Análisis de pérdidas pos – cosecha en diferentes tipos de hortalizas en la provincia de Chimborazo del Mercado Emmpa

Abstract

The wholesale market of Riobamba city of the Municipal Public Company Agricultural Producers Market "San Pedro" (EMMPA) has an extremely prominent level of wastage in vegetables, totaling 40%, caused by poor post-harvest handling of these legumes by traders in the sector, leading to significant economic losses. Therefore, this research aimed to analyze post-harvest losses in several types of vegetables in the Chimborazo Province wholesale market in Riobamba. The methodology implemented had an exploratory and diagnostic approach to analyze vegetable wastage and economic losses. An experimental design was not used due to the wide variety of vegetables; samples came from three species (lettuce, cabbage, and coriander) in mature and fresh states. Student's t-test and sensory analysis (colour, flavour, texture) were essential for evaluating parameters such as acidity and pH. Also, a technical sheet on how to handle these vegetables was necessary to prevent economic losses. Findings determined the absence of significant differences in pH and acidity among the three vegetables, with only lettuce acidity showing significance in the fresh state being low and high in the mature state. Sensory evaluation in both presentations reported a preference for the fresh state of vegetables. Finally, traders should reuse the product by composting to reduce the economic loss rate. Another relevant aspect concerns training in vegetable handling. A final recommendation is to give regular staff training in all areas where food is handled to reduce losses and provide contamination-free products.