Storage Mechanisms and the Reduction of Post Harvest Loss in Fresh Cassava Roots: A Conceptual Review

The study on storage mechanisms and the reduction of post-harvest loss for fresh cassava roots: a conceptual review was motivated by the massive post - harvest loss experienced by cassava farmers in Idomi, Yakurr Local Government Area of Cross River State. These losses have hindered the effective commercialization of the crop in the area. Based on the above, the study was aimed at examining the effect of storage mechanisms such as waxing, field clamps storage, storage in boxes lined with moist sawdust and storage in plastic film wraps / bags. These storage mechanisms were examined in order to determine their effect in reducing post - harvest loss for fresh cassava roots. In line with the above, exploratory research design was adopted in order to enable the researcher obtain empirical and qualitative information as regard the subject under investigation. Hence, it was revealed that the storage mechanisms such as waxing, field clamps, storage in boxes lined with moist sawdust and storage in plastic film wraps / bags all have a positive effect in the reduction of post - harvest loss for fresh cassava roots. Hence, it was concluded that storage mechanisms such as waxing, field clamps, storage in boxes lined with moist sawdust and storage in plastic film wraps / bags should be adopted and properly implemented in Idomi; because they help in the reduction of post - harvest loss for fresh cassava roots by extending the shelve life of the crop thereby promoting the marketing and commercialization of the crop.