Postharvest Technology Research Articles

Mycotoxigenic fungal growth within stored maize (Zea mays L.) at different storage altitudes and durations

In this study, the interactive effect of maize (Zea mays L.) storage altitude, storage duration, and initial moisture content on the invasion of mycotoxigenic fungi on maize stored within woven polypropylene bags was evaluated. The direct plating method on potato dextrose agar media was used for the isolation of maize kernel fungi, and the identification was done morphologically. The study result revealed that Aspergillus spp., Fusarium spp., and Aspergillus flavus were identified at all storage altitudes (1500, 1800, and 2200 m above sea level (m.a.s.l.)), and the level of fungal growth was affected by storage duration and initial moisture content. There was a relatively higher density of Aspergillus flavus at lower altitudes. Aspergillus flavus growth was significantly increased by prolonging maize storage duration at 1500 m.a.s.l. altitude; kernel infection increased from 33% to 47% between the 4th and 8th months of storage. Similarly, there was a higher incidence of Aspergillus spp. at the lower altitude; after 8 months of storage, the relative density of Aspergillus spp. was 69% at 1500 m.a.s.l. altitude. After 8 months of storage, the highest kernel infection with Fusarium spp. (53%) was observed at 2200 m.a.s.l. (the highest altitude). There was a decrease in Fusarium spp. kernel infection from the 4th month (27%) to the 8th month (7%) at 1500 m.a.s.l. altitude. The relative density of the fungi increased with an increment in the initial storage moisture content of maize. Hence, the existence of Aspergillus spp., Aspergillus flavus, and Fusarium spp. in maize stored with different initial moisture contents (12%–15%), various sites of an agro-ecological zone, and storage durations emphasizes the need to utilize climate-smart post-harvest technologies for storing maize for more than 4 months in woven polypropylene bags, particularly at lower altitudes (1500 m.a.s.l.) to minimize aflatoxin contamination.

Guaranteed storage? Risk and credit constraints in the demand for postharvest technology

Abstract Uninsured risk is often cited to explain the lagging adoption of new agricultural technologies in low-income regions. However, insurance interventions suffer from poor take-up. We test whether bundling a new product–hermetic storage bags–with a warranty can serve as a viable alternative. We compare the warranty to a credit intervention and a control using an incentivized auction in rural Bangladesh. We find the warranty had no impact on demand. Providing the bags on credit significantly increased willingness-to-pay, and machine learning estimates indicate credit may have raised the demand for the most marginal farmers. Warranties failed to stimulate demand along any dimension.

Effect of Foliar Application of Chemicals on Shelf Life of Ber (Ziziphus mauritiana L.) cv. Apple Ber

A field experiment was conducted out at Experimental orchard, Post-harvest Technology Laboratory of Department of Horticulture and laboratory of Department of Soil Science, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar during the year 2022-23. The experiment was laid out in a Randomized Block Design with thirteen treatments and three replications viz., T1: K2SO4 (1.0%), T2: K2SO4 (1.5%), T3: K2SO4 (2.0%), T4: K2SO4 (2.5%), T5: Ca(NO3)2 (0.5%), T6: Ca(NO3)2 (1.0%), T7: Ca(NO3)2 (1.5%), T8: Ca(NO3)2 (2.0%), T9: C2H6ClO3P@ 150 ppm , T10: C2H6ClO3P@ 300 ppm), T11: C2H6ClO3P@ 450 ppm T12: C2H6ClO3P@ 600 ppm T13: Control (water spray). The each treatments were applied two times i.e. first spray in the 3rd week of december and second spray at 10 days after first spray i.e. in the first week of january until total saturation of foliage of experimental plants. The control trees were sprayed with water. Among the shelf life parameters minimum spoilage % and minimum loss in PLW % was observed in case of calcium nitrate @ 2.0 % which further improve the shelf life of ber fruits.

