Postharvest Handling and Losses of Vegetables in the Traditional Public Market of Surigao City, Philippines

Abstract

This study examines postharvest handling practices and associated losses among retailers and wholesalers of pinakbet such as vegetables—ampalaya, eggplant, okra, pole sitao, and squash in Surigao City, Philippines. The research highlights key contributing factors to postharvest losses during transit, storage, and marketing. Findings show that improper transportation using motorcycles with one-sided wheels and open-sided trucks, inadequate packaging materials such as cellophane and sacks, and the absence of proper storage facilities, particularly refrigeration, result in significant physical and mechanical damage to the vegetables. Furthermore, traditional marketing methods and a lack of technical knowledge among traders exacerbate the deterioration of produce quality. Despite these challenges, some adaptive practices were observed, including trimming damaged parts, selling fresh-cut vegetables locally known as sari-sari, and utilizing waste for animal feed or compost. A small portion added value by cooking slightly damaged vegetables into ready-to-eat dishes. Additionally, wholesalers established market linkages with island barangays to manage surplus produce. The study concludes that improving postharvest handling through training, better infrastructure, appropriate packaging, and value-adding strategies can significantly reduce losses and improve profitability. Recommendations include the promotion of sustainable waste management, support for cold storage solutions, and stronger policy interventions to address systemic issues in the vegetable marketing chain.