes. The estimated loss at 0.97% and 4.02% for capture and aquaculture commodities, respectively, was equivalent to PHP 15,235,290 financial loss. Estimation of losses by commodity showed that squid recorded the highest at 20.14%, followed by tilapia (9.61%), blue swimming crab (4.48%), shrimp (2.75%), small pelagics (1.98%), mussel (1.46%), oceanic tuna (0.91%), by-catch (0.79%), milkfish (0.09%), and oyster (0.02%). Excessive catching of undersized BSC and squid in Western Visayas may lead to overexploitation of resources and may adversely affect subsequent recruitment in the long run. The study's results indicate that catching undersized species could lead to substantial postharvest losses and subsequent loss of potential revenue to the industry players. Allowing the stocks to attain their maximum biomass level will minimize postharvest losses; thus, maximizing utilization of resources and benefits derived from the sector. Unrestrained catching of undersized fishery commodities undermines resource sustainability, economic potential, and food security. The strengthening of regulatory frameworks is, therefore, necessary to address both economic and ecological impacts.

An assessment of postharvest losses to support innovation in the egg value chain in Ghana

The study sought to examine the postharvest losses along the egg value chain in the Bono Region of Ghana. Objectively, the study sought to quantify losses incurred by value-chain actors of egg production, determine the factors that influence the losses and explore measures used by actors to minimize these losses. A total of 213 respondents were selected from the Dormaa Central Municipality, the Dormaa East and the Dormaa West districts of the Bono Region. Data were solicited from the respondents using a structured questionnaire and interviews. Descriptive statistics and heteroskedastic linear regression analysis were used to analyze the data. The study revealed that egg loss from scratching contributes largely to producers’ total egg loss while transportation loss is the major contributor to both retailers’ and wholesalers’ total loss. The sum of losses incurred on the key egg value-chain actors amounted to approximately 1048 crates (31,440 eggs) per week which is approximately GH¢12,576 (US$2,287). Factors such as experience, postharvest training and enterprise scale (small-scale, medium, large-scale) positively influenced producers’ egg loss. Conversely, education, membership of farmer-based organisation (FBO), contract with buyers and access to extension officers were identified to influence producers’ postharvest losses negatively. On the other hand, marketers’ losses were positively influenced by postharvest training, gender (male), access to credit and the vehicle used to transport the eggs. Education, the nature of roads and grading were however identified to have a negative impact on postharvest losses. Measures such as night transport, special packaging, improved storage (improved ventilation) and cleaning were identified as respondents’ measures to minimize postharvest losses. It is recommended that the Government of Ghana’s flagship project on One-district-one-factory should consider the establishment of standardized warehouses (cold rooms) to help extend the shelf live of eggs in the study area.

Post-harvest Loss Assessment of Banana (Musa spp.) at Jimma Town Market

Post-harvest loss of banana in Jimma town market was accounted a total loss of 26.5% in the supply chain. Of these, more percent of the total losses were being observed at the retail market (64.10%) and whole-salers level (35.90%). Mechanical damage followed by improper transport and improper storage were identified as the main causes of banana loss at whole-salers level while fruit rotting followed by improper ripening and mechanical damage were identified as the main causes to the loss of banana fruit at retail level. Hence, the current post-harvest management system of banana at whole-salers and retail level is inadequate. There is no sufficient attention given for the post-harvest management of banana in the supply chain. It was also observed that, there is a knowledge gap between the respondents in their experience of proper fruit handling techniques. Therefore, to reduce the level of post-harvest losses of banana, more emphasis should be given to post-harvest handling practices. The loss can be minimized or prevented by awareness creation, education and training about the importance of post-harvest losses, adopting better management operations, careful handling and packaging to the supply chain actors.

Fish Losses for Whom? A Gendered Assessment of Post-Harvest Losses in the Barotse Floodplain Fishery, Zambia

Few studies examine post-harvest fish losses using a gender lens or collect sex-disaggregated data. This mixed-methods study assessed fish losses experienced by female and male value chain actors in a fishery in western Zambia to determine who experiences losses, why, and to what extent. Results indicate that participation in the fishery value chain is gendered and most losses occur during post-harvest activities. Discussions with fishers, processors, and traders suggest the value chain is more fluid than often depicted, with people making calculated decisions to sell fresh or dried fish depending on certain conditions, and mostly driven by the need to avoid losses and attain higher prices. The study shows that gender norms shape the rewards and risks offered by the value chain. This could be the reason why a greater proportion of women than men experienced physical losses in our study sample. Female processors lost three times the mass of their fish consignments compared to male processors. Technical constraints (lack of processing technologies) and social constraints (norms and beliefs) create gender gaps in post-harvest losses. Addressing unequal gender relations in value chains, whilst also promoting the use of loss-reducing technologies, could increase fish supply and food security in small-scale fisheries.

