Specific Problems

Postharvest Agenda

Research and Development

Extension

·      Bruises, cuts and abrasions during harvesting, hauling and transporting

·      Improvement of harvesting implements to minimize damages due to bruising and scratching

·      Mechanize postproduction to avert losses due to tuber damage and delayed harvesting

·      Adaptation of the tramline system in hauling the produce

·      Improvement of packaging to minimize damages during handling and transporting

·      Rotting, spoilage, discoloration (greening) and sprouting at storage

·      Development of storage technology for:

·      Seed potato

·      Table potato

·      Processing potato

·      Develop storage technology that can maintain tuber quality beyond three (3) weeks for better prices

·      No established grading system

·      Standard system for grading potatoes

·      Market support

·      Village-level processing

·      Encourage  village-level processing and market support for processed product

Problems and Concerns

Research, Development and Extension Agenda

R&D

Extension

Bruises, cuts and abrasions during harvesting, hauling and transporting

Lack of labor source during harvest season

Improvement of harvesting implements to minimize damages due to bruising and scratching

Too expensive packaging materials (plastics, newspapers, red bags, sacks) and transport cost

Improvement of packaging to minimize damages during handling and transporting

Adaptation of the tramline system in hauling the produce

Problems and Concerns

Research, Development and Extension Agenda

R&D

Extension

Damage during hauling from farm to delivery truck;

Additional damage while transporting the crop from the farm to the trading post or market outlet due to bruising

Better handling system and technology with the use of plastic crates

Better transport facilities (roads, and tramlines)