Post-Harvest Handling to Reduce Losses

Illustrated How-To Guide for Farmers

Post-harvest handling means all the steps that happen after harvesting — like cleaning, sorting, packing, storing, and transporting produce. Doing it properly prevents damage, spoilage, and loss.

Step 1: Harvest at the Right Time

What to Check (Visual Clues):
-Fruits/vegetables look mature (color and size)
- Harvest early morning or late evening (cool weather)

What It Might Look Like in an Illustration:
A farmer harvesting tomatoes early in the morning with a shaded basket under a tree.

Tips:
✔ Use sharp tools to prevent bruising
✔ Never pull or twist produce roughly

Step 2: Cleaning & Washing

Why It Matters:
Removes soil, pests, and chemicals that can cause rotting.

Illustration Idea:
Buckets of clean water, farmers gently washing vegetables, using a mesh tray to drain.

Quick Checklist:
- Use clean water
- Don’t soak too long - it damages produce
- Dry properly before packing

Step 3: Sorting and Grading

Sort by:
✔ Size (small, medium, large)
✔ Quality (fresh, damaged, overripe)

Illustration Idea:
Three baskets labeled Good, Average, Rejects.

Why It's Important:
Mixed-quality packing increases damage and reduces price.