Postharvest practices

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After harvest, fruits and vegetables need to be handled with care to maintain freshness, nutrient content, taste and quality. Fruits and vegetables are highly perishable, and so poor after harvest handling can result in losses. The field of postharvest practices addresses issues of handling, transportation and temperature control for crops after harvest. Good postharvest handlng is critical to reducing postharvest losses of fresh produce, to maintain quality, preserve nutrient content, and earn higher prices at market.

Horticulture Innovation Lab researchers test the efficacy of postharvest technologies and build capacity among local leaders in postharvest practices. Below are fact sheets, videos, manuals, and other training materials for improving postharvest practices with horticultural crops.

dried apricots in a hand in Tajikistan

Improving practices for dried apricots in Tajikistan

Led by Ariana Torres, Purdue University

Apricots have the potential to be a high-value crop for smallholder farmers in Tajikistan as the climate, soil, and water in many parts of the country are favorable for apricot production.

Tajikistan
Close-up on basket of tomatoes at a market in Rwanda

Reducing postharvest losses in Rwanda

Led by Gurbinder S. Gill, Agribusiness Associates Inc.

In 2014, the Rwandan National Horticulture Strategy estimates that 1 million rural households in Rwanda grow horticultural commodities, "principally for home use and sale.

Rwanda
Beth Mitcham, UC Davis, portrait

Elizabeth Mitcham

Dr. Elizabeth Mitcham's 31-year career at the University of California, Davis, Department of Plant Sciences, and expertise as a postharvest phsyiologist, has led to great advancements in horticulture innovations and the postharvest handling of produce to reduce food loss and waste. Former roles include Cooperative extension specialist, pomologist, and Directors for both the Horticulture Innovation Lab and UC Postharvest Research and Extension Center.
group plant pineapple demonstration plot in Guinea

Establishing a horticulture center in Guinea

This project's goal is to introduce novel technologies that will improve production practices and reduce postharvest losses in Guinea. These technologies will be delivered through a market-driven and youth-led Horticulture Training and Services Center in Kindia, Guinea.
Guinea
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