Document Type : Review Article
Authors
- Mawela Aluthgedara Ralala Madhushika Pushpamali Jayathilaka 1
- Jayalathpurage Sasanka Jayalath 2
- Wickrema Arachchige Harindra Champa 3
- Thushanthi Perera 1
1 Department of Nutrition & Dietetics, Faculty of Livestock, Fisheries & Nutrition, Wayamba University of Sri Lanka, Makandura, Gonawila, 6017, Sri Lanka
2 Department of Aquaculture & Fisheries, Faculty of Livestock, Fisheries & Nutrition, Wayamba University of Sri Lanka, Makandura, Gonawila, 60170, Sri Lanka
3 Department of Food Science & Technology, Faculty of Livestock, Fisheries & Nutrition, Wayamba University of Sri Lanka, Makandura, Gonawila, 60170, Sri Lanka
Abstract
Purpose: Mango (Mangifera indica L.) is a globally choicest fruit crop facing substantial pre- and post-harvest challenges, resulting in significant postharvest losses worldwide. These losses impact food security, economic growth, and the sustainability of the mango supply chain. This systematic review explores existing literature on causes and mitigation strategies of postharvest losses of mango supply chain providing a comprehensive overview of the sector. Findings: Mango faces significant postharvest losses due to damage caused by faulty handling practices, diseases and pest infestations. Key challenges include inadequate packaging, poor storage, and inefficient transport facilities alongside insufficient knowledge dissemination mechanisms, disorganized marketing systems, and limited government interventions leading to exacerbate losses. Providing improved mango varieties, investing in infrastructure, strengthening stakeholder collaboration, enhancing knowledge dissemination and establishing mango-based value-added industries are critical for the sustainability of the sector. Adopting standardized harvest maturity indices, consumer friendly methods for pest and disease prevention, and applying edible coatings to maintain fruit quality play a pivotal role for supply of quality mangoes to fresh and processed markets. The findings emphasize immediate necessity for collaboration between government, non-government, and private sector companies to make available funds for research and startups in mango sector. Limitations: This review is limited by the availability of region-specific data and variations in postharvest loss assessment methodologies. Directions for future research: Future research should focus on the development of non-destructive techniques to determine correct harvest maturity stage of mango precisely, advanced technologies to monitor and manage the losses, such as digital tracking systems, smart packaging solutions, and eco-friendly preservation techniques.
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Main Subjects
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