Postharvest Handling Practices Research Articles

Measures for Reducing Tomato Post-Harvest Losses at Farmer Level in the Lake Victoria Crescent Agro-Ecological Zone.

Globally, tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum) are recognized as a significant vegetable crop with nutritional, health, and economic importance. In Uganda, small-scale tomato farmers, obtain low yields due to biotic and abiotic conditions of pests, diseases, lack of irrigation, and insufficient knowledge of sustainable farming practices. Post-harvest losses further hinder tomato production by limiting the amount of high-quality produce reaching the market. This study used a largely qualitative approach to understand the mechanisms tomato farmers in Wakiso and Luwero districts in Central Uganda use to reduce post-harvest losses at farm level. The study reveals that the Assila F1 Hybrid is the predominant variety—chosen for its firmness, extended shelf life, and resistance to pests and diseases. Farmers adopted staggered planting to manage post-harvest losses, harvesting mature green tomatoes in the morning and evening. However, a lack of technical expertise resulted in a deficiency of deliberate post-harvest treatments, and the absence of a mandatory body for produce inspection negatively impacted quality. Individual sales by farmers without standardized measurements also contributed to exploitation by middlemen. The study recommends farmers’ capacity building in appropriate post-harvest handling practices.

Physiological Processes Affecting Postharvest Quality of Fresh Fruits and Vegetables

Fresh fruits and vegetables are integral components of a balanced diet, providing essential nutrients and contributing to human health. However, the postharvest quality of these perishable commodities is greatly influenced by various physiological processes that occur after harvest. This article reviews the key physiological processes affecting postharvest quality, including respiration, transpiration, ripening, senescence, and enzymatic activity. Understanding these processes is crucial for optimizing postharvest handling practices to extend shelf life, maintain quality attributes such as texture, flavor, color, and nutritional content, and minimize losses. Strategies to manage these physiological processes, including temperature and humidity control, modified atmosphere packaging, and the use of postharvest treatments, are discussed. Additionally, emerging technologies and innovative approaches for enhancing postharvest quality and extending the storage life of fresh fruits and vegetables are highlighted. By elucidating the complex interplay of physiological factors influencing postharvest quality, this review aims to provide valuable insights for researchers, practitioners, and stakeholders involved in the fresh produce supply chain, ultimately contributing to the promotion of food security and sustainability.

Surveillance and source tracking of foodborne pathogens in the vegetable production systems of India

Fresh vegetables are prone to foodborne pathogen infection due to improper cultivation methods and poor post-harvest handling practices. This paper describes the prevalence of foodborne pathogens in three vegetables (tomato, brinjal, and lablab) cultivated by small-scale producers (SSP) of India. We assessed the possible entry of pathogens into the vegetable production chain. Samples from soil, manure, irrigation water, harvesting bins, and workers’ hands were assessed as sources of possible pathogen entry. In addition, further sampling was done to determine prevalence of these pathogens in the produce from the agricultural fields and markets. Total plate counts, yeast and mold count, total coliforms like general microbial indices, and possible foodborne pathogens like Salmonella, Escherichia coli O157, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and norovirus were assessed in all the samples by standard microbiological, biochemical, and molecular methods. The results revealed that among the three vegetables we studied, brinjal had the highest load of general microbial indicators. Moreover, the total coliforms count of market vegetables was higher than that of on-farm vegetables, indicating poor hygiene in post-harvest operations. The pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa was found in the market tomatoes (0.35 log10 cfu/g), and E. coli was detected in the market samples of brinjal (2.98–3.89 log10 cfu/g) and lablab (0.59–2.21 log10 cfu/g), thereby revealing fecal cross-contamination during pre or post-harvest operations. None of the vegetable samples were contaminated with E. coli O157:H7, Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella sp., and norovirus. However, the microbiological source tracking of primary production farms showed that E. coli O157:H7 was present in manure (9/27), soil (6/27), harvest bins (6/27), and irrigation water samples (3/27) of SSP farms. In addition, soil (33%), manure (11%), and harvest bins (11%) had Pseudomonas aeruginosa. In conclusion, our study suggests that adequate knowledge of good agricultural practices for small-scale producers to cultivate microbiologically safe vegetable production and proper handling strategies for vegetable vendors is crucial to mitigate foodborne pathogen outbreaks through fresh vegetables.

