Postharvest practices, challenges and opportunities for grain producers in Arequipa, Peru.

ABSTRACT: Little is known about the major issues leading to postharvest losses in Peru, which are estimated to be 15-27%. We surveyed 503 farmers from the lowlands and Andean regions of Arequipa to learn more about the major grains produced and issues encountered during drying and storage. Rice, common bean, and quinoa were the most grown crops in the lowlands while starchy maize was the most cultivated crop in the highlands. Most farmers (90%) dried their crops in-field directly on the ground, which exposes them to rodents, birds, and insect pests. The majority of farmers (92%) used subjective methods to assess grain moisture content. About 77% of farmers identified insects as a major challenge during storage but only 44% said they used preventive measures such as the application of insecticides. A

SUBMITTER: Diaz-Valderrama JR 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7641344 | biostudies-literature | 2020

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature