India, Sri Lanka:
Reducing fruit losses using nanotechnology
The post-harvest losses — between 35 and 40% and valued at about $800 million annually — affect the livelihoods of nearly one-third of the population, the majority of whom are smallholder farmers.
Reducing these losses can not only improve farmers’ incomes but could also encourage more consumption of this highly nutritious fruit in a region where per capita consumption is only half of the recommended level.
Past research to increase post-harvest shelf life has yet to produce methods that are affordable, technologically viable, and can be scaled-up. Several of these methods are primarily designed to keep fruits like apples and pears firm. For fruits like mango, ripening and softening are essential to produce a high quality product.
The need for new solutions comes at a time when mango-grower federations are raising awareness of the need for better post-harvest storage.
The research
Nanotechnology products are increasingly moving from industry to agriculture, where the average farmer can easily use them. In this project, supported by IDRC and DFATD through the Canadian International Food Security Research Fund (CIFSRF), scientists are developing a new packaging system that extends the shelf life of fruits.
The University of Guelph in Canada has invented a patented technology using a safe, plant-derived chemical compound (hexanal) that reduces post-harvest losses. The Tamil Nadu Agricultural University in India has developed a nano-film to extend the shelf life of fruits and vegetables. Similarly, the Industrial Technology Institute in Sri Lanka has a bio-wax formulation that helps to reduce post-harvest damage. The project integrates these discoveries using nanotechnology to develop a simple and low-cost hexanal delivery system that prolongs freshness and improves the quality of highly perishable fruits.
The nano-particles in this project are developed from agricultural waste products, namely the natural fibres extracted from coconut husks and banana plants, creating new income opportunities for small-scale entrepreneurs, particularly women. The project is also building links with the private sector for biodegradable packaging materials.
Researchers expect to adapt the technologies developed in this project to other economically important horticultural crops, including fruits, flowers, and vegetables. Benefits for the soft fruit industry, such as berries, can also be extended to Canada.
For more information:
Sara Ahmed
IDRC (India)
Email: sahmed@idrc.ca
Susan Robertson
IDRC (Canada)
Email: srobertson@idrc.ca