Logistic, socioeconomic indicators and horticultural post-harvest losses in five cities of Maranhão, Brazil
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.6008/CBPC2179-6858.2021.005.0054Keywords:
Training, Marketing, Physiological disorders, Origin, Volume offeredAbstract
Fruit and vegetable segment occupies a prominent place in the Brazilian agribusiness, however it faces obstacles regarding post-harvest losses. Studies on this topic are scarce in Maranhão, especially in small municipalities. Therefore, the objective of this study was to conduct a socio-economic and post-harvest losses survey of horticulture in the retail market of Afonso Cunha, Codó, Coroatá, Santa Filomena and São Mateus do Maranhão. The study was conducted with direct interviews in 76 establishments, through a questionnaire composed of objective questions, related to socioeconomic aspects, handling, transportation, storage, marketing and post-harvest losses of horticulture. It is concluded that most traders have low technical knowledge of production (89%), management (71%) and marketing (62%) of fruits and vegetables. The degree of education is predominantly incipient and only 16% have bachelor’s degree. Monthly income covers one to two minimum wages (66%). Fruits and vegetables come from abroad, mostly from Bahia, Ceará and Piauí (85%). Banana and tomato exhibit the largest volume offered and are present in more than 90% of the establishments visited. Among the fruits, 69.23% have relative losses of medium to high magnitude, while 100% of the vegetables analyzed are in this level of losses. Physiological disorders are the main causative agents and include early ripening, wilting, wrinkling of the epidermis, budding and uneven coloring. It becomes evident the need for training of traders regarding management aspects and good post-harvest practices, so that there are improvements in the quality of the horticultural products offered, food security and socioeconomic development.
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