The Postharvest Horticulture Training and Research Center (PHTRC) conducted the “Training on Basic Postharvest Handling of Vegetables” last November 21 at the PHTRC Annex Training Room. Participated in by various tomato stakeholders and local agriculture officers, the whole day training is part of the capability building activities under the FAO-funded project titled “Support to the Conduct of Loss Assessment and Pilot Demonstrations of Postharvest Interventions at the Peak of the Harvest Season in Tomato Supply Chains”. In order to equip the participants with basic knowledge and skills in proper handling techniques and technologies for vegetables, specifically tomatoes, the project team discussed several topics on the basic concepts and principles of postharvest handling, causes of losses in the fresh produce supply chain, factors that impact quality and safety, and market preparation and packinghouse operations. Results of the loss assessment studies and handling trials on tomato, which were undertaken earlier this year as part of the project’s activities, were deliberated during the afternoon session. Costs and benefits in using plastic crates as packaging of tomatoes were also discussed. The training also served as a platform for the sharing of experiences and innovations introduced in the tomato supply chain. Likewise, the activity facilitated in appreciating the participants’ role in maintaining quality, ensuring safety, and reducing losses and wastage along the supply chain. Towards the end of the training, plastic crates were received by participants from Nueva Vizcaya, Laguna, Rizal and Quezon. (AGerance)
