Book Description

Supply chain loss in the post-harvest management of agri produce is one of the major determinants of the food problem in most developing countries. However, food wastage is not good for two main reasons: firstly, there may be a material loss in terms of energy protein and other nutrients; and secondly, there may be an economic loss in terms of the value of food. The major concern for fresh Agro Supply Chain Management is the post-harvest wastage. India, the world's second-largest fresh agro producer and one of the centers of origin of fresh agro produce, is also one of the biggest food wasters in the world--wasting lots of fresh agro produce (fruits and vegetables) every year. The challenge of feeding India's billion plus people is not really about agriculture and food production but getting the good quality food to the people at the right time. According to various studies and literature available, the most susceptible food category to a lack of cold storage is fruits and vegetables where annual wastage is very high. Controlling the levels of waste is beyond the capability of individual farmers or consumers. The problem is wider and involves various issues in the supply chain of fresh agro produce. In the present study, the authors have carried out a detailed and extensive literature review available on the supply chain of fresh agro commodity and discussed the existing position, the supply chain losses and wastage problems encountered in the agricultural products with special reference to perishable agro produce, i.e., fruits and vegetables. The authors have also identified some of the major reasons for the losses and wastages in the logistics and supply chain of fresh agro produce.