Assessment of postharvest handling practices of green leafy vegetables and its challenges among holders in Ilorin, Nigeria

Assessment of postharvest handling practices of green leafy vegetables and its challenges among holders in Ilorin, Nigeria

The title role of postharvest handling practices in augmenting the supply chain efficiency of apples in the Dehradun and Uttarkashi Districts of Uttarakhand

The title role of postharvest handling practices in augmenting the supply chain efficiency of apples in the Dehradun and Uttarkashi Districts of Uttarakhand

Performance Evaluation of Evaporative Cooling Systems as Alternative for Increasing the Shelf Life of Perishable Crops at the Farmer Level in Vunjo-Moshi Rural

Postharvest handling in developing countries continues to be a major challenge for most of the farmers. The low economy in these countries is counted as a major obstacle toward the adaptation of modern postharvest technologies. The present study aimed to assess the existing post-harvest handling practises and test the suitability of evaporative cooling systems for reducing post-harvest losses by using Vunjo-Moshi Rural as a case study. A total of 30 questionnaires covering small commercial farmers were utilised to get information regarding the existing post-harvest handling practices in Vunjo. Two evaporative cooling systems, the Charcoal Cooler Chamber and Sand Cooler Chamber, were created and tested in Vunjo. Their effectiveness was measured by their response to temperature and humidity changes. Results indicated that 87% of the small farmers in Vunjo used local precooling and cold storage methods characterised by low efficiency. Further results showed 77% of all spoilage crops were randomly disposed of in the environment regardless of their impacts. Performance results of designed evaporative systems showed that the Charcoal Cooler Chamber (at its highest performance), could lower the daily ambient temperature by 8.8 °C while increasing the ambient relative humidity from 73.01% to 90.93%. The Sand Cooler Chamber could reduce the daily ambient temperature by 7.8 °C and increase the ambient relative humidity from 73.01% to 93.90%. The performance of both designed systems met the recommended standard for increasing the shelf life of most of the perishable crops cultivated in Vunjo, making them recommended as alternative precooling and cold storage technologies.

Adoption of Post-Harvest Handling Practices by Ginger Farmers in Palpa District, Nepal

Ginger has the potential for export and increased income for farmers in Nepal. Proper post-harvest handling practices has led to low market prices and significant post-harvest losses of ginger. The study was conducted in Palpa district to examine the post-harvest practices and technology adoption among ginger farmers. Data from 66 farmers in Bagnashkali, Purbakhola, Nisdi, and Rampur municipalities was collected through interviews, key informant interviews, and focus group discussions. Descriptive analysis was performed using MS Excel and SPSS. Results showed that 72.7% of farmers practiced storage, with Bhakari (60.41%) and Pit (39.59%) being the common storage types. Storage molds affected 72.2% of respondents, while 28.8% reported wrinkling during storage. Washing was practiced by only 7.6% of farmers. Manual grading was reported by all respondents, with no commercial grading observed. Black sutho production was carried out by 65.2% of farmers. Value addition activities such as sorting were practiced by 65% of respondents, while 25% engaged in transportation and packaging. Respondents' awareness of ginger post-harvest practices varied, with 75.76% having low awareness, 16.66% medium awareness, and 7.58% high awareness. Farmers' general precautions during harvesting, such as avoiding rhizome injury and minimal trimming and sorting, were not accompanied by specific precautionary practices, contributing to their challenges. The findings emphasize the importance of adopting modern post-harvest practices to increase production, improve product quality, and command higher market prices. Implementing these measures will enable ginger farmers in Palpa district to enhance their income and contribute to the growth of the ginger industry in Nepal.

The Role of Operation Wealth Creation (OWC) Program on Diary Farmers in Mbarara District-A Descriptive Perspective

Helping subsistence farmers make the leap into commercial agriculture was the driving force behind OWC or Operation Wealth Creation. The purpose of this research was to assess how the OWC program has affected the Mbarara area, dairy producers. The researchers used a descriptive study strategy and surveyed 161 dairy producers. There was a dramatic drop in poverty from 68 percent to 47 percent as a result of the 70.2% increase in milk output (using the poverty line criteria of $1.90 per day). This indicates that a majority of dairy producers (53.3%) have successfully adopted the use of currency. The major source of income in the Mbarara area is dairy farming, which is the focus of this study and sets it apart from previous studies. The advantages might be increased by enhancing post-harvest handling practices, particularly by finding ways to get the most out of milking equipment. The government should also emphasize the construction of auxiliary factories that can raise milk's value and increase the number of goods made from it. These efforts might increase agricultural productivity and decrease poverty while providing job possibilities for industrialists and farmers.

