POST-HARVEST HANDLING AND PRESERVATION METHODS OF TOMATO (Solanum lycopersicum L.) IN NIGERIA: A REVIEW

Abstract

Tomato production is gaining popularity among horticultural farmers worldwide due to its economic and nutritional importance. This has been achieved through scientific research advances made along the entire production chain. Moreover, scientific researchers paid little attention to tomatoes' post-harvest issues while focusing on improving production. This paper examines post-harvest handling practices and methods to reduce tomato losses, and suggests techniques that farmers can use to remedy the situation. Tomato producers in developing countries have recorded good harvests in recent years. However, the good harvests recorded do not translate into profit due to losses incurred from poor post-harvest handling and preservation. This review revealed that implementing appropriate handling practices, including harvesting, pre-cooling after harvest, cleaning, sorting, grading, packaging, and storage, improved the quality of perishable tomatoes. Different preservation methods, such as refrigeration, heat treatment, drying, tomato pasting, and modified atmosphere packaging, play a vital role in reducing tomato losses. It is concluded that proper handling practices and preservation methods have improved the quality and shelf life of tomatoes, making them available all year round.