Performance Evaluation of a Low-cost Cold Storage System on Fruits and Vegetables in Rural Areas

This paper evaluates the performance of a low-cost cold storage system developed to preserve the quality and extend the shelf life of perishable agricultural produce, including fruits and vegetables. The low-cost cold storage system was constructed using locally available materials and energy-efficient components, the system aims to offer an affordable and accessible solution for small and medium-scale farmers in the rural areas of Nigeria. Internal temperature control and stability, the performance parameter was assessed under varying load conditions using selected produce. The system effectively maintained optimal storage conditions, significantly reducing post-harvest losses and maintaining the freshness of fruits and vegetables over an extended period compared to ambient storage. This is particularly critical in regions within the Inter-tropical Convergence Zone, where high ambient temperatures contribute heavily to postharvest losses, threatening food security and sustainability. The smart cold storage unit, designed with a capacity of 20kg and a temperature range of -17°C to 55°C, stored fruits (mango and pineapple) at 9°C and vegetables (cabbage and carrot) at 0°C, while control samples were left at ambient temperatures ranging from 31.4°C to 35.2°C. After 5 hours, produce stored in the system exhibited significantly lower weight loss: mango (0.7% vs. 1.9%), pineapple (0.75% vs. 2.75%), cabbage (1% vs. 3.5%), and carrot (2.1% vs. 7.6%). These results demonstrate the system's effectiveness in reducing deterioration caused by high temperatures, slowing respiration rates, and extending shelf life. The cold storage unit's consistent performance and minimal energy consumption make it ideal for rural or off-grid use, especially when powered by renewable energy. Overall, this study underscores the potential of smart, low-cost cold storage technologies as sustainable solutions for reducing food waste and enhancing food security in temperature-sensitive regions.