The behavior of fishermen in handling post-harvest fish and its quality in East Java province

The purpose of this study is to examine how fishermen handle post-harvest fish and its quality. In three distinct East Java, Indonesian locations Banyuwangi, Surabaya, and Sampang, primary data was collected via surveys and in-depth interviews. Ordinary Least Square (OLS) regression was employed as estimation technique. The findings indicated that although most fishermen used ice to store their caught fish, not enough ice was used. Fishermen used either very little or no ice at all because they were only fishing for a few hours. Fish buyers also do not want the condition of the fish to be cold because they think that the fish is no longer fresh or was caught yesterday or a few days ago. Regression analysis indicates that the fish quality index (FQI) is positively correlated with environment condition, working hours, work experience, and selling time. Good environmental conditions provide a cleaner fish's storage, reducing contamination and damage. The more time spent fishing and experience involve better handling practices during longer fishing trips, which has a positive impact on fish quality. In contrast, age, gender, fishing group, and temperature have negatively significant on FQI, while there is not enough evidence to support ice usage, storage, and internet access to have impact on FQI. Based on the results, the policy recommendation is to enhancing the awareness and knowledge of fish quality among fish purchasers and fishermen is vital to attain higher-quality fish. The national strategy's current efforts for accelerating stunting prevention could be incorporated with the behavioral change communication approach on fish quality.