Feasibility Study on Commercial Adoption of Passive Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP) Bags to Reduce Post-Harvest Loss of Fresh Vegetables
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
• Project objectives: Mandala Agrifresh Pvt. Ltd. in collaboration with Commercial Agriculture for Smallholders and Agri business (CASA) project investigated the feasibility of adopting passive MAP bags and ethylene absorbers to reduce postharvest losses and extend shelf life of vegetables, thereby improving market access for rural farmers in Nepal.
• Methodologies: The methodologies included action research, commercial demonstrations, and impact assessments through detailed documentation and data collection.
• Key findings: MAP bags significantly outperformed control packaging in preserving vegetable quality, showing reduced weight loss and better retention of freshness, colour, and firmness. This enhanced shelf life will improve marketability, leading to higher farmer income and reduced waste for traders. While MAP's effectiveness across produce types varies, it was most notable in perishable leafy greens. However, for widespread adoption some challenges remains in the supply chain management and awareness among the actors involved. A holistic approach, including local government support, capacity building, and successful case studies, is essential for wider adoption and integration of MAP technology into the agricultural supply chain.
HIGHLIGHTS OF THE PROJECT:
• Conducted a collaborative action research across different vegetable supply chains in various regions of Nepal, engaging local farmers, traders, and key agricultural supply chain actors, to understand and improve postharvest practices.
• Conducted over 22 trainings and/or orientation sessions on post-harvest management and technologies as a part of capacity building to empower the stakeholders involved in fresh vegetable trading. Reached over 1,000 farmers and traders through training and demonstrations.
• Conducted four commercial-scale demonstrations successfully integrating the postharvest technologies like Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP) bags, ethylene absorbers, and germination sheets.
• Successfully introduced and showcased practical benefits of postharvest technologies like MAP technology in real-world supply chains of selected commodities like spinach, green peas, tomatoes, and capsicum.