Inhibition of bleaching of stored red hot pepper through appropriate postharvest technologies and practices

The colour qualities of hot red pepper are the major issue in pepper value chain. Due to poorly coordinated scientific evidence, information on the factors causing colour loss and the inhibition mechanism is not well known. Therefore, this review paper aimed to summarize the inhibition mechanism of stored red hot pepper bleaching through appropriate postharvest technologies and practices. The information in this paper was gathered from a variety of sources, including journal articles, books, book chapters, workshop proceedings, FAO reports, and AOAC official methods of analysis. According to these studies, carotenoids, surface colour, and extractable colour (ASTA value) are the primary colourants that define hot red pepper. The findings demonstrate that low-temperature drying methods, such as open sun drying, are best for preserving the red hot pepper powder’s colour quality, while higher temperatures cause the colour to darken. Blanching, the use of desiccants (CaCl2), and chemical dipping are pretreatments that preserve the best colour quality by hastening the drying time. Similarly, storage of red hot pepper powder at lower temperatures (5oC) resulted in less colour degradation. In other words, materials used for packaging that have a high barrier to light, moisture, and air, such as laminated aluminium, amber or black polyethylene, and high-density polyethylene, maintained a higher level of colour quality. Through their influence on drying and processing times, breeding technologies, varieties, and maturity level also impact colour quality. In conclusion, the colour quality of red hot pepper is highly influenced by environmental, biological, and processing methods. It is, therefore, critical to use appropriate drying and pretreatment techniques, storage time, well-managed storage temperature, appropriate processing methods and packing materials, and improved agronomic practices for the sustainable management of colour fading and adulteration that can occur throughout the value chain.

Preface

The Second International Conference on Food and Agricultural Sciences (2nd ICFAS 2023) December 12 – December 14, 2023 Research Organization for Agriculture and Food National, Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) Hybrid from Yogyakarta, Indonesia The Second International Conference on Food and Agricultural Sciences (2nd ICFAS 2023) started as part of the research and dissemination activities of the Research Organization for Agriculture and Food, Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) with its first event in 2022. The theme of the 2nd ICFAS 2023 is “The Future Innovation and Technology in Food and Agriculture Sustainability to Face Climate Change”. The ICFAS 2023 serves as a platform for researchers, scientists, lecturers, engineers, scholar students, and practitioners interested in the advanced technologies of agriculture and food including food technology and processing, pre- and post-harvest technologies, food and nutrition securities, climate change, smart farming, agriculture and food supply chain system and related topics. The conference aimed to create an environment where diverse perspectives converge, fostering a rich tapestry of ideas that can drive meaningful progress in relevant fields or industries. In today’s rapidly evolving world, the exchange of knowledge has never been more crucial. The challenges we face are multifaceted, and it is only through collective intelligence, interdisciplinary collaboration, and a commitment to excellence that we can navigate the complexities ahead. The ICFAS 2023 is designed to be a nexus for such collaboration, where experts, scholars, and practitioners converge to share their expertise and experiences. Over the three days (12-14 December 2023), The conference has curated a program that features (keynote speakers, invited speakers, panel discussions and workshops) to explore the latest trends, address pressing issues, and inspire new thinking in food and agriculture scopes. We encourage you not only to actively participate in these sessions but also to engage in informal discussions during breaks, fostering connections that extend beyond the confines of this conference. The success of this conference is not only measured by the wealth of information shared but also by the relationships forged and the potential collaborations that may emerge. We would like to express our deep appreciation to all the sponsors (Institut Pertanian STIPER Yogyakarta, PT Wiralab Analitika Solusindo, PT Bayer Indonesia - BCS, PT Fajar Mas Murni, CropLife, PT Elo Karsa Utama, PT Corteva Agriscience Indonesia, PT ITS Science Indonesia, ID Food, and Danone Indonesia), partners (Faculty of Agricultural Technology, Faculty of Agriculture, Faculty of Biology, Faculty of Animal Husbandry, and Study Program of Biotechnology - Graduate School, Universitas Gadjah Mada; Faculty of Science and Technology, UIN Sunan Kalijaga; Faculty of Agricultural Technology, STIPER Agricultural Institute Yogyakarta; Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Universitas Islam Indonesia; Faculty of Industrial Technology, Universitas Ahmad Dahlan; Faculty of Science and Technology, Universitas Aisyiah; Faculty of Biotechnology, Universitas Atmajaya Yogyakarta; Faculty of Halal Industry, Universitas Nahdhatul Ulama; Faculty of Agricultural, UPN Veteran Yogyakarta; Faculty of Mathematic and Natural Sciences, Yogyakarta State University; Indonesian Biotechnology Consortium) organizers, presenters, and, above all, to the participants, for the priceless contributions of time, expertise, and enthusiasm that have contributed to the success of this conference. Sincerely, Satriyo Krido Wahono, Ph.D. Chairman List of Steering Committee and Organizing Committee are available in this Pdf.

