TRANSPORTATION CHALLENGES IN POSTHARVEST HANDLING: IMPLICATIONS FOR QUALITY, SAFETY, AND LOSSES OF AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS IN DEVELOPING NATIONS

Abstract

This study examines the impacts of transportation on post-harvest quality of agricultural products, particularly focusing on the effect of poor transport systems on products’ deterioration and economic losses. A systematic review of related literature on the subject was utilized in this work. Evidence from the scholarly materials points to the fact that freshness, safety, and marketability of agricultural products are all impacted by transportation, which is an essential link between producing locations, storage facilities, and marketplaces. Conversely, in Nigeria, transportation-related problems in agricultural production include poor road networks, insufficient logistics organization, inadequate cold-chain facilities, and lack of handling facilities. These had resulted in substantial post-harvest losses, especially for perishable farm products like fruits, roots, vegetables, fish and animal products. These elements lower the nutritional and aesthetic value of produce by causing biochemical deterioration, microbial infection, and mechanical damage. The study also revealed that enhancing packaging systems, temperature control, and transportation infrastructure are important ways to reduce losses. Ultimately, the research concludes that well-organized and sustainable transportation structures are essential to improving agricultural products’ nutritional quality, storability, and profitability for economic growth and food security.