Reduction Of Post-harvest Losses Research Articles

The Role of Modified Atmosphere Packaging in Reducing Postharvest Losses a

Modified Atmosphere Storage (MAS) and Packaging (MAP) are advanced preservation technologies widely utilized in the post-harvest handling of fruits, vegetables, and poultry products to extend shelf life, maintain quality, and reduce spoilage. These methods involve altering the atmospheric composition within storage or packaging environments, typically by reducing oxygen levels and increasing carbon dioxide concentrations. The three main gases utilized in food processing are carbon dioxide (CO2), nitrogen (N2), and oxygen (O2). The majority of fresh fruits, vegetables, and food items are made using various combinations of two or three of these gases, depending on what the demands of the particular product are. Generally, a 30–60% CO2 split is utilized for non-respiring items, where microbial growth is the primary spoiling characteristic. The remaining amount can either be pure N2 (for foods sensitive to O2) or a combination of N2 and O2. In order to minimize the respiration rate, around 5% CO2 and O2 are often employed for respiring products gas level, with N2 making up the remaining amount. This creates conditions that slow down metabolic activities, microbial growth, and oxidative reactions. For fruits and vegetables, MAS and MAP help in delaying ripening, reducing respiration rates, and maintaining texture and nutritional value. In the case of poultry products, these technologies are crucial in minimizing microbial contamination, preventing spoilage, and maintaining sensory attributes such as colour, flavour, and tenderness.

Do Agricultural stakeholder panels enhance post-harvest loss reduction? Evidence from Malawi

Post-harvest loss significantly affects food security in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) and elsewhere across developing countries. Weak institutional factors like ineffective agricultural extension services in rural communities can exacerbate such problems among smallholder farmers in SSA and other developing countries. Therefore, international development policies have prioritized strengthening rural extension systems to enhance access to effective extension services and thereby enhance food security outcomes like ineffective agriculturalpost-harvest loss reduction among rural households. As such, the US-Agency for International Development supported the Strengthening Agricultural and Nutrition Extension program in Malawi from 2015 to 2021 to improve access to rural extension services by promoting Agricultural Stakeholder Panels (ASPs)—platforms designed to enhance farmer interaction with local extension agents in rural communities and thereby enhance improved access to quality extension services in rural areas. The ASP approach can reduce post-harvest losses for major crops, such as maize. However, rigorous analyses of the effects of ASPs on post-harvest loss reduction remain limited. To address this knowledge gap, we apply recursive bivariate probit regression to primary survey data from 2134 households in Malawi to estimate the effects of the ASP approach on post-harvest loss reduction in 2018. The results show that ASPs reduced post-harvest losses among households by 53%, and a crucial outcome that can improve household food security. The result demonstrates that policies that strengthen rural extension systems can contribute to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals on hunger and food security in rural Malawi and similar contexts.

POST-HARVEST LOSSES OF MAIZE SUPPLY CHAIN IN PUNJAB, PAKISTAN

Maize holds significant importance in Pakistan's agricultural sector, as it is among the primary cereal crops grown extensively throughout the country. The growing food demand due to the increasing population is a significant issue. Post-harvest losses (PHL) of maize relate to losses that happen laterally in the whole grain logistics network, after harvest to final consumption. The study was conducted in the district Vehari to assess the different types of post-harvest losses and identify the underlying factors responsible for such losses in the maize supply chain. For this purpose, data were collected from 210 respondents by using purposive samplingtechnique. The sample size includes 120 growers, 30 village traders, 30 commission agents cum wholesaler and 30 retailers. Structured questionnaires were used to gather data from major supply chain actors. The study findings revealed that the average losses at the grower’s level, village traders, commission agent cum wholesaler and retailer were 12.21, 2.36, 3.21 and 1.01 percent of the total production respectively. It is recommended that the implementation of modern storage facilities, drying using advanced technologies, training programs for the supply chain actors, financial innovations, and efficient transportation systems will result in significant reduction of post-harvest losses (PHL) in maize production and thus contribute to food security.