Comparative analysis of mechanical properties of paddy rice for different variety-moisture content interactions

In recent years, postharvest loss has been a serious concern. However, knowledge of the mechanical properties is vital to developing any postharvest technology for rice production better. The objective of this research is to conduct a comparative analysis of the mechanical properties of selected paddy rice at different variety-moisture content interactions. The mechanical properties of AGRA rice, CRI-Amankwatia, CRI-Enapa, and CRI-Dartey, four local varieties developed in Ghana, are compared at 11.5%, 13.0% and 16.5% on wet basis moisture content. Tukey's Honest Significant Difference (HSD) comparisons test was conducted during data analysis to compare all possible pairwise combinations of the various varieties and moisture content interaction. From the results, it was concluded that CRI-Dartey, at 16.5%, recorded the highest Sphericity and Aspect Ratio of 0.391 mm3 and 0.298 mm3, respectively. For grain mass, AGRA rice at 13.0% also recorded 0.0312 g as the highest score. The GM1000, Angle of Repose and Bulk density CRI-Amankwatia at 16.5 % moisture content recorded the highest score of 29.33 g, 47.3o, and 654.0 kg/m3, respectively. AGRA rice at 13.0% observed the highest value of 1685.8 for kg/m3 true density, and the highest value for porosity was 70.83%, which was recorded by CRI-Enapa at 11.5 % moisture content. In all cases, the difference in mean value was less than the Least Square Difference. This indicates that there were no significant statistical differences between their mean values, indicating that technologies developed and adapted for one variety can equally be used for all the other varieties. Int. J. Agril. Res. Innov. Tech. 14(1): 18-29, June 2024

Evaluation of Different Drying Methods and Leaf Age on the Retention of Phytochemical and Nutritional Attributes of Moringa Leaf Powder

Moringa (Moringa oleifera), indigenous to India and Africa, is esteemed for its dual utility as a minor timber source and, more importantly, as a vegetable crop. The leaves of the moringa tree are exceptionally nutrient-dense, containing essential elements such as iron, calcium, proteins, vitamins A, C, and E, dietary fiber, phosphorus, and potassium, all vital for human health. Furthermore, these leaves are rich in antioxidants, including flavonoids and phenolics, which endow them with significant medicinal properties. Despite its sporadic cultivation hindering global availability, the production of moringa leaf powder presents a viable strategy to bolster its international export potential. This study aims to assess the efficacy of various drying techniques in producing moringa leaf powder while preserving its nutritional integrity. Conducted at the Post-Harvest Technology Laboratory within the Department of Horticulture, Rajasthan College of Agriculture, and the Department of Processing and Food Engineering, College of Technology and Agricultural Engineering at Maharana Pratap University of Agriculture and Technology, Udaipur, Rajasthan, India, this research evaluates the nutritional quality of moringa leaf powder produced via different drying methods and from leaves of varying ages. Our findings indicate that the fluidized bed dryer excels in preserving the nutritional quality of the powder compared to tray and heat pump dryers. Additionally, the study concludes that heat pump dryers are unsuitable for producing high-quality moringa leaf powder.

Research and Technologies to Reduce Grain Postharvest Losses: A Review.

Reducing postharvest losses offers a significant opportunity to enhance food availability without requiring extra production resources. A substantial portion of cereal grain goes to waste annually due to a lack of science-based knowledge, unconscious handling practices, suboptimal technical efficiency, and inadequate infrastructure. This article extensively reviews losses occurring during postharvest operations across various crops, examining diverse postharvest operations in different countries. Recent advancements in postharvest technology research are thoroughly discussed. The primary obstacles and challenges hindering the adoption and implementation of postharvest technologies are also explored. The appropriate postharvest technology relies on specific factors, including the kind of crops, production locales, seasons, and existing environmental and socioeconomic conditions.

