Assessing post-harvest loss data reporting methods for tomato in least developed countries

Post-harvest losses in tomato production affect food availability and income generation in Least Developed Countries (LDCs). This study examines tomato post-harvest loss data reported as a percentage of total domestic production, with two objectives: to evaluate reporting methods in the FAO Food Loss and Waste Database and to analyze reported loss magnitudes across supply chain phases. FAOSTAT data from 2000 to 2022 were used for nine LDCs: Tanzania, Bangladesh, Benin, Nepal, Cambodia, Rwanda, Ethiopia, Lao People's Democratic Republic, and Niger. Quantitative analysis applied univariate and multivariate approaches, including Analysis of Variance and Kruskal-Wallis tests, to assess variation across countries, years, and supply chain stages. Reported tomato post-harvest losses ranged from 20 to 50%, with marked differences across countries and phases. Tanzania recorded 50% loss at the retail stage in 2005, while Benin, Nepal, and Bangladesh reported losses of 39.5%, 35%, and 32.9%, respectively. Lower losses were observed in Cambodia (24.6%), Nepal (23%), Ethiopia (17%), Lao People's Democratic Republic (16.9%), Niger (15%), and Rwanda (14.7%). Loss estimates varied in magnitude and by supply chain stage, reflecting differences in reporting approaches and data sources. These results show that variation in reported tomato post-harvest losses is closely linked to reporting methods and stage definitions rather than production conditions alone. The study contributes by identifying limitations in cross-country comparability within FAOSTAT and clarifying how reporting heterogeneity affects interpretation of loss estimates. Strengthened reporting consistency and transparency would support more reliable analyses and evidence-based decisions for tomato post-harvest management in LDCs.