The Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) has responded to concerns from apple growers and traders about a recent drop in fruit prices. KCCI clarifies that the current apple supply in the market is not from non-Controlled Atmosphere (CA) storage, so any price predictions based on this are misleading. CA storage manipulates the storage environment’s carbon dioxide and oxygen concentrations, temperature, and humidity to maintain fruit quality and prolong shelf life.
Vice President of KCCI, Aashiq Shangloo, stated that the apples currently in the market constitute less than one percent of the total product. He emphasized that an accurate evaluation can only be made when apples from CA storage are available. These apples have a shelf life of over 20 days, providing a significant advantage over non-CA stored apples.
Reports in Kashmir media suggested a decline in apple rates, with some produce yet to reach mandis from cold storages. Shangloo revealed that the total apple industry growth in Kashmir is around 2 mln tons, with a storage capacity of 300,000 tons. The industry supports approximately 3.5 million people's livelihoods in the region.
CA storage has been crucial in supporting Kashmir's struggling apple industry, allowing local growers to sell their produce during off-seasons and ensuring favorable returns. Annually, Kashmir harvests 1.5-1.8 million tons of apples, contributing over 75% to India’s total apple production.
Source: freepresskashmir.news