Pre-harvest treatments: A different insight into preservation of strawberries

Strawberry is one of the most favored consumed fresh fruits worldwide. However, the major constraint limiting future sustainable production and sales of strawberries is post-harvest decay. Thus, taking a deep look into the effective preservation measures including pre- and post-harvest techniques to retain freshness and inhibit the pathological spoilage of strawberries in the supply chain is of great significance and necessity. At present, relying solely on post-harvest technology is not enough to fix the aim of strawberry fruit preservation and longer shelf life. On the contrary, pre-harvest treatments could be extend shelf life of strawberry fruit and adapt to the diverse post-harvest environments. This review give the latest pre-harvest treatments, their effects on post-harvest quality and storability of strawberries, and develop the expectation of strawberries pre-harvest methods applicated in the future.

Sustainability analysis and decision-making strategy for swamp buffalo (Bubalus bubalis carabauesis) conservation in Jambi Province, Indonesia

Abstract The objective of this study is to analyze the sustainability of swamp buffalo cultivation and develop decision-making strategies. Data were collected through focus group discussions with key informants in swamp buffalo cultivation and surveys of buffalo farmers in three regencies in Jambi Province. This study examines 37 attributes contained in four dimensions: ecological, economic, social, and technological dimensions. Data were analyzed using multidimensional scaling through the Rapid appraisal for buffalo technique and analytical hierarchy process (AHP) The results showed that the sustainability index of swamp buffalo cultivation in Sarolangun Regency was 59.39%, Batanghari 58.23%, and Tebo 55.93%. This study identified 12 leverage attributes obtained from 37 attributes that affect the sustainability of swamp buffalo, i.e., forage feed, agricultural waste, land use, agricultural infrastructure, land ownership, buffalo manure, buffalo ownership, livestock motivation, environmental impact, agricultural waste treatment, land processing, and post-harvest technology. Then, from the results of four-dimensional weighting with 12 attributes using AHP, there are 5 alternative strategies in decision making, namely, (1) build internet network infrastructure, (2) determine the number of livestock that can be raised in an area, (3) establish buffalo farming institutions, (4) prevent land use conflicts, and (5) increase farmer participation in raising buffalo livestock. This research provides input to policy makers to develop swamp buffalo cultivation by considering ecological, economic, social, and technological dimensions.

Acceptability and Sensory Evaluation of Bottled Spanish-Style Rice Eel with Natural Flavorings

Rice eel’s acceptability as a table food has been tarnished due to its distinct fishy smell. Hence, most Filipinos considered it as the least preferred viand resulting in the least capture for food that hastened its invasiveness. To lessen the impact of rice eel’s presence in rice farms and encourage its utilization, a post-harvest processing technology with emphasis on bottling was conducted. Three falvorings were tested such as pandan (Pandanus amaryllifolius), lemon grass (Cymbopogon citratus) and guava (Psidium guajava) and were evaluated in terms of appearance, texture, aroma and taste by fifty (50) panelist using a 9-point hedonic scale and determined its general acceptability using the acceptability composite index. Four treatments were prepared following the ingredients and procedure of the Industrial Technology Development Institute – Department of Science and Technology (DOST-ITDI). Sensory evaluation shows that Treatment 1 (control), 2 (pandan) and 4 (guava) were statistically not significant in terms of appearance, texture, aroma and taste while Treatment 3 (lemon grass) is significantly lower among treatments. Based on acceptability composite index, Treatment 2 (pandan) rated as rank 1 followed by the Treatment 1 (control), Treatment 4 (guava) and Treatment 3 (lemon grass). It was noted, that the texture and aroma of bottled Spanish- style rice eel with pandan got the highest acceptable rating among the treatments while appearance and taste had the highest acceptability in Treatment 1 (or control). A separate study on the shelf-life and waste utilization of rice eel is highly recommended.