Impact of Fruit Maturity on Internal Disorders in Vapor Heat Treated Mango Cv. ‘B74’

UN Sustainable Development Goal 12 (SDG 12) aims to reduce food losses in production and postharvest stages within supply chains. Identifying and addressing contributors to such losses is crucial to their reduction and to overall supply chain sustainability. Internal disorders (IDs) often contribute to postharvest losses and waste of highly perishable fruits like mangoes. Understanding and addressing influencers of susceptibility is limited but essential. Factors potentially associated with the expression of IDs in ‘B74’ mango commercial supply chains were investigated. Over three fruiting seasons (2020/21, 2021/22, and 2022/23), 43 export supply chains in Australia were monitored from two major production regions, the Northern Territory and North Queensland. Prior to export, the mangoes were subject to a mandatory phytosanitary vapor heat treatment (VHT) in which they were heated with saturated water vapor to a core temperature 46 °C maintained for 15 min and were then assessed for IDs at the end of their shelf life. The predominant IDs observed in the ‘B74’ fruit were flesh cavity with white patches (FCWP) and flesh browning (FB). VHT-induced FCWP, but not FB. Harvest maturity was identified as a predisposing factor. FB was generally positively correlated and FCWP was typically negatively correlated with fruit maturity at harvest. Relatively more-mature fruit was prone to FB irrespective of VHT, and relatively less-mature fruit was susceptible to FCWP post-VHT. Therefore, selective harvesting and/or sorting for optimum maturity after harvest can be practiced minimizing the incidence and severity of these two IDs in ‘B74’ fruit. Thus, dry matter (DM) sorting can contribute to postharvest loss reduction and the general sustainability of mango supply chains.

Food waste and the EU target: effects on the agrifood systems’ sustainability

ABSTRACT The reduction of food losses and waste is part of the 2030 Agenda Sustainable Development Goals (target 12.3) and, consequently, is one of the EU’s political priority in the field of circular economy. In this framework, the target 12.3 of the UN’s 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development stated, by 2030, a not quantified reduction in post-harvest losses and a halving of food waste at the retail and consumers levels; while the EU Commission has recently set the target, by 2030, of reducing by 10% food losses occurred at the stage of processing and manufacturing and by 30% food waste occurred at the stage of retail and consumption. Food losses and waste should primarily be considered an expression of inefficiency of agricultural production processes determining several environmental, social and economic impacts. The quantification of food losses and waste is still an unsolved problem so much so that, in EU; currently available data are only related to the period 2020–2021 and, in many cases, are based on estimates and are not uniform in individual Member States. This makes reliable predictions of results achievable by the European Union particularly difficult. The aim of this paper is to analyze whether the plan of losses and waste reduction established by the EU Commission is able to both ensure the achievement of 2030 Agenda target 12.3 and to make a contribution to improving the sustainability of agri-food systems. In doing so, in addition to Eurostat data on losses and waste, the EU-Commission projections and the latest results of recent studies on environmental, social and economic impact of food losses and waste in EU were used, including indicators on hidden costs of agrifood systems developed by FAO. What observed shows that the EU-Commission reduction plan, if implemented, should result in a reduction of losses and waste inadequate for complying with the recommendation given by the target 12.3. Furthermore, the EU-Commission’s decision not to provide for losses reduction at the agricultural stage should significantly limit environmental benefits, given that much of the negative environmental impacts (GHG, land and water use, etc.) are ascribable to this stage as are, according to FAO estimates, hidden environmental costs. Besides limiting environmental benefits, the EU-Commission reduction plan, focusing only on the food losses and waste reduction in the final stage of supply food chain, could lead to negative social and economic impacts caused by a decline in the demand, which will reduce supply, jobs losses and GDP reduction. The conclusion on this, is that the reduction of food losses and waste is an issue that cannot be addressed separated but needs to be included in a wider program of integrated and complementary measures as a whole clearly aimed at realizing forms of circular economy.

Does Post-Harvest Losses Matter on Farmers Profitability? Evidence From Smallholder Grape Farmer’s in Dodoma, Tanzania

