Identifying the Primary Reasons for Post-Harvest Losses and Proposing Strategies to Minimize them in Cotton Crops

Abstract

Background: Post-harvest losses (PHL) are the decline in quantity and
quality of agricultural products between harvest and consumption.
These losses, which can be ascribed to poor handling, inadequate
storage, pests, diseases, and inefficient supply chains, pose significant
threats to food security, economic stability, and long-term viability.
Objectives: Through an examination of three agro-ecological zones—
Faisalabad, Multan, and Lodhran—the research sought to identify the
leading causes of post-harvest losses and to propose empiricallysupported mitigation strategies. Methods: In a comprehensive mixedmethods analysis, "inadequate storage," cited by 35% of respondents,
and "pests/diseases," cited by 25% of respondents, emerged as the most
significant contributors. Results: Quantitative evaluations revealed
distinct losses in Faisalabad (15% decline from 1000 kg to 850 kg),
Multan (20% decline from 1000 kg to 800 kg), and Lodhran (22%
decline from 1000 kg to 780 kg). Evaluations of storage conditions
revealed disparities, particularly in Multan, where average
temperatures were 28°C, relative humidity was 65%, and insect control
measures were ineffective. Losses decreased from 22% to 12% as a
result of the implementation of strategic interventions, such as
enhanced ventilation. Conclusion: The findings highlighted the critical
need to refine post-harvest practices to improve global food security
and sustainability.