Investigation of antioxidant edible coating and modified atmosphere packaging for enhancing storability of hazelnut kernels

This study investigated the effects of antioxidant edible coating and modified atmosphere packaging for improving storability of dried hazelnut kernels by delaying lipid oxidation and color degradation. Hazelnut kernels were coated with different coating matrix (methylcellulose and chitosan) that contain different antioxidant substances (DL-α-tocopherol acetate, cinnamon essential oil, rosemary essential oil and hazelnut oil) and subjected to an accelerated storage condition at 35 °C for 270 days. Hazelnut kernels were also packed under modified atmosphere (MAP) with 100 % N2 in mylar bags and stored at 35 °C for 180 days. Lipid oxidation (free fatty acids, K232 and K270, peroxide values) and color (browning index) were measured for investigating quality changes during the storage. The free fatty acids of kernels from two packaging experiments remained stable during storage. K232 value of MAP kernels was significantly lower (2.20) than that of control (2.90) at the end of the storage, showing delayed production of conjugated dienes. The chitosan based edible coating with encapsulated cinnamon essential oil and oleic acid (CH/ECO/OA) resulted in significantly (P < 0.05) lower PV values (0.53 meq/kg oil), and all the coated samples had the positive effect on reducing browning index with 12–25 compared with control. K270 (0.04–0.18) remained relatively low throughout the long-term storage. As a result, modified atmosphere packaging performed better than edible coatings. This study demonstrated the importance of implicating proper postharvest technology for reducing lipid oxidation and quality deteriorations of hazelnut kernels during prolonged storage.

Empowerment of Kelompok Tani Kerja Pertanian Peternakan Perikanan (K2P3) Fafinesu Village Through Post-Harvest Handling Training of Passocery

Fafinesu Village is one of the villages in Kecamatan Insana tengah, Kabupaten Timor Tengah Utara (TTU) NTT which has been involved in horticulture cultivation, especially passion fruit, on a fairly large land area. Passion fruit plants are cultivated together with other horticulture such as papaya and vegetables (tomatoes and chilies). The large amount of passion fruit harvested by Kelompok Tani Kerja Pertanian Peternakan Perikanan (K2P3) which was formed in 2020 in Fafinesu Village has not been utilized optimally and its economic value is not yet visible. Knowledge of post-harvest handling of passion fruit is not widely known by the public. Passion fruit business opportunities are still quite wide open because of marketing opportunities. However, one of the factors that is an obstacle to developing passion fruit is post-harvest technology which is not yet known to farmers. This community service program aims to increase farmers' knowledge and skills in post-harvest handling of passion fruit in order to increase the economic value of passion fruit. One product that is long-lasting is using a high sugar concentrate, so training was carried out in making an instant passion fruit drink combined with the medicinal rhizome plant (turmeric) to become a traditional turmeric and passion fruit sour drink product. The method used in this activity is practice and assistance in processing passion fruit. Community service was successful thanks to the active participation of farmer groups by producing new passion fruit processing products in the form of traditional instant drinks. The knowledge and skills of farmer groups increase and will ultimately have an impact on increasing production and the economy

Impact of Post-Harvest Losses on the Profitability of Rice Production Amongst Smallholder Farmers in Liberia

Crop losses, especially along the post-harvest value chain, have been identified as one of the major causes of food shortages in most developing countries including Liberia. Rice farmers often record a great amount of loss which translates to a waste of resources, a reduction in their income, and ultimately their welfare. This study examined the effects of post-harvest losses on the profitability of rice production among smallholder rice farmers in Liberia. The analytical tools used in the study include descriptive statistics, gross margin analysis, and multiple regression models. The gross margin analysis results revealed that the average gross margin with post-harvest loss was 3,512.475 Liberian Dollars, lower than the average gross margin without post-harvest 8,826.114 Liberian Dollars. This implied a 39.79% reduction in the gross margin of rice farmers valued at over 2.8 million Liberian Dollars. The results also found the Value of Post-Harvest Loss, Market Participation Rate, Quantity Harvested, Quantity sold, and Education Level significantly affect the per-capita gross margin of farmers. The study recommends that farmers engaging in rice production be adequately trained on post-harvest crop handling techniques whereas, priority be given to investment in post-harvest processing technologies and the establishment of processing industries especially in the major production areas.

Effects of Delaying the Storage of 'Hass' Avocados under a Controlled Atmosphere on Skin Color, Bioactive Compounds and Antioxidant Capacity.

