
FAST FACTS
Post-harvest loss (PHL) is defined as the volume of fresh produce that fails to reach the consumer due to a deterioration in quality.
The biggest PHLs reported are those of fruit, root vegetables and tubers.
Cold storage and transportation are crucial for preventing PHL.
Food is a delicate commodity. About one-third (1,3 billion tons) of that produced around the world for human consumption is lost or wasted every year.
Post-harvest loss (PHL) can be described as the fruit and vegetables produced that do not reach consumers due to degradation in quality and quantity. Effectively, it includes the loss of the food itself and the inputs required to produce and distribute it. It is a loss that has long concerned both farmers and sellers.
The world’s population is expected to reach 9,7 billion by 2050, and this will require an increase in global food production of about 60% from current levels, as well as more equitable access to food. As it stands, over 815 million people around the world are chronically undernourished, especially in parts of subSaharan Africa and South Asia, where 22,8% and 14,7% of people respectively are undernourished. The greatest PHLs reported in the fresh produce sector are of fruit, root vegetables and tubers. Regional data for fruit and vegetable losses show that all regions across the globe lose at least 20% of their fresh produce, with extreme losses of 45% and 50% recorded in Africa and Asia respectively.
Esta historia es de la edición Farmer's Weekly 5 August 2022 de Farmer's Weekly.
Comience su prueba gratuita de Magzter GOLD de 7 días para acceder a miles de historias premium seleccionadas y a más de 9,000 revistas y periódicos.
Ya eres suscriptor ? Conectar
Esta historia es de la edición Farmer's Weekly 5 August 2022 de Farmer's Weekly.
Comience su prueba gratuita de Magzter GOLD de 7 días para acceder a miles de historias premium seleccionadas y a más de 9,000 revistas y periódicos.
Ya eres suscriptor? Conectar

The genetically unique Senepol: ideal for beef production in Southern Africa
Since its arrival in South Africa in 2001, the Senepol has become a strong contender in the country's beef cattle arena. Tiekie Muller, owner of the Nooitgedacht Senepol stud, spoke to Annelie Coleman about how the growing number of Senepol stud breeders underpins the value of the breed under exacting African conditions.

Microwave mango and granadilla cheesecake
This delicious mango fridge tart is so easy to make, perfect when you want a quick yet indulgent dessert (it only takes 25 minutes to whip up). The fruit’s gorgeous colour and fragrance are maximised.

Global outlook for wheat in 2024/25
In its latest estimate, the International Grains Council has adjusted global wheat production for the coming season due to poorer-than-expected harvests in the EU. However, global supplies remain strong, while global consumption is expected to increase to reach about 804 million tons. Janine Ryan reports.

From fallow land to award-winning wines: the Newstead story
Newstead Lund Family Vineyards, a relatively new wine estate, has established itself as one of the best producers of sparkling wine in South Africa. Owners Doug and Sue Lund spoke to Glenneis Kriel about their production philosophy, rise to success, and possible expansion plans.

Fact file of fungal diseases in wheat
Wheat is a significant crop, and like other crops, is susceptible to a range of infections. Here, we provide information on the most important fungal diseases that affect wheat.

Soil preparation for wheat and other cereals
For seed to germinate and plants to grow, soil often needs to be prepared. The manner in which it is done depends on the type of soil, the organic matter and moisture it contains, the crop to be planted, as well as the previous crop that was planted in the field. Magda du Toit spoke to cereal experts and farmers for guidance.

The origin of the Bonsmara
The Breed of the Month for March is the Bonsmara. In this first article, we take a look at the man behind this popular cattle breed, as well as how it was developed.

The Southern Sun Cape Sun hotel is once again a destination of choice
While some of its contemporaries have suffered from inner-city neglect, the Southern Sun Cape Sun hotel has bounced back in elegance and style, writes Brian Berkman.

Age catches up with the Nissan Navara
The Navara line-up was increased last year in Nissan's effort to win back market share. The Citizen's Mark Jones sampled the top-of-the-range Pro-4X to see how the double cab compares with modern bakkies.

Growing onion sets
Bill Kerr discusses what onion sets are, and how and when to produce them to obtain the maximum financial benefit.