Postharvest losses of peppers and squashes produced for local markets In Jordan

Abstract EN

Postharvcst losses of different pepper and squash varieties grown in open fields in the Jordan Valley and Uplands were studied at farm, transport, wholesale, and retail levels.

The percentages of postharvcst losses were measured quantitatively in three sites at each level and repeated three times in each growing area.

Results showed high percentages of losses at the farm, transport, and retail levels in both growing areas.

The magnitude of postharvest losses were 22.6 % and 23.0 % in peppers and 23.1 % and 21.9 % in squashes in the Jordan Valley and the Uplands, respectively.

Postharvcst losses observed in peppers and squashes from both growing areas could be attributed to mishandling of the product and to inappropriate manipulation of environmental conditions that surround the product.

The high percentages of losses and the accelcrated yield losses were aggravated by many factors such as temperature, long distance from the markets, and rough rural roads.

Recommendations were suggested for reduction of postharvcst losses.