Assessment of post-harvest losses and carbon footprint in intensive lowland rice production in Myanmar

This paper examines how a move from traditional post-harvest operations of smallholder rice farms in the Ayeyarwaddy delta, Myanmar, to improved post-harvest operations affected income, energy efficiency and greenhouse gas emissions (GHGE). Harvest and post-harvest losses were investigated in a field experiment with 5 replications per scenario. A comparative analysis on energy efficiency and cost-benefits was conducted for different practices of rice production from cultivation to milling. GHGE of different practices were also considered using a life-cycle assessment approach. The study demonstrates that the mechanized practices increased the net income by 30–50% compared with traditional practices. Despite using additional energy for machine manufacturing and fuel consumption, the mechanized practices significantly reduced postharvest losses and did not increase the total life-cycle enegy and GHGE. Combine harvesting helped to significantly reduce harvesting loss in a range of 3 to 7% (by weight of the rice product). Improved post-harvest management practices with a flatbed dryer and hermetic storage reduced the discoloration of rice grains by 3 to 4% and increased head-rice recovery by 20 to 30% (by weight of rice product). The research findings provide empirical evidence that improved post-harvest management of rice in the Ayeyarwaddy delta, compared to traditional post-harvest operations by smallholder farmers, reduce post-harvest losses and improve the quality of rice. The findings provide valuable information for policy makers involved in formulating evidence-based mechanization policies in South and Southeast Asia.

Assessment of post-harvest losses in banana under Jalgaon condition, in Maharashtra

Post harvest losses of fresh produce is a major challenge in the post harvest sector. Banana fruits are the most perishable agricultural produces facing a tremendous loss from harvest to consumption. The present investigation was undertaken to assess post harvest losses (at farm level, transport level, wholesale market level, storage and ripening level and retail level) in Jalgaon district of Maharashtra with 100 farmers since 2018 to 2019. The four banana growing tahsils selected for survey were Raver, Muktainagar, Yawal and Chopda. The variety grown was Grand Nain. The results revealed that, the overall post-harvest losses in banana comprised of (6.81%) loss at field level, (3.90%) loss during transport. The minimum (1.56%) post harvest losses in banana were recorded during assembly market/ wholesale market. The losses to were recorded during storage and ripening was (3.40%). The highest loss (14.12%) was observed at retailer level. The major problems of the post-harvest losses of banana fruits were due to faulty handling, lack of packaging techniques, transport facilities, lack of cold storage facilities. The results have emphasized that efforts should be made to adopt scientific method of handling improved packaging techniques, cushioning material & cold storage facilities at the retail level for minimizing the post harvest losses in Banana.

Assessment on post-harvest losses of tomato (Lycopersicon esculentem Mill.) in selected districts of East Shewa Zone of Ethiopia using a commodity system analysis methodology

One of the main challenges facing Ethiopia today is to ensure food security for its rapidly growing population. Although Ethiopia's production is much lower than the national demand, there are high post-harvest food losses. In meeting a country's food demand, increasing production by itself is not enough unless what has been produced is properly managed. In line with this, extensive assessment of post-harvest losses of tomato along the supply chain and the associated factors were evaluated in four purposively selected districts of East Shewa Zone of Ethiopia. The assessment was made using Commodity System Assessment Methodology from “farm-to-fork” to investigate the status of post-harvest losses of tomato along the supply chain and the associated factors in the pursuit of recommending appropriate mitigation strategies. Information was gathered from a total of N = 408 sampled chain actors (producers to consumers) and related institutions. Results revealed that losses of tomato due to improper care and handling of the commodity regardless of its high production in the study area were common problems for all chain actors. A loss of 20.5%, 8.6%, 2.9%, and 7.3% at the producer, wholesalers, retailers, and hotel and café level was recorded respectively with a total loss of 39.3%. Total losses across districts ranged from 17.2-33.3. Field, transportation and market display were major critical loss points identified. Practices such as market fluctuation, lack of temperature management, no/poor sorting and mixed handling of the crop, carelessness on the loss prevention and its impact were identified among the common causes for observed losses. Therefore, creating awareness on the effect of all causes of food loss and minimizing economic loss is recommended. Moreover, affordable and appropriate technology adaptation is needed to reduce observed food losses across the districts.

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Study on post-harvest quantitative and qualitative losses of potato tubers from two different road access districts of Jimma zone, South West Ethiopia

One of the main challenges facing Ethiopia today is to ensure food security for its highly increasing population growth. Although the country's production is much lower than the national demand, there are high post-harvest food losses. Among several causes at different levels, absence of infrastructure plays a critical role in quantitative and qualitative losses of mainly fruit, vegetable, root and tuber crops. This study was initiated to investigate impact of two different production areas having different road access on qualitative and quantitative loss of potato tuber in extended storage time. Load tracking approach was used by simulating existing postharvest handling and storage practice of potato tuber in the study area. Quantitative post-harvest loss assessment along the supply chains, qualitative loss and shelf life estimation at retail market were investigated using standard methods. Results showed that more mechanical damages and seepage loss were observed in case of poor road quality and transportation. During extended storage time (30 days) at ambient environment, potato tubers transported from Dedo to Jimma resulted in high average weight loss (17.9 ± 0.9%), significant loss in firmness (7.0 ± 0.6N in average) and average vitamin C content of 9.20 ± 0.05mg/100g as compared to tubers transported from Seka to Jimma market. This implies that, lack of good road access and transportation facility contributed for more external mechanical damages and internal injuries which will critically enhance rate of degradation of tubers in later stages of storage.