Postharvest Handling Practices and Hygiene Knowledge of Cowpea Leaves among Households in the Arid and Semi-Arid Lands in Kenya

Cowpea leaves are highly perishable seasonal crops with limited utilization in the arid and semi- arid lands. The instituted coping strategies among households to enhance the availability of the vegetable for consumption are yet to be elucidated in any documented studies. The study sought to assess the post-harvest handling practices and hygiene knowledge in the arid lands of Kenya. A cross-sectional study involving 405 randomly selected households was used in Taita Taveta and Kitui Counties. A large percentage (97.5%) of households consumed cowpea leaves sourced from their farms. Households producing cowpea leaves in Taita Taveta County had less odds (OR=0.6) of having surplus produce than those from Kitui County (χ2=5.4, df =1, p<0.05). Major storage techniques for surplus produce among the households included drying (16.8%) and storage under low temperature (8.4%), there was a significant difference in the storage techniques between the two counties (p<0.05). Field heat management was only done among 55.3% households with the higher percentage (71.7%) being from Taita Taveta County (χ2=45.2, df=1, p<0.05). Some households have learnt some methods to extend the shelf life but have not been adopted, there was no statistical significance difference between the two counties on the adoption of the preservation methods (χ2=0.3, df=1, p>0.05). Losses are majorly attributed by poor storages facilities, at least 59.6 % of farmers from Taita Taveta lack these facilities and 40.4%/ from Kitui, with a significant difference (p<0.05, χ2=16.2). Both regions had poor hygiene and post-harvest handling knowledge scores with Kitui County having higher scores, A significant difference (p<0.05, x=33.2) in knowledge scores was noted between the two counties. In conclusion, post-harvest management practices in both counties are inadequate and need to be improved in order to increase utilization and reduce post-harvest losses.

Unlocking the potential for yellow maize production and utilization in Homa-bay County, Kenya

Yellow maize is popular in Western Kenya especially in Homa-Bay County. However, it’s faced with myriad of challenges that has greatly limited its production and utilization. This study investigated yellow maize production, post-harvest handling and utilization practices and constraints while exploring opportunities. The study was conducted from September-November 2020 in three wards of Ndhiwa Sub-County, Homa-Bay County by conducting a cross-sectional survey using a structured questionnaire administered to 385 farmers. Results showed that yellow maize production was an important food security crop and source of livelihood for farmers. Yellow maize was continuously cultivated as a sole crop or intercropped with legumes in less than 1ha land sizes using locally sourced seed with low levels of farm inputs resulting in low yields of less than 1 t/ha. Yellow maize was preferred due to its early maturity (3 months), taste, tolerance to biotic and abiotic stresses. The main constraints included total lack of good quality seed, low soil fertility (71%), striga weed infestation (60%), low marketability (46%), pest/diseases prone (34%) and adverse weather (33%). About 68% sun dried their maize, with the dried grains stored in polypropylene bags (87%) kept mainly on raised platforms in their houses (90%) for approximately 3 months/year. Most of the respondents (95%) preferred to consume yellow maize compared to white maize mainly in form of ugali (stiff porridge) (97%) consumed twice daily (77%). The yellow maize potential is under-exploited and enhancing its productivity through research, improved seed system, soil amendments and awareness creation could lead to production increase and be among the pathways that can be used to develop the region and contribute to food and nutrition security in the country.

Review of recent advances in post-harvest techniques for tropical cut flowers and future prospects: Heliconia as a case-study.