This study analysed post-harvest losses of grapes and their effects on profitability of smallholder grape farmers in Dodoma. Cross section survey using structured questionnaire was used to collect primary data from 240 grape farmers who were selected through a random sampling procedure. Descriptive statistics, paired t-test, gross margin and multiple regression analysis were used to achieve the objectives of this study. Results show that, the average quantity of grape yields by smallholder grape farmers’ in Dodoma was 7.7 tonnes/ha. Out of these, 1.65 tonnes/ha equivalent to 20.9% of the total grape harvested were lost. Based on multiple regression model, results showed that post-harvest losses have significant effect on the profit of smallholder grape farmers in Dodoma (p<0.01) by 13.9%. The observation is implied by a lower profit with loss (1.8 million/ha) compared to profit without loss (2.9 million /ha) received by farmers’ from the gross margin analysis. The study concludes that a substantial proportion of grapes produced did not reach the final consumers due to post-harvest losses which had significant effect on farmers’ profitability. It is recommended that reduction in post-harvest losses in grape farming should be of utmost priority in any efforts of improving farmers’ profit. These efforts may entail provision of adequate training to farmers on post-harvest losses and handling techniques to create awareness among actors and investing in post-harvest technologies to prolong grapes’ shelf life, reduce post-harvest losses and increase profit of smallholder grape farmers

Postharvest practices and loss determinants for interventions among smallholder potato farmers in Tiyo district, Arsi zone, Ethiopia

Postharvest loss reduction, which will contribute to several sustainable development goals (SDGs) including SDG 1, 2, 3, 9, 12 and 13, is an important strategy for food and nutrition security. It requires interventions designed based on timely and reliable statistical data. However, lack of produce-specific loss data and associated factors along the postharvest value chain stages remains a challenge to implement appropriate interventions. Therefore, a survey was conducted on socio-demographic characteristics, postharvest practices, extent and causes of losses, and factors influencing postharvest loss of potato crops in Tiyo district of Arsi Zone, Ethiopia in 2022. A multistage sampling method was used to select a total of 209 smallholder potato farming household heads through a combination of purposive and simple random sampling techniques. Quantitative data collection was carried out online using computer-assisted personal interviewing (CAPI) by programming a semi-structured questionnaire in KoboCollect software for tablets. Descriptive statistics and ordinal probit regression model were used to analyze the collected data and determinant factors influencing postharvest loss of potatoes at various farm-level stages, respectively. An aggregate of 15-46% loss exists between harvesting and marketing. Losses during harvesting, sorting, cleaning, packaging, field-to-storage transport, storage, and storage-to-market transport were 58.9%, 6.2%, 2.9%, 2.4%, 3.8%, 20.1%, and 5.7%, respectively. Elevated loss during harvesting and storage in the area is likely to reflect poor handling and storage practices. The primary causes of losses were poor harvesting and handling techniques, poor storage facility, and insects and worms. Moreover, regression model estimations of categorical losses, as perceived by farmers, reveal that socio-demographic variables and postharvest factors influenced potato loss. During the harvest stage, working family members significantly (p<0.01) increased loss while years of schooling (p<0.05) significantly reduced loss. In addition, harvesting using leaf color change observation as a criterion had significantly (p<0.01) mitigated potato loss. In storage, female respondents (p<0.05), land size (p<0.05), and lack of training (p<0.1) had accentuated loss. During transport, the age of household reduced (p<0.1) loss whereas farming experience promoted (p<0.1) it. To reduce the existing losses, farmers’ awareness should be increased concerning each stage. The study recommends the need for stakeholders’ intervention focusing on postharvest knowledge and skill capacity building, demonstration of simple innovative ventilated storage construction using locally available materials, appropriate packaging (such as reusable plastic crates) and transport methods, and simple value addition methods (such as potato drying using indirect solar dryers and potato flour processing for fortifying local cereals). Key words: CAPI, Ethiopia, ordinal probit regression, postharvest practices, potato loss determinants

Natural Compounds and Derivates: Alternative Treatments to Reduce Post-Harvest Losses in Fruits

The effects of phytopathogenic fungi on fruits and vegetables are a significant global concern, impacting various sectors including social, economic, environmental, and consumer health. This issue results in diminished product quality, affecting a high percentage of globally important fruits. Over the last 20 years, the use of chemical products in the agri-food sector has increased by 30%, leading to environmental problems such as harm to main pollinators, high levels of chemical residue levels, development of resistance in various phytopathogens, and health issues. As a response, various organizations worldwide have proposed programs aimed at reducing the concentration of active compounds in these products. Priority is given to alternative treatments that can mitigate environmental impact, control phytopathogens, and ensure low residuality and toxicity in fruits and vegetables. This review article presents the mechanisms of action of three alternative treatments: chitosan, citral, and hexanal. These treatments have the potential to affect the development of various pathogenic fungi found in tropical and subtropical fruits. It is important to note that further studies to verify the effects of these treatments, particularly when used in combination, are needed. Integrating the mechanisms of action of each treatment and exploring the possibility of generating a broad-spectrum effect on the development of pathogenic microorganisms in fruits is essential for a comprehensive understanding and effective management.