During ripening, 'Hass' avocado skin changes from green to purple/black. Low-temperature storage with a controlled atmosphere (CA) is the most widely used method for avocado storage; however, few studies have simulated this technology and considered the days of regular air (RA) storage prior to CA storage. Herein, the effect of delaying the storage of 'Hass' avocado (>30% dry matter) in a CA was examined. Long-term storage conditions (5 °C for 50 days) corresponded to (i) regular air storage (RA), (ii) CA (4 kPa O2 and 6 kPa CO2) and (iii) 10 days in RA + 40 days in a CA and (iv) 20 days in RA + 30 days in a CA. Evaluations were performed during storage and at the ready-to-eat (RTE) stage. Skin color remained unchanged during storage, but at the RTE stage, more color development was observed for fruits stored under CA conditions, as these fruits were purple/black (>50%). At the RTE stage, the anthocyanin content increased, and compared to fruit under RA, fruit under a CA contained a five-fold greater content. A 20-day delay between harvest and CA storage increased the fruit softening rate and skin color development after cold storage, reducing the effectiveness of CA as a postharvest technology for extending storage life.

Alternaria in berry: Effects on its quality, pathogenic mechanisms and potential control strategies

AbstractIn recent years, the production and demand of berries in the world have gradually increased, but the infection of fungal pathogens has become one of the important factors restricting the production and sales of fresh berries. It has been found that Alternaria can cause a variety of plant diseases and fruit rot worldwide. This review introduces the effect of Alternaria infection on berry quality, including physical, chemical and physiological aspects, and discusses the possible infection mechanisms. In addition, Alternaria produces toxins during infections and seriously threatens the safety of berries and consumer health. Therefore, the prevention and control measures of Alternaria are systematically summarized. This review provides the basis for further optimization of postharvest preservation technology and fruit quality, to prolong the shelf life of berries. We can realistically expect to control plant diseases with increasing efficiency, which is conducive to improving the quality and safety of postharvest berry fruits.

Preparation of modified atmosphere packaging based on the respiratory characteristics of cherry tomato and its freshness preservation application

Cherry tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) belongs to the respiratory leap type of fruit, post-harvest respiratory metabolism exuberant, easy to lead to nutrient loss, tissue destruction, and then rotting and deterioration, seriously affecting its commercial value. Therefore, research on post-harvest preservation technology of cherry tomatoes is crucial for related industries. Spontaneous modified atmosphere film packaging technology can extend the storage period of fruits and vegetables by adjusting the gas concentration of the storage environment, so that the fruits and vegetables can be maintained at a level suitable for their storage. In this study, the respiration model of cherry tomatoes at different temperatures was established by measuring the respiration rate of cherry tomatoes at different temperatures. It was found that the respiration rate of cherry tomatoes increased with increasing temperature and gradually decreased with increasing storage time. T-test results showed that there was no significant difference between the experimental values and the predicted values. The chemical kinetic model and its equilibrium equation were used to determine the parameters of modified atmosphere packaging of cherry tomatoes. PEG/PVDF membranes and SPEEK/PEG/PVDF blend membranes were prepared with sulfonated polyether ether ketone (SPEEK), polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) and polyethylene glycol (PEG) according to the parameters of modified atmosphere membranes to keep cherry tomatoes fresh. The results showed that there was a significant effect of package method on the preservation parameters of cherry tomatoes, the SPEEK/PEG/PVDF membrane treatment group significantly reduced the weight loss rate of cherry tomatoes and maintained the lower film permeability and higher sound fruit rate, hardness, titratable acid (TA) content, VC content and total soluble solids (TSS) content of cherry tomatoes. It can effectively delay the ripening and senescence of cherry tomatoes and extend the fruit storage period.

