Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
areas. Research is underway to adapt this technology this for cool transportation.
These small-scale cold rooms have been adopted by a number of small-scale farm-
ers in the U.S. as well.
The concept of a Postharvest Training and Services Center was developed by
Dr. Lisa Kitinoja, founder of the Postharvest Education Foundation. Two such
centers have been created, one in Tanzania and one in India. The centers have
facilities for training of trainers and farmers in postharvest practices, including
demonstrations of the effects of improved practices. In addition, the Centres have
a supply of materials needed for improved postharvest handling, such as packag-
ing, harvest umbrellas, clippers and thermometers that are available for sale. It
is hoped that this type of center will be replicated in many parts of the develop-
ing world. The Postharvest Education Foundation and the Horticulture Innovation
Lab (formerly Horticulture CRSP) have funded the training of several individuals
in Africa and Asia who can provide training in postharvest practices to farmers,
handlers and technicians who work with farmers and handlers (Anon
2012b
).
Future Outlook
There is tremendous room for improvement in postharvest handling of harvested
horticultural products. By increasing awareness of simple practices, we can reduce
losses and improve the quantity and quality of food available to consumers. Hope-
fully, improved practices will allow fruits and vegetables to eventually be sold at
lower prices to increase consumption and result in improved health. Development
of innovative, adapted technologies will assist resource poor farmers in adoption of
improved practices.
Role of Postharvest Technology in Sustaining Horticulture
in Developed Economies
Importance of Quality Management in Advanced
Supply Chains
Supply chains in developed economies and even those within some emerging econ-
omies, which service their burgeoning populations, have over recent decades be-
come ever more globalized and more interconnected. This situation together with
the increased use of just-in-time logistics and lean manufacturing has undoubtedly
led to greater efficiencies, but perhaps to more risk in terms of resilience.
Food prices in recent times have generally been increasing across the world, no-
tably with spikes in 2008, 2010 and 2012 (Fig.
13.2
) (Anon
2013
). This trend is caus-
ing concern amongst governments, consumers and industry. In many parts of the
developed world profits within the fresh produce sector are being forever squeezed