Post harvest loss and marketing of fruits - economic analysis of pink flesh guava in local and distant markets in India

Guava produced in Bengaluru in Karnataka is also transported to distant markets like Cochin in Kerala and Chennai in Tamil Nadu. An assessment of post harvest loss (PHL) was done in these markets. The main marketing channel followed was:Producer  PHC  Distant Market WS Retailer  ConsumerMarketing practices followed in marketing of pink flesh guava and losses occurring at the wholesale (transit) and retailers’ level (storage) in the distant market - Kerala were studied from wholesalers and retailers. The PHL at the wholesalers’ level was observed to be 3.6 per cent mainly due to pressed and crushed fruits during transit. The retail level loss was 4.59 per cent which was mainly due to storage for more than two days resulting in decaying, rotting, yellowing etc. Average price received by the wholesaler was Rs.29.92/kg with a margin of Rs.6.21/kg (20.75%). The retailers received a price of Rs.46.54/kg with a margin of Rs.16.35/kg (35.13%). Marketing practices followed in marketing of pink flesh guava and losses occurring at the wholesale (transit) and retailers’ level (storage) in the distant market - Chennai (Tamil Nadu) were studied with wholesalers in Coimbeedu market and retailers in different parts of Chennai. The PHL at the wholesalers’ level was observed to be 4.62 per cent mainly due to pressed and crushed fruits during transit. The retail level loss was 6.09 per cent which was due to pressing of fruits during handling. The wholesaler received a margin of 22.91 percent in trading of guava fruits. The retailers received a margin of 45.72 per cent. The Karnataka farmers can take advantage of the higher prices prevalent in the distant markets and increase their income. Pathological investigation indicated that losses occurred at different stages of handling due to Styler end rot, Anthracnose, Canker, thrips attack etc., which needs to be addressed. The storage losses of pink flesh guava were estimated as 5.89 % after 4 days of storage at room temperature (24-32°C) that constituted mainly the physiological loss in weight (PLW). Spoilage started after 5 days of storage (10.5 %) and reached to 28.31 % by 6 days of storage. After 4 days of storage, guava fruits lose weight to the extent of 6 per cent and the spoilage starts after 5 days. Hence, care should be taken to dispose of the fruits within five days of harvest.

Post harvest loss and marketing of fruits - economic analysis of pink flesh guava in local and distant markets in India

Guava produced in Bengaluru in Karnataka is also transported to distant markets like Cochin in Kerala and Chennai in Tamil Nadu. An assessment of post harvest loss (PHL) was done in these markets. The main marketing channel followed was:Producer  PHC  Distant Market WS Retailer  ConsumerMarketing practices followed in marketing of pink flesh guava and losses occurring at the wholesale (transit) and retailers’ level (storage) in the distant market - Kerala were studied from wholesalers and retailers. The PHL at the wholesalers’ level was observed to be 3.6 per cent mainly due to pressed and crushed fruits during transit. The retail level loss was 4.59 per cent which was mainly due to storage for more than two days resulting in decaying, rotting, yellowing etc. Average price received by the wholesaler was Rs.29.92/kg with a margin of Rs.6.21/kg (20.75%). The retailers received a price of Rs.46.54/kg with a margin of Rs.16.35/kg (35.13%). Marketing practices followed in marketing of pink flesh guava and losses occurring at the wholesale (transit) and retailers’ level (storage) in the distant market - Chennai (Tamil Nadu) were studied with wholesalers in Coimbeedu market and retailers in different parts of Chennai. The PHL at the wholesalers’ level was observed to be 4.62 per cent mainly due to pressed and crushed fruits during transit. The retail level loss was 6.09 per cent which was due to pressing of fruits during handling. The wholesaler received a margin of 22.91 percent in trading of guava fruits. The retailers received a margin of 45.72 per cent. The Karnataka farmers can take advantage of the higher prices prevalent in the distant markets and increase their income. Pathological investigation indicated that losses occurred at different stages of handling due to Styler end rot, Anthracnose, Canker, thrips attack etc., which needs to be addressed. The storage losses of pink flesh guava were estimated as 5.89 % after 4 days of storage at room temperature (24-32°C) that constituted mainly the physiological loss in weight (PLW). Spoilage started after 5 days of storage (10.5 %) and reached to 28.31 % by 6 days of storage. After 4 days of storage, guava fruits lose weight to the extent of 6 per cent and the spoilage starts after 5 days. Hence, care should be taken to dispose of the fruits within five days of harvest.