Postharvest technologies for small-scale farmers in low- and middle-income countries: A call to action

The benefits of agricultural innovations in increasing productivity and reducing postharvest losses have not been shared universally. Postharvest losses of horticultural crops are high in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) where small-scale farms play a critical role in production. A number of innovations in application of the cold chain and the dry chain to address post-harvest losses are appropriate for small-scale enterprises.

This review highlights opportunities for the development of innovative technologies to reduce post-harvest loss, with an emphasis on cooling and drying technologies. It emphasizes technologies that have been demonstrated as effective in LMICs and discusses potential improvements to these technologies. A more coordinated effort among researchers and other stakeholders working to reduce postharvest losses is needed to achieve significant reductions in LMICs.