POSTHARVEST Meaning and
Definition
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Postharvest refers to the activities and processes that occur after the harvesting of agricultural products or commodities, with the aim of preserving their quality and value until they reach the end consumer. It involves various methods and techniques used to minimize losses, maintain freshness, and prolong the shelf life of harvested crops.
The postharvest phase begins with the proper handling and transportation of harvested commodities from the field to storage or processing facilities. During this stage, the products may be sorted, graded, and cleaned to remove any dirt, debris, or damaged items. Further processing steps such as packaging, cooling, and conditioning may also be carried out to control temperature, humidity, and other environmental factors to prevent spoilage.
Postharvest techniques are designed to maintain the nutritional value, taste, texture, and appearance of the harvested crops throughout the supply chain. This can include the application of appropriate preservation methods like refrigeration, controlled atmosphere storage, drying, or chemical treatments to slow down physiological processes, inhibit microbial growth, and reduce postharvest losses.
Postharvest management also involves quality control measures such as regular inspections, sampling, and testing to ensure compliance with standards and regulations. It may also encompass the development and implementation of strategies and technologies to enhance marketability, reduce waste, and increase the economic value of the harvested commodities.
Overall, postharvest activities are critical in maximizing the potential of agricultural products, minimizing losses, and providing safe, nutritious, and high-quality food for consumers.
Common Misspellings for POSTHARVEST
- oostharvest
- lostharvest
- -ostharvest
- 0ostharvest
- pistharvest
- pkstharvest
- plstharvest
- ppstharvest
- p0stharvest
- p9stharvest
- poatharvest
- poztharvest
- poxtharvest
- podtharvest
- poetharvest
- powtharvest
- posrharvest
- posfharvest
- posgharvest
- posyharvest
Etymology of POSTHARVEST
The word "postharvest" is derived from two English words: "post" and "harvest".
1. Post: The word "post" is from the Latin word "post", meaning "after". It has been used in English since the 16th century to indicate a position or state following an event or action.
2. Harvest: The word "harvest" comes from the Old English word "hærfest", which originally referred to the season for gathering crops. Over time, it also came to represent the act of gathering crops, specifically during the autumn season.
Putting these two words together, "postharvest" refers to the period or activities that occur after the harvest. It is commonly used in the context of agriculture, referring to the handling, processing, and storage of crops after they have been harvested.