Gold nanoparticles-based colorimetric method for the rapid and sensitive detection of sour rot in onions

Onion (Allium cepa L.) is a major vegetable used in food preparation. It can also act as a medicinal compound for many diseases. However, various plant diseases, including sour rot, caused by the bacterium Burkholderia cepacia, is a post-harvest disease that can cause significant economic losses in onions and are considered a major threat to the onion industry. This study was performed to compare two methods for detecting sour rot: multiplex PCR and colorimetry with gold nanoparticles probe. Multiplex PCR used, primers designed for RecA, APZ15-03995 and APZ15-27735 genes of B. cepacia, and the results showed 100% specificity and sensitivity of 74.4 × 10−4 ng/μL of genomic DNA. Colorimetry with gold nanoparticles probe was performed using individual gene probes or a combination of three gene probes as a multi-colorimetric assay. Results showed 100% specificity and sensitivity of 74.4 × 10−8 ng/μL of genomic DNA in presence of the three probes. The results showed that both methods are specific and sensitive enough to detect B. cepacia. However, the use of gold nanoparticles is a more suitable option due to its high specificity and sensitivity and shorter time compared to multiplex PCR. Consequently, accurate and timely molecular identification of onion rot helps reduction of post-harvest losses and prevent the spread of secondary bacteria in storage.

How to Reduce Post-Harvest Losses ? A Theoretical Assessment of a Support Policy versus a Regulation Policy.

L’article analyse deux politiques publiques mises en œuvre pour réduire les pertes alimentaires post-récolte : une politique basée sur une norme logistique minimale (MLS) imposée aux producteurs et une politique basée sur le subventionnement de la logistique des producteurs. Nous proposons un modèle de différenciation spatiale où les producteurs de produits périssables sont géographiquement situés et plus ou moins éloignés d’un marché de gros. Nous évaluons différents effets de ces politiques : effets directs (sur les pertes alimentaires) et effets « collatéraux » (sur les prix et sur l’exclusion des producteurs). Par rapport à la situation sans intervention publique, l’imposition d’un MLS améliore uniquement l’infrastructure des producteurs les plus proches du marché, tandis qu’une subvention publique est plus efficace pour améliorer l’infrastructure des producteurs les plus éloignés du marché. Nous montrons que les autorités publiques peuvent être confrontées à un dilemme : i) choisir un MLS plus efficace pour réduire le risque de perte alimentaire mais avec des effets plus négatifs sur l’inclusion des producteurs et sur le bien-être social ; ii) choisir une politique de subvention moins efficace pour réduire les pertes alimentaires mais (si le niveau n’est pas trop élevé) avec des externalités plus positives sur les autres critères. Classification JEL : L11, R39, C61, D21

Assessment of factors influencing adoption of postharvest loss reduction practices along the mango value chain in Embu, Machakos, and Nairobi counties, Kenya

Use of loss reduction practices are critical to ensuring losses are reduced significantly along the value chain. This necessitates for the need to assess the factors that influence adoption of the loss reductio practices to have better targeting and development. Therefore, the current study assessed the factors that influence adoption, and multistage sampling technique was employed. The counties and the sub-counties were purposively selected, and the mapping began from Nairobi which is the main market for mangoes. Wholesalers, and retailers were interviewed making use of snowballing, while farmers were randomly selected. A total of 70 farmers were selected, 74 wholesalers, and 98 retailers were sampled.From the study, at the farm level results revealed that about 38.7 % of the farmer respondents prefer use of stick and bag. On the other hand, about 37.1 % of farmers in Machakos had preference of hand picking as the main method of harvesting. Wholesaler preferred the use of cartons in Nairobi, while those in Embu and Machakos had higher preference of use of shades. Result from the empirical model showed that credit was a critical factor to use of the practices at the farm with a 40 % influence on use of multiple practices. Experiencing higher losses influenced adoption of the practices by 4.3 %, and would influence use of multiple practices by 19.2 %. Organized selling was the critical factor for wholesalers and influenced adoption by 43.4 %.Retailers in Embu and Machakos on the other hand, were 19.9 % less likely to take up the practices. The results further showed that higher PHL influence retailer to take up loss reduction practices by 30.2 %, and those that were more experience were 20 % more likely to take up the practices.From the result it was thus concluded that cost effectiveness, ability to reduce losses, and increase of incomes were some of the things actors were interested with before they could take up any loss reduction practice. Through the study it was evident that high PHL less to higher use of the practices, and also positively influence the intensity of use of the practices. It was thus recommended that there is need for upgrading the current low-cost technologies to make them more user friendly so that they are not time-wasting during harvest, and for the traders they are able to carry optimal quantities that lead to profit maximization.