Factors influencing small holder farmers adoption of climate SMART agriculture practices in Welmera Woreda, Central Ethiopia

Adoption of climate-smart agriculture practices are believed to have significantly lessened the devastating impact of climate change on agriculture. However, in countries like Ethiopia, the adoption and use level of climate-smart agriculture practices remains low. The understanding of farmers’ levels of CSA practice adoption and influencing factors is therefore crucial. The goal of the study is to evaluate the degree to which various CSA practices were being used in the study area, as well as adoption determinants. The study was conducted in Welmera district, Oromia, Ethiopia. Three kebeles were chosen from the district, and a random sample of 306 farmers was picked. We used a cross-sectional household survey, a focus group discussion, and interviews with key informants. A multivariate probit model was employed to investigate the factors influencing the adoption of multiple climate-smart agriculture practices. According to the result, conservation agriculture, integrated soil fertility management, and crop diversification are the most often used CSA practices. The results also revealed that male farmers outperformed female farmers in terms of crop diversity and improved animal feed and feeding practice adoption. The age of farmers has a considerable and unfavorable impact on their likelihood of adopting improved soil fertility management and crop diversification practices. However, it has a positive and considerable impact on the adoption of agroforestry practices. With regards to economic factors, having a relatively big farmland area considerably enhances the adoption of conservation agriculture, enhances soil fertility management and crop diversity, and improves livestock feed and feeding methods and post-harvest technology practice. Improved livestock feed and feeding are more likely to be used with higher farm income. Having a significant number of animals strongly promotes the adoption of conservation agriculture, and access to financial services positively impacts agroforestry, diversification of crops, and postharvest technology practice adoption. Furthermore, institutional factors including access to agricultural extension services and training were discovered to be important and beneficial for crop diversification; similarly, access to field day participation was discovered to have a significant and positive impact on the adoption of conservation agriculture and improved soil fertility management practices. It is critical to raise awareness about climate change among farmers and experts, as well as to incorporate location-specific CSA practices into agricultural programs.

Perceived constraints in agro-processing in unorganized agri-businesses: Learning from Trans-Gangetic Plains

Agro-processing within the production catchment has the potential to enhance farmers’ income, reducing post- harvest losses, and generating rural employment in India. A study was carried out during 2019–22 to identify the constraints impacting performance of agro-processing units being run by the unorganized sector in Trans-Gangetic Plains. A total of 60 current and 60 potential agro-processing farmers were undertaken using simple random technique to carry out the study. A combination of quantitative and qualitative approaches were used in collecting data. Data were analyzed using Friedman's, Nemenyi's and Kruskal-Wallis's tests. Study highlighted the issues that current agro- processors encounter, various constraits including high interest rates, inadequate storage, few marketing avenues, slow information access, and expensive equipment maintenance. Further, the challenges faced by aspiring agro-processors were information deficits, marketing and high operating expenses. The insights suggest measures to promote the adoption of post-harvest technologies among stakeholders.

Strengthening Postharvest Technology Development and Improvement through Feedback

Purpose: This inquiry is predicated on the datum or truism that all technologies have a gap and or become obsolete at some point, and the utilization of pass´e technologies predisposes the agricultural sector to underdevelopment. It investigates technological paucities and fixes for Nigerian Stored Products Research Institute (NSPRI) technologies (NSPRI Smoking Kiln (NSK), Parabolic-shaped Solar Dryer (PSSD), Ice Fish Box® (IFB®), Hermetic Steel Drum (HSD) and Ventilated Plastic Crate (VPC)) from the perspective of users of the technologies.Research Method: The study adopted a cross-sectional research design using the in-person method as its feedback mechanism in 18 states across 6 geopolitical zones in Nigeria. Data were obtained through interview schedules while a multi-stage sampling procedure was employed in the selection of respondents. Eighteen (18) States where NSPRI postharvest technologies have been disseminated and adopted were purposively selected, followed by the selection of users of improved NSPRI postharvest technologies. Frequencies, percentages, means and weighted averages were employed in the analysis of data components.Findings: Results showed that 70% of respondents have never provided feedback on NSPRI technologies. Executives of various associations were used by 45% of NSK users, 59% of IFB users, and 48% of VPC users to provide feedback while 43% of PSSD users and 40% of HSD users shared opinions through NSPRI extension staff. In general, there exists a strong (NSK: 94% PSSD: 95.2% IFB®: 91% HSD: 88.6% VPC: 74.5%) willingness to recommend technologies among respondents even as they provided positive feedback on use parameters and components of the technologies. However, respondents opined that the roller and chimney (NSK), durability of polypropylene cover (PSSD), draining of thawed ice (IFB®), and bolted ring (HSD) require improvement.Originality/ Value: These findings provide valuable information for the improvement of extant postharvest technologies.