Minimising post-harvest losses of horticultural perishables is a very effective way of reducing the area needed for production and/or increasing food availability. Solving the post harvest food distribution problems in Pakistan will require cooperation and effective communication among all the research, extension, industry personnel and involved agri scientists.
According to update research reports, post harvest horticulturists need to co-ordinate their efforts with those of production horticulturists, agricultural marketing economists, engineers, food technologists, and others involved in various aspects of the production and marketing system.
In most cases, solutions to existing problems in the post harvest handling system require use of available information and application of available technologies at the appropriate scale rather than conducting new research, or developing new technologies. Overcoming the socio-economic constraints is essential to achieving the goal of reducing post harvest food losses, they added.
The human element in post harvest handling of horticultural commodities is extremely important. Most handlers involved directly in harvesting, packaging, transporting, and marketing in developing countries including Pakistan have limited or no appreciation for the need for, or how to maintain quality. An effective and far-reaching educational (extension) programme on these aspects is needed critically now and will continue to be essential in the future, they suggested.
Survey reports revealed that the growers can produce large quantities of good-quality fruits, ornamentals, and vegetables, but, if they do not have a dependable, fast, and equitable means of getting such commodities to the consumer, losses will be extensive.
This problem exists in many locations within developing countries including Pakistan. It is accentuated by lack of communication between producers and receivers, and lack of market information.
Marketing co-operatives should be encouraged among producers of major commodities in important production areas. Such organisations are especially needed in developing countries because of the relatively small farm size. Advantages of marketing co-operatives include: providing central accumulation points for the harvested commodity, purchasing harvesting and packing supplies and materials in quantity, providing proper preparation for market and storage when needed, facilitating transportation to the markets, and acting as a common selling unit for the members, coordinating the marketing programme and distributing profits equitable.
Agri marketing experts suggested that the alternative distribution systems, such as direct selling to the consumer (roadside stands, produce markets in cities, local farmers' market in the countryside, etc) should be encouraged. Production should be maintained close to the major population centres to minimise transportation costs.
Wholesale markets in most of the developing countries are in desperate need of improvement in terms of facilities and sanitation. These are overcrowded, unsanitary, and lack of adequate facilities for loading, unloading, ripening, consumer packaging, and temporary storage. In several countries, there are plans to build better wholesale marketing facilities, but their implementation has been delayed more because of social and political than financial considerations.