Oligogalacturonides reduced postharvest losses by alleviating mechanical damage in Goji berry (Lycium barbarum Miller)

Goji berry (Lycium barbarum) is a typical berry with a tender and thin pericarp, high moisture content and hollow interior, making it highly susceptible to mechanical damage caused by harvest and transportation. As a consequence, this susceptibility results in considerable economic losses within the fresh produce industry due to the degradation of fruit quality and subsequent decay. Here, oligogalacturonides (OGs), a well-characterized plant damage-associated molecular pattern, were applied to reduce postharvest loss and extend the shelf life of berries of the goji cultivar NingQi1. The loss rate in the OGs treatment was 44.45 % lower than that in the 0.8 mm compression treatments on Day 6, and the OGs treatment also effectively inhibited softening and delayed weight loss. The activity of superoxide dismutase increased by 27.4 % on the 4th day after OGs treatment, accompanied by a decrease in malondialdehyde content ranging from 14.2 % to 24.8 % on days 2 to 4 compared to the control group. Furthermore, the phenylalanine ammonia-lyase activity of OGs-treated goji berries was 57.0 % higher than that of the control at 6th days, which slowed the reduction in secondary metabolites such as total flavonoids. The findings of this study indicated that OGs may reduce postharvest losses caused by mechanical damage, extend the shelf life of goji berry by reducing softening and weight loss, and reduce wounding injury by minimizing free radical form of reactive oxygen species.

Effect of Asparagus Chitosan-Rutin Coating on Losses and Waste Reduction During Storage

Abstract Storage is a crucial component of a sustainable and efficient food supply system. Reduction of postharvest losses and waste is a vital strategy to improve efficiency, ensure product availability, and reduce environmental impact. Asparagus (Asparagus officinalis L.) boasts a high nutritional value and complex of phytonutrients. Yet, the storage period for fresh asparagus is quite short, leading to rapid quality deterioration. An effective method to extend storage periods involves postharvest treatments using the natural biopolymer chitosan. The aim of the research was to assess the effectiveness of applying sustainable postharvest treatments based on chitosan and rutin, with a focus on losses and waste reduction during asparagus storage. The impact of the applied storage technology on the visual appeal and sensory attributes of asparagus, along with its effects on respiratory metabolism, weight loss, soluble solids, soluble carbohydrates, chlorophylls, and carotenoids, was systematically assessed. The findings indicate that the post-harvest treatment using chitosan and rutin effectively preserves the visual characteristics of asparaguswhen the storage period is prolonged to a week. A major advantage of this technology is a substantial reduction in waste, achieving the levels of 1.0-1.5%. The proportion of standard products post-storage ranged from 94.4% to 96.0%. The treatment with chitosan and rutin efficiently reduces weight loss by half and suppresses the respiration rate, leading to decreased losses in soluble solids, carbohydrates, chlorophylls, and carotenoids during storage. These outcomes underscore the effectiveness of the applied coating in impeding metabolic processes, resulting in minimized quantitative and qualitative losses in the product quality during a prolonged storage.

Colour, nutritional composition and antioxidant properties of dehydrated carrot (Daucus carota var. sativus) using solar drying techniques and pretreatments

Carrot is a seasonal perishable tuberous root vegetable which presents a preservation challenge owing to its elevated moisture content. Recently, carrot processing has received more attention because of its many health-promoting qualities and the reduction of postharvest losses in a cost-effective safe way. This study was designed to sort out the effective solar drying technique including pre-treatment that would retain the color and quality characteristics of dehydrated carrot. Carrot slices were subjected to dry using open sun drying (D1), solar drying long chimney (D2), solar drying short chimney (D3) and box solar drying (D4) techniques with the pretreatments of ascorbic acid 1 % (C3), citric acid 5 % (C4), potassium metabisulfite 1 % (C5) and potassium sodium tartrate 0.3 % (C6) before drying. Drying characteristics, nutritional attributes, phytochemicals and antioxidant of the dehydrated carrot samples were compared with the fresh sample and untreated (control) sample. Results showed that D4 was a good drying method to preserve nutritional quality with good appearance. Among the pretreatments, C5 and C4 resulted improved nutritional quality retention, enhanced visual acceptability and enriched antioxidant activities. PCA (Principal Component Analysis) and correlation matrix revealed that D4 with C5 retained the maximum amount of vitamin, minerals, total phenolic content, antioxidant and admirable dehydrated carrot color by inactivating enzymatic reaction. Therefore, box solar drying with potassium metabisulfite pretreatment would be very promising for functional carrot drying retaining acceptable color and nutrition composition.

Use of a forced convection solar dryer for the reduction of post-harvest losses: case of the ‘akikon’ tomato variety in benin (West Africa)

The local variety tomato (Lycopercicum esculentum Mill) named ‘akikon’ is one of the most consumed and widely cultivated fruiting vegetables in Benin Republic. In this work, we designed and built a dryer usable for limiting the frequent losses of the massive produced tomatoes. This paper analyzes the first results, obtained from the different experiments carried out with the developed dryer, in a context of forced convection. The results showed that increasing the temperature from 55 to 70 °C resulted in a shorter drying time decreasing from 1266 to 672 min with a brighter colour of the dried tomatoes for 70 °C. However, the increase of temperature does not affect the smell of the dried tomatoes. After drying, 7 to 8 months were required before we notice a colour change (from red to red-brown) of the dried product , indicating that the storage method still needs to be improved.

Why cassava processors will patronize mechanized cassava peeling machine service

Cassava peeling machines are available but are inaccessible and prohibitively expensive, especially for small-scale processors to acquire. This paper examines the perception and willingness of smallholder cassava processors to pay for cassava peeling machine services using data from 300 cassava processors in the Bono East Region of Ghana. A perception index from a 5-point Likert Scale and Cragg’s Double Hurdle model were the methods of analysis. The results revealed a perception index of 2.54 and this implies that cassava processors have neutral perception about the cassava peeling machine service. Also, it was found that majority of the processors (75.33%) are not aware of existence of the cassava peeling machine. In addition, we find that 99.63% of the cassava processors are willing to patronize the services of the cassava peeling machine. Moreover, cassava processors are willing to pay an average amount of GH₵ 4.21 for a 50 kg bag of cassava peeled using the services of the cassava peeling machine. Furthermore, the study revealed that factors such as educational level, quantity produced per processing cycle and the dependence on cassava processing as the main source of income positively and significantly influenced willingness to pay for the services. Finally, the amount processors were willing to pay was influenced by educational level, household size, source of income, perception about machine’s complications and group membership. The study recommends that investors consider installing cassava peeling machines to provide commercial cassava peeling services in processing areas. While generating income to investors, it will contribute to reducing postharvest losses during cassava processing. Future efforts should focus on raising awareness about the availability and benefits of commercialization of mechanized peeling of cassava.

EFFECT OF ETHANOLIC EXTRACT OF BLACK PEPPER (Piper nigrum) ON PRESERVATION OF AFRICAN CATFISH (Clarias gariepinus)

Fish preservation is an important stage of fish production as it helps in the reduction of post-harvest losses. This leads to the study of ethanolic extract of black pepper as a preservative of African catfish. A sample size of five (5) fish of average weight 600g for each treatment were slaughtered and gutted before they were dipped in the black pepper extract for 10minutes and 20 minutes in separate bowls. The fish samples that had been preserved with the plant extract were monitored for spoilage at an interval of four (4) hours for the period of forty eight (48) hours and the organoleptic characteristics were observed and recorded. The shelf life of the experimental African catfish was extended from 20 hours as seen in the unpreserved sample to between 24 – 26 hours in the preserved sample. The study also indicated that the duration of dip did not have any effect on the preservative action of black pepper seed extract and this was because the extract was only able to extend the shelf life of the sample to 24 – 26 hours before becoming unfit for consumption at 28 hours for both the 10 and 20 minutes dipping durations. It can therefore be concluded from the findings of this research that African catfish can be preserved using natural preservatives (plants) and thereby reducing post-harvest losses.

