Effects of postharvest losses on tomato farmers in selected local government areas of Plateau State, Nigeria

This study examined the effects of postharvest losses on tomato farmers in Plateau State, Nigeria. Primary data were collected from tomato farmers in Jos South and Langtang North Local Government Areas of the State with predominance in tomato production. Data were analyzed with relevant descriptive statistics, multiple regressions and Likert-type scale rating. The results showed that determinants of postharvest losses include variety of tomatoes, mode of transportation and distance from farm to market as they have a significant effect on postharvest losses among tomato farmers in the study area. Education and postharvest losses such as transportation and storage losses have a significant effect on the income of the farmers. The study also identified that the main constraints to tomato farmers were high cost of transportation, insecurity, inadequate support from the government, lack of standard price, lack of storage facilities and high production cost. The study recommends that ministry of agriculture and extension agents should educate and train the tomato farmers on the best method of managing postharvest losses. The government should also provide good roads and means of transportation as this will help tomatoes arrive at their destinations safer and faster.