A recent study conducted by Dr. Pankaj Pathare of Sultan Qaboos University has identified six engineering technologies with the potential to significantly reduce post-harvest losses of fruits and vegetables in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. The findings aim to enhance food security, improve supply chain efficiency, and curb resource wastage in a region that heavily depends on food imports.
Post-harvest losses in the GCC are estimated to range from 30 to 50 percent of fresh produce, posing a major challenge to the food systems in the region. These losses result in considerable economic damage, squander precious water and energy, and exacerbate food security concerns, particularly given the Arabian Peninsula’s harsh climatic conditions characterized by high temperatures and elevated humidity in coastal areas.
Dr. Pathare’s research involved an evidence-based evaluation of vulnerabilities at different stages of the fresh produce supply chain, including harvesting, handling, storage, and transport. The study then proposed sustainable and advanced engineering interventions to mitigate these losses.
One of the technologies assessed is a computer vision system designed to detect mechanical damage early in apples. This technology was effective in identifying bruising at initial stages and was able to correlate the damage to quality deterioration and weight loss during storage.
The study also explored the use of cold plasma technology as a non-thermal preservation method for dates. This approach demonstrated improvements in fruit quality, lowered microbial load, and extended shelf life under refrigeration.
In the area of sustainable food processing, researchers developed a hybrid drying system that combines hot air and infrared heating to dry courgette slices. This method improved both time and energy efficiency while preserving the physical attributes and quality of the product.
Further investigation into banana vulnerability used pendulum impact testing, simulating the mechanical shocks undergone during handling. The study established links between impact severity, storage temperature, and rapid ripening, thereby providing a scientific basis for defining safer handling practices.
Regarding transport and packaging, vibration analyses revealed that packaging design is more influential than the thickness of packaging materials in reducing damage during transit. This finding underscores the importance of optimizing package engineering rather than simply increasing material use.
Lastly, the research examined enhanced solar drying technology for small fish, showing it effectively lowers moisture content and water activity. Compared to conventional drying methods, this technology also improved microbiological safety and sensory qualities.
Collectively, these technological solutions offer promising avenues to reduce post-harvest losses in the GCC, potentially easing the region’s food security pressures while advancing more sustainable food supply chains.