Aesthetic attributes and easy-to-grow nature of tropical cut flowers (TCFs) have contributedto their potential for increased production. The dearth of information regarding agronomic practices and lack of planting materials are the key hindrances against their fast expansion. Unconventional high-temperature storage requirements and the anatomy of the peduncle contribute topoor vase life performance, while troublesome packaging and transport due to unusual size and structureprimarily cause post-harvest quality deterioration. Nonetheless, the exotic floral structuresconsequently increase market demand, particularly in temperate countries. This boosts studies aimed at overcoming post-harvest hindrances. While a few TCFs (Anthurium, Strelitzia, Alpinia, and a few orchids) are under the spotlight, many others remain behind the veil. Heliconia, an emerging specialty TCF (False Bird-of-Paradise, family Heliconiaceae), is one of them. The structural uniquenessand dazzling hues of Heliconia genotypes facilitate shifting its position from the back to the forefrontof the world floriculture trade. The unsatisfactory state-of-the-art of Heliconia research and the absence of any review exclusively on it are the key impetus for structuring this review. In addition to the aforementioned setbacks, impaired water uptake capacity after harvest, high chilling sensitivity, and the proneness of xylem ducts to microbial occlusion may be counted as a few additional factors that hinder its commercialization. This review demonstrates the state-of-the-art of post-harvest research while also conceptualizing the implementation of advanced biotechnological aid to alleviate the challenges, primarily focusing on Heliconia (the model crop here) along with some relevant literature on its other allied members. Standard harvesting indices, grading, and packaging are also part of the entire post-harvest operational chain, but since these phases are barely considered in Heliconia and the majority of tropical ornamentals except a few, a comprehensive account of these aspects has also been given. The hypothesized cues to nip chilling injury, resorting to different bio-chemical treatments, nano-based technology, and advanced packaging techniques, may help overcome preservation difficulties and propel its transition from niche to the commercial flower market. In a nutshell, readers will gain a comprehensive overview of how optimum post-harvest handling practices can rewardingly characterize this unique group of TCFs as the most remunerative component.

Postharvest handling practices and mycotoxin occurrence along the dried berbere chilli pepper value chain: A case study from Northern Ethiopia

Berbere, the hot pepper spice, is a central ingredient in Ethiopian cuisine. This study aimed to deepen understanding of the agricultural and postharvest handling practices and incidence of aflatoxins and ochratoxins at different stages of the domestic berbere (Capsicum frutescens) value chain in the Amhara region of Northern Ethiopia. The main actors in the berbere value chain in Ethiopia are farmers, assemblers, wholesalers, retailers, industrial processors, and domestic consumers. A series of semi-structured questionnaires were developed and used to interview 90 stakeholders from across these different value chain stages to learn about their berbere-related activities and challenges. Additionally, a random sampling method was used to collect 100 berbere samples (80 samples of whole dry berbere pods and 20 samples of berbere powder) from across the different focal value chain stages (harvesting, storage, processing, and retail) for analysis to determine whether aflatoxin and ochratoxin were present above the maximum recommended thresholds. In the Amhara region, most farmers typically cultivate berbere on areas of 0.5–1 ha of farmland. The berbere harvest is done manually, and the chilli pods are then spread directly on the ground to sun dry. Such drying practices increase the risk of contamination of the produce by dust, debris, and soil-borne fungi. Assemblers purchase berbere from the farmers, the pods are then sorted by variety and packed in woven polypropylene bags which are then heaped in store rooms. All the berbere samples, from each stage of the value chain analysed were found to test positive for mycotoxins, exhibiting levels of >20 ppb and >2 ppb of total aflatoxin and ochratoxin, respectively. The promotion of a range of integrated pest and postharvest management actions with the different value chain actors are recommended to improve the quality and safety of berbere within these important domestic value chains.

Assessment of Post-Harvest Handling Practices of Honey in Erer Zone, Somali Regional State, Ethiopia

Honey is a natural food that honeybees make from nectar or other floral secretions. Although Ethiopia has been producing honey for a long time, the quality of the honey produced there, and in the study region in particular, is still poor because of improper handling practices. The objective of this study was to assess post-harvest handling practices of honey in the Erer zone, Somali regional state, Ethiopia. Two districts namely Lagahida and Fik were selected purposively based on beekeeping potential and three kebeles were selected from each district purposively based on honey production potential, and lastly a total of 156 beekeeping households were randomly selected for this study. The study revealed that sampled households used traditional beekeeping systems and hung their hives on trees away from the homestead in dense forests. Honey is harvested two times a year and the average honey yield from traditional and modern hives was 3.65 & 9.73 kg, respectively. The majority (79.5%) of the respondents used smoke and fire during honey harvesting and honey is harvested at night time and this affects honey quality because smoke and ashes from the fire ends up mixing with the harvested honey. The majority (76.95%) of the beekeepers collect and store honey in plastic containers. However, these containers are not appropriate and can spoil honey and may result in quality deterioration. The majority (80.8%) of the beekeepers do not strain honey and only 19.2% of them strain honey before it is sold by simple drainage to remove the beeswax using hand (13.4%) and sieve (5.8%). The beekeepers who do not strain honey reported that they lacked straining materials (29.5%), lack of knowledge of straining (9.6%), and lack of both knowledge & materials (41.7%). High cost of beekeeping equipment, pests & predators, water scarcity, shortage of bee forage, absconding & marketing problem were the major constraints of honey production in the area. The study concluded that the majority of the beekeepers practice traditional beekeeping systems and improper honey-handling practices. Therefore, awareness creation and training of beekeepers on proper handling measures of honey is very crucial in addition to the provision of improved beekeeping equipment which would significantly contribute to honey quality enhancement. Furthermore, investigations on the implications of poor handling practices on honey quality and from the perspective of public health are also required.

