Post-Harvest Technology and Processing

Post-Harvest Technology and Processing is a crucial branch of agricultural engineering that focuses on the science and techniques applied to agricultural commodities immediately following their harvest. It encompasses all stages of handling, preservation, storage, packaging, and transformation to minimize spoilage, maintain quality and nutritional value, and convert raw produce into marketable and value-added products. By applying engineering principles to design equipment and optimize processes for drying, milling, cooling, and packaging, this field plays a vital role in reducing food losses, ensuring food security, and bridging the gap between farm production and consumer consumption.

1. Foundations of Post-Harvest Technology
   1. Definition and Scope
      1. Definition of Post-Harvest Technology
      2. Scope and Coverage of the Field
      3. Historical Development and Evolution
      4. Relationship to Food Science and Agriculture
   2. Importance of Post-Harvest Management
      1. Food Security and Nutrition
         1. Role in Reducing Global Hunger
         2. Impact on Nutritional Quality Retention
         3. Contribution to Food Availability
      2. Reduction of Food Losses and Waste
         1. Global Food Loss Statistics
         2. Environmental Implications of Food Waste
         3. Resource Conservation Benefits
      3. Economic Impact for Producers
         1. Income Generation Opportunities
         2. Market Access Enhancement
         3. Competitiveness Improvement
         4. Risk Reduction Strategies
      4. Value Addition Potential
         1. Product Diversification Opportunities
         2. Employment Generation
         3. Rural Development Impact
   3. Post-Harvest System Components
      1. Key Stages in Post-Harvest Chain
         1. Pre-Harvest Planning
         2. Harvesting Operations
         3. Field Handling Procedures
         4. Primary Processing
         5. Storage Management
         6. Secondary Processing
         7. Packaging Operations
         8. Transportation and Distribution
         9. Marketing and Retail
      2. Stakeholders in the Value Chain
         1. Primary Producers and Farmers
         2. Aggregators and Collectors
         3. Processors and Manufacturers
         4. Wholesalers and Distributors
         5. Retailers and Vendors
         6. End Consumers
         7. Regulatory and Certification Bodies
         8. Research and Extension Services