Postharvest Loss of Carrots: The Case of Benguet, Philippines

This paper examines the postharvest handling system of carrot and associated losses in the Benguet province. The study adopted the value chain analysis framework to have an in-depth understanding on the postharvest handling system, identify the key value chain actors, major market channels and assess both qualitative and quantitative losses from the farm to the retail market. The research employed a combination of survey methods, focus group discussions (FGD), key informant interviews (KII), case analysis, and literature searches to gather necessary primary and secondary data. Quantitative loss was determined through direct measurement of physical losses, while qualitative loss was evaluated using visual quality rating (VQR) based on an established quality profile (QP). The study was conducted in Benguet. Postproduction handling practices consisted of harvesting, hauling to the nearest barangay road and cleaning or washing before it is marketed. Postharvest losses from farm to market which is Barangay Catlubong, Buguias to Benguet Trading Post were measured. Postharvest losses after harvest totaled 0.97 percent and after one (1) day, losses of 1.89 percent incurred which all emanated from weight loss, spillages and mechanical damages. After five to six days, the total losses at the wholesalers/retailers level were 35.4 percent due to post-harvest defects, physiological, pathogen and mechanical damages. After seven to eight days, the total losses were about 44.55 percent. Postharvest losses were particularly noticeable at the wholesaler-retailer level, where the causes of defects became evident