Do Post-harvest Losses Affect the Farmers’ Income? - Post-Harvest Loss Estimation for Major Vegetables in South India

Over the last two decades, India’s food system with population surge has been undergoing a transformation with increase in demand for high value fruits and vegetables. However, farmers are not benefitted from these transitions as the post-harvest losses are fairly high due to poorly developed post-harvest management practices. The present study aims to estimate the nature and extent of losses and also analysed the determinants of post-harvest losses for major vegetables (gourds) in South India. Palakkad district of Kerala was chosen for the study as it contributes the most, for the state’s vegetable area and production. Multi-stage random sampling techniques were adopted and the vegetables selected were based on their annual production in the study area. The total loss observed in bitter gourd at farm level was about 12.46 percent (34.53 qtl/ha). At trader level, the physiological loss contributed to almost 45 percent of the total losses. Hence, the total loss in bitter gourd was observed to be 21.88 per cent. Likewise in snake gourd, the extent of losses at farm level was found to be 9 percent (26.1 qtl/ha), where the highest losses (4.74 percent) were due to biotic factors like pests and diseases prevailing in the study area. Therefore, the total loss estimated in snake gourd was 13.89 percent which included 4.89 percent loss at trader level. Regression analyses delineated that in bitter gourd, area under cultivation, unfavourable weather conditions, pests and diseases and use of packing materials like jute sacks and wooden baskets were found as major determinants for losses. Whereas, area under cultivation, experience in farming and prevailing pests and diseases in snake gourd were found to affect the volume of post-harvest losses at farm level. The study found that adoption of proper post-harvest handling practices by farmers would help minimizing the losses to a remarkable extent. Besides, analysis of farmers’ perception, brought out the fact that the farmers aware of losses incurred only to a limited extent.

Total yeast and mold levels in high THC-containing cannabis (Cannabis sativa L.) inflorescences are influenced by genotype, environment, and pre-and post-harvest handling practices.

Total yeast and mold (TYM) levels in inflorescences of high THC-containing Cannabis sativa (cannabis) are regulated to ensure that medicinal and recreational users, especially those with immunocompromised systems, are not exposed to potentially harmful levels. In North America, the limits imposed range from 1,000-10,000 cfu/g of dried product to 50,000-100,000 cfu/g, depending on the jurisdiction. Factors affecting a build-up of TYM in cannabis inflorescences have not been previously researched. In this study, >2,000 fresh and dried samples were assayed for TYM over a 3-year period (2019-2022) to identify specific factors which can contribute to TYM levels. Greenhouse-grown inflorescences were sampled before and after commercial harvest, homogenized for 30 s, and plated onto potato dextrose agar (PDA) with 140 mg/L streptomycin sulfate. Colony-forming-units (cfu) were rated after 5 days of incubation at 23°C under 10-14 h light. PDA provided more consistent counts of cfu compared to Sabouraud dextrose and tryptic soy agars. The predominant fungal genera identified by PCR of the ITS1-5.8S-ITS2 region of rDNA were Penicillium, Aspergillus, Cladosporium, and Fusarium. In addition, four yeast genera were recovered. In total, 21 species of fungi and yeasts constituted the total cfu present in the inflorescences. The variables that significantly (p < 0.05) increased these TYM levels in inflorescences were: the genotype (strain) grown, presence of leaf litter in the greenhouse, harvesting activity by workers, genotypes with a higher abundance of stigmatic tissues and inflorescence leaves, higher temperature and relative humidity within the inflorescence microclimate, time of year (May-October), method of drying buds after harvest, and inadequate drying of buds. The variables which significantly (p < 0.05) decreased TYM in samples were: genotypes with lower numbers of inflorescence leaves, air circulation achieved by fans during inflorescence maturation, harvesting during November-April, hang-drying of entire inflorescence stems, and drying to a moisture content of 12-14% (water activity of 0.65-0.7) or lower which was inversely correlated with cfu levels. Under these conditions, the majority of dried commercial cannabis samples contained <1,000-5,000 cfu/g. Our findings indicate that TYM in cannabis inflorescences are the result of a dynamic interaction between genotype, environment, and post-harvest handling methods. Some of these factors may be altered by cannabis producers to reduce the potential build-up of these microbes. Among the 21 fungal and yeast species recovered from greenhouse-grown cannabis inflorescences, a few could pose a potential threat to human health, while many do not and they could provide beneficial interactions within the cannabis plant. The currently recommended plating methods onto agar media and enumeration of total cfu are unable to distinguish between these two groups.

