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Review on tropical root and tuber crops. I. Storage methods and quality changes
V Ravi1, J Aked, C Balagopalan
1Central Tuber Crops Research Institute, Trivandrum, India.
Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition
|October 1, 1996
Summary
Root and tuber crops are vital globally but face significant postharvest losses due to perishability. This review examines traditional and modern storage methods to preserve these essential food sources.
Area of Science:
- Agricultural Science
- Food Science
- Postharvest Technology
Background:
- Root and tuber crops (e.g., cassava, sweet potato, yams, aroids) are crucial globally, especially in tropical regions, serving as food and industrial raw materials.
- Perishability and postharvest losses significantly hinder the full utilization of these valuable crops.
- Effective storage solutions are critical to mitigate these losses and ensure food security.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review traditional and modern storage practices for root and tuber crops.
- To identify constraints associated with postharvest storage.
- To incorporate pre- and postharvest factors influencing storage.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of existing storage practices.
- Evaluation of traditional, low-cost farmer methods.
- Review of modern storage techniques (refrigeration, freezing, chemical treatments, irradiation).
Main Results:
- Various traditional and modern storage methods exist for root and tuber crops.
- Both approaches have documented studies and evaluations.
- Pre- and postharvest factors significantly impact storage success.
Conclusions:
- Addressing perishability through appropriate storage is key to maximizing root and tuber crop utilization.
- A combination of traditional knowledge and modern techniques can enhance storage efficacy.
- Understanding influencing factors is vital for developing sustainable postharvest solutions.