Food is a sensitive issue and a global issue. There is as much as 40% wastage of farm produce globally every year due to lack of proper storage. It is sad but true that a country like India which is largely dependent on agriculture for its GDP, uses only 4% of cold storage for its farm produce wherein almost 75% of its farm produce wastage can be minimized by using cold storage.
Farmers cannot sell all of one crop at any given point in time. A crop or vegetable, during its season is sold for much less price due to plenty of availability. If not consumed or stored properly a large portion of the crop can go waste. The demand however rises later and even the price. Farmers can use cold storage units to preserve the farm produce for a certain amount of time with zero or minimal loss. The produce in turn can be sold at a better price in the open markets and super marts when the demand is high but fresh crop is not available.
It creates a win- win situation for all. The farmers suffer minimum wastage of their produce and are not in a pressure to sell off their material at lower rates when the demands are low. It ensures minimum damage to crops and the demand- supply chain is maintained for the consumers. It benefits the government with a healthy availability of food products in the market and a balanced agricultural economy.
Post-harvest management forms an integral part of the food supply. Improper storage and handling cause financial losses to farmers every year. With the smart use of technology, availability of special refrigerated logistic solutions, trained manpower, specialized cold chambers with control over temperature, humidity and other factors, the farmers can now save up to 40% wastage and earn better from their produce.