Assessment of Cassava Utilization Patterns, Postharvest Handling Practices, and Productivity Influencing Factors in South and Southwest Ethiopia

Cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) is mainly produced to supplement food security by providing food for smallholder farmers year round. However, its production is constrained by various factors. Thus, the aim of this research was to assess cassava utilization patterns, postharvest handling practices, and the factors that influence productivity. Data were gathered from primary and secondary sources, and a multistage sampling procedure was used to select 200 HHs. A multiple regression model and descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data. The regression model revealed that the education level, family size, land holding size, cropping system, crop rotation, earthing up rate, maturity, variety type, training, and plant population variables were significantly and positively correlated with cassava productivity. This implies that if any of these variables increases, cassava productivity will increase while the other variables remain constant. Topography and pest variables showed a significant negative correlation, indicating that an undulating topography or being attacked by pests could reduce cassava productivity by 60.00%. The descriptive statistics results for the utilization proportion showed that 51.87% of the farmers utilized for home consumption, 43.68% for the market, and 4.26% for animal feed. The consumption pattern indicated that 46.50% was boiled roots, 15.00% was flour cooked, and 38.50% was boiled roots and flour cooked. As postharvest handling practices showed, 10.00% of the farmers immediately processed to powder, 18.00% immediately processed to sliced (chips), 61.00% left them to root in the soil, and 11.00% did nothing. This indicates that the farmers’ consumption patterns and processing methods are very traditional. Therefore, the study suggested that the farmers’ different practices should be further supported by research through the generation of multiple food forms, postharvest handling practices, and production technology. Proper attention should also be given to address the identified productivity-influencing factors as well as postharvest handling practices. These could sustain the farming system of the crop and help to increase cassava productivity for smallholder farmers.

Assessment and characterization of postharvest handling techniques in the value chain of Malay apple (Syzygium malaccense [L.] Merr. & L.M. Perry) in the Mount Cameroon region

The study examined the problem of excessive postharvest losses (PHLs) of Malay apples due to inadequate postharvest handling, which is hindering the growing demand for the fruit. The study surveyed 160 growers and 40 traders using semi-structured questionnaires to assess postharvest handling practices and propose storage techniques in the Mount Cameroon Region. Data were obtained via face-to-face interviews using semi-structured questionnaires. The data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Also, the effects of control (no application), hot water dip, 1-MCP, and Aloe vera gel treatments on the quality of Malay apples stored at room temperature for 24 days were examined using a completely randomised design. Chi-square results showed a significant (p< 0.05) association between sociodemographic factors [gender (χ2 = 25.004, p = 0.050), educational level (χ2 = 63.797, p = 0.034), and farming experience (χ2 = 48.87, p = 0.047)] and PHLs. Results showed that inadequate postharvest handling was leading to excessive PHLs, and appropriate postharvest techniques were necessary to maintain the fruit's quality and reduce losses. Significant differences were observed among harvesting, transportation and storage methods, packaging materials, and marketing methods, with harvest and storage showing higher PHLs of 40% and 35%, respectively. The study also found that 1-MCP and Aloe vera were effective in extending the storage life of Malay apples while maintaining quality. The study concluded that growers and traders should adopt proper postharvest techniques in their operations, including handpicking, and application of 1-MCP or Aloe vera gel coating to reduce PHLs and maintain fruit quality for 12 days. Overall, the study highlights the importance of better postharvest handling practices and storage techniques to reduce postharvest losses and improve the supply chain's efficiency. Future research could explore the applicability of these findings on other fruits and geographical locations, and investigate the underlying mechanisms that contribute to the effectiveness of these treatments.

The rise and fall of onion production; its multiple constraints on pre-harvest and post-harvest management issues along the supply chain in northwest Ethiopia

Food and nutrition security is not only addressed by increasing production alone, it should also ensure by reducing food loss. Onion has a great contribution to both economic and health issues, however, its production and productivity in the country is low. Thus, the study was initiated to identify multiple constraints on onion production and postharvest handling practices and to determine the extent of postharvest loss along the supply chain in northwestern Ethiopia. The survey was conducted on production, marketing, and consumption at farm, wholesale, retailer, and consumers level. The multistage sampling procedure was employed. The present results revealed that sex, age, educational level, production experience, land covered by onion, and household size has a significant influence on onion production. Sex, age, education level, active household size, selling experience, amount purchased, and storage duration have a significant association with onion production and postharvest loss. Major onion production and post-harvest loss constraints were high perishability, nature of the crop, market, linkage problem and low market price, lack of awareness of using post-harvest technologies, absence of better storable varieties, shortage of fertilizer access, disease and insect pests. The whole purchased produce never reached the consumer's hands. The total postharvest loss of onion at the farmer, wholesale, retail, and consumer level was found to be 29.775%, of which the higher proportion of losses (35.5%) was observed at the farmer's level. Based on the findings of the present study, onion producers were challenged by timely and adequate supplies and unfair, high cost of major production inputs, and high post-harvest loss. Therefore, producers and handlers in each supply chain need to be trained on affordable and applicable postharvest technologies. In addition, continuous capacity-building training, improving infrastructures, and input access along the supply chain should be designed and implemented to improve better crop management and postharvest handling practices. Moreover, marketing cooperatives working on onion postharvest handling and marketing systems should be functional to absorb surplus production and ensure continuous supply to the market. Thus, meaningful interventions in the development and implementation of policy on sustainable production, handling practices, and supply of onion should be designed.

Adoption of post-harvest handling practices by ginger farmers in Palpa district, Nepal

Ginger has the potential for export and increased income for farmers in Nepal. Proper post-harvest handling practices has led to low market prices and significant post-harvest losses of ginger. This study was conducted in Palpa district to examine the post-harvest practices and technology adoption among ginger farmers. Data from 66 farmers in Bagnashkali, Purbakhola, Nisdi, and Rampur municipalities was collected through interviews, key informant interviews, and focus group discussions. Descriptive analysis was performed using MS Excel and SPSS. Results showed that 72.7% of farmers practiced storage, with Bhakari (60.41%) and Pit (39.59%) being the common storage types. Storage molds affected 72.2% of respondents, while 28.8% reported wrinkling during storage. Washing was practiced by only 7.6% of farmers. Manual grading was reported by all respondents, with no commercial grading observed. Black sutho production was carried out by 65.2% of farmers. Value addition activities such as sorting were practiced by 65% of respondents, while 25% engaged in transportation and packaging. Respondents\&amp;apos; awareness of ginger post-harvest practices varied, with 75.76% having low awareness, 16.66% medium awareness, and 7.58% high awareness. Farmers\&amp;apos; general precautions during harvesting, such as avoiding rhizome injury and minimal trimming and sorting, were not accompanied by specific precautionary practices, contributing to their challenges. The findings emphasize the importance of adopting modern post-harvest practices to increase production, improve product quality, and command higher market prices. Implementing these measures will enable ginger farmers in Palpa district to enhance their income and contribute to the growth of the ginger industry in Nepal.

Resource Management in Naga King Chilli Production: Evidence from Nagaland, India

This paper analyzes resource management and the problems faced by Naga chilli growers in Nagaland. A total of 100 respondents were chosen randomly for the study, comprising of 50 farmers, 20 intermediaries and 30 customers. Findings shows that the growers practiced organic cultivation and the profit earned by chain players per kg of Naga King chillies is comparatively higher than other normal chillies in the study area. The total number of working days required for the production and cultivation of NK chilli was 183 days/ha/year, respectively. The return over cost (2.80) shows that Naga Kingh chilli production is remunerative for the growers of the study area. Major problems faced by the growers in the study area identified were wide fluctuation in price, availability/ supply shortage, handling and storage problems, perishable nature of chilli, etc. Initiating post-harvest handling practices for the tribal farmer, proper/scientific storages (like zero cooling chamber, cold storages,) forming cooperatives / FPO’s, trainings could be initiated through KVK, NGO’S, state departments, etc. could be used for retaining the shelf life of the chilli.