Ensuring Safe Food from Field to Fork: The Crucial Role of Post-Harvest Management in Food Safety.

India’s agricultural sector is poised for significant growth, with record grain output projected at 357.7 million tonnes for the 2024-25 fiscal year. This achievement highlights the critical importance of not only enhancing production capabilities but also ensuring effective post-harvest management systems. Addressing challenges in storage, handling, processing, and transportation is now imperative to maximize the benefits of these bumper harvests. Current estimates reveal staggering post-harvest losses of ₹1.5–1.6 lakh crore annually, with about 10% of grains and over 30% of fruits and vegetables failing to reach consumers in a consumable state.

The implications of these losses extend to both the economy and public health. For the average citizen, inadequate post-harvest management means increased food safety risks and potentially higher food prices due to supply chain inefficiencies. Farmers may face distress sales, unable to fetch optimal prices for their yields, leading to diminished returns and affecting livelihoods. Conversely, improved post-harvest infrastructure and logistics offer opportunities to maintain quality, reduce waste, and enhance food security, ensuring that agricultural advancements translate into tangible benefits for consumers.

Going forward, the government’s focus must shift towards comprehensive strategies that bolster post-harvest systems. Initiatives such as the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana (PMKSY) are vital in facilitating cold-chain infrastructure development, which addresses critical challenges in preserving food quality. Long-term investments in scientific storage, efficient transportation, and digital tracking systems are essential. By promoting collaboration among Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs) and leveraging technology for better logistics management, India can create a resilient food supply chain that not only mitigates losses but also safeguards public health and enhances economic stability.

Source: The Hindu

(Expert Note: This report was independently prepared by the Wealthova Economy team.)