How to Store Produce to Reduce Post-Harvest Losses\n\nReducing post-harvest loss increases income. Use these practical steps:\n\n1. Harvest at the right time — pick in the cooler hours (early morning) to reduce heat stress.\n2. Sort immediately — remove damaged or overripe items to prevent spread of rot.\n3. Pre-cool when possible — even a simple shaded, ventilated area lowers temperatures before storage.\n4. Use breathable packaging — crates or perforated boxes allow airflow and lower condensation.\n5. Avoid stacking heavy crates — pressure bruises fruit and shortens shelf life.\n\nExtras: If refrigeration isn’t available, use evaporative coolers (Zeer pot or wet-sack methods) for short-term cooling. Aggregate produce to sell in bulk to buyers who can collect quickly.\n\nResult: Even small changes in handling and short-term storage can reduce losses by 10–30%.