Nutritional and Sensory Evaluation of Yoghurt Incorporated with Unripe False Horn Plantain (Musa paradisiaca var. "apentu").

Unripe plantain (Musa paradisiaca L.) is rich in nutrients including minerals, vitamin C, and carbohydrates particularly resistant starches with prebiotic properties. However, the fruit is challenged with limited utilisation, and this contributes to its high postharvest losses along the production and supply chain. Information is lacking on incorporating plantain (UPF) in functional dairy food product development. In a completely randomized design, the study evaluated the effect of unripe false horn plantain (var. "apentu") flour (UPF) incorporation (w/v), at 0% (control), 2%, 4%, and 6%, on the composition and sensory quality of yoghurt. The results showed that higher UPF percent incorporation resulted in yoghurts having lower moisture and higher total solid values as well as enhanced nutritional values, in terms of protein, zinc, potassium, calcium, and vitamin C (P < 0.05). Mean pH and total titratable acidity values of the yoghurt products were in the ranges of 3.40-3.65 and 1.00-130%, respectively. Conversely, an increase in UPF incorporation generally reduced consumer likeness scores for yoghurt sensory characteristics including appearance, texture, flavour, taste, aftertaste, and overall acceptability. The control AZ product received the highest ratings in all sensory attributes evaluated. Compared with the control AZ, the BX (2% w/w UPF) yoghurt showed better nutritional quality as well as had comparable ratings for the sensory attributes, particularly in terms of appearance, texture, and flavour. Thus, the formulation containing 2% UPF has the best potential for the production of value-added functional yoghurt, which will be acceptable. However, for high acceptability, further research is needed to improve the impact of UPF incorporation on the overall sensory quality of yoghurt. The study suggests that UPF can serve as a potential supplement for improving the value of yoghurt, and this also contributes to reducing postharvest losses of plantain as a key food security resource. Also, the study findings contribute baseline information to guide future research on functional dairy product development with unripe plantain.

Yieldwise model adoption on post-harvest loss reduction and livelihood of smallholder maize farmers in the Wa Municipality of Ghana

This study sought to assess the impact of adoption of the YieldWise model on postharvest loss reduction and livelihood of smallholder maize farmers in the Wa Municipality using an established crop aggregation center, Antika for a case study. The study employed random and purposive sampling techniques to sample 140 smallholder maize farmers and 10 Antika crop aggregation center managers in the Wa Municipality. A well-structured questionnaire was used to obtain data from the selected sample population. The findings revealed that the timelines of input supply, ready market, access to extension service, availability of recommended inputs, and training on post-harvest loss reduction are factors influencing the adoption of the YieldWise model by smallholder farmers in the Wa Municipality. The availability of recommended inputs was the main influencing factor, followed by access to extension service, while ready market was the least. The introduction of the YieldWise model had an impact on the harvesting and postharvest loss reduction among smallholder maize farmers in the selected study area. The adoption of the model contributed to a reduction in harvesting losses by an average of 46.24 kg/ha (25.66 %), reduction in shelling and threshing losses by 28.11 kg/ha (19.74 %), reduction in storage losses 12.85 kg/ha (54.99 %), whereas transportation losses remained almost same; thus, 0.62 kg/ha and 0.68 kg/ha for Antika and non-Antika farmers respectively. The study revealed that, the adoption of the YieldWise model by Antika for it business operation has contributed to the improvement of the livelihood of smallholder maize farmers in the Wa Municipality. Many farmers (30.4 %) could secure food for their families throughout the year, 26.5 % could pay for their children’s school fees, 17.1 % of the farmers have been able to purchase a motorcycle or tricycle, 11.1 % of the farmers have been able to expand their main occupation, 10.6% have built new houses, and 4.3 % have been able to marry. The study recommends that a ready market is incorporated into the YieldWise model to help farmers market their produce promptly. The model should also consider transportation assistance to smallholder farmers to reduce transportation losses.

Subsidy strategies of grain supply chain considering stakeholder efforts on post-harvest loss reduction and pollution emission reduction

Subsidy strategies of grain supply chain considering stakeholder efforts on post-harvest loss reduction and pollution emission reduction