African Weed Science (Agri/Plant Science) | 27 May 2004
Improving Post-Harvest Handling Systems to Minimise Fruit and Vegetable Losses in Côte d'Ivoire
B, o, u, k, a, M, o, d, i, b, o, ,, N, G, u, e, s, s, a, n, D, j, i, b, r, i, l, ,, S, e, y, n, i, G, u, i, l, l, a, u, m, e
Abstract
Fruits and vegetables are critical components of diets in Côte d'Ivoire, yet post-harvest losses often exceed 50% due to inadequate handling systems. A mixed-methods approach combining surveys, interviews, and on-site assessments was used to identify bottlenecks in current practices and propose solutions. Survey data indicated post-harvest losses of 58% for mangoes and 42% for tomatoes. Proposed interventions showed promise in reducing these losses by an average of 15%. Improved handling systems were effective in lowering fruit and vegetable losses, with significant reductions noted in mangoes (30%) and tomatoes (20%). Implementing the recommended interventions will require collaboration between government agencies, farmers' cooperatives, and private sector entities. The empirical specification follows $Y=\beta_0+\beta^\top X+\varepsilon$, and inference is reported with uncertainty-aware statistical criteria.