Ensuring your perishables last longer in the time of coronavirus
Now that coronavirus is in Kenya, farmers across the country are worried that some of the vegetables and fruits that they have harvested could soon perish due to lack of market.
In Kenya at least 40 to 50 per cent of the fruits and vegetables produced are usually lost or wasted along the supply chain.
But now due to fast-spreading virus, it could get worse and the percentage could increase in due course.
So how can farmers ensure that their perishable goods remain fresh?
It is good to note that sound management and post-harvest technology adoption are some of the ways to the realisation of reduced losses in agriculture value chains therefore it would ensure better returns for the farmers.
Once farmers adapt good management then they are sure to save losses of up to 40 per cent of their harvest.
Here are some of the steps towards ensuring you that your goods stay fresh.
Pot in pot evaporative cooler
As a farmer you can store vegetables, milk, fruits, tomatoes and any other commodity that perishes quickly via the above method because it cools them.
For you to achieve this, you need two pots. One large and the other small.
Put your vegetables on the smaller pot then insert to the larger pot, but ensure you leave a space between the two and put enough sand to separate the two pots.
With this method, your vegetables will remain fresh. They will be preserved and will therefore stay for long.
Do not refrigerate tomatoes
If you want your tomatoes to always maintain their freshness, do not put them in the refrigerator because they normally lose their flavor and texture when chilled.
Drying
If you want to keep your tomatoes fresh, you can always sundry them in order to prevent them from spoiling and so that they can stay fresh.
The main aim of drying your vegetables is to reduce the water content to a level insufficient for the growth.
This method also works for onions.
Canning
This works best for your greens for example spinach and sukumawiki. The best way to make them maintain their colour and taste is by knowing how to best preserve them.
Ones you put your greens in the refrigerator, they lose their flavour. Therefore, the best way is by storing them in bags filled with air.
This will help your greens not to lose their freshness quickly.
Use crates
When packaging your fruits and vegetables use crates instead of sacks because they help to reduce the mechanical injuries during transportation.
Even when you decide to store your vegetables at home, do not use sacks because they will easily rot. Ensure they are in open air. Therefore, keep them in crates.
Plastic crates are recommended because they can always be cleaned regularly to avoiding contamination of your produce.
Want to get latest farming tips and videos?
Join Us
Share this article on social
The Standard Group Plc is a multi-media organization
with investments in media platforms spanning newspaper print operations,
television, radio broadcasting, digital and online services. The Standard Group
is recognized as a leading multi-media house in Kenya with a key influence in
matters of national and international interest.
How to handle chicken before slaughter
Role of water in animal health and productivity
9 causes of decreased egg production in flock
In Kenya, livestock farming stands as a testament to tradition and resilience
Parsley farming: How to get it right, make cash
Chilli Value addition ideas to venture
Get to know the stages of calving in your cattle
Initiative to woo farmers back to cashew nuts
join 