Technologies and practices used by producers in postharvest handling of corn and beans in Estelí, Madriz and Nueva Segovia, Nicaragua

Abstract

Adequate postharvest management contributes to guarantee food security and added value of grain production. Producers resort to post-harvest technologies and practices to avoid losses. The study focused on the analysis of the current situation of conditioning and storage of corn (Zea mays L.) and beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) used by small-scale producers to reduce postharvest losses. A total of 379 surveys were applied, distributed in the departments of Estelí, Madriz and Nueva Segovia, Nicaragua, during the period 2019-2020. The results of the study highlight that, in conditioning operations, the pre-drying stage at the field level and manual pounding represent some problems in grain deterioration, this is due to the use of inadequate practices and climatic conditions. The stored grain management system uses silos, sacks and barrels, with the use of mostly chemical products to manage storage pests. Post-harvest losses in grains have an economic, social and food importance that is often not valued in its true dimension, with losses in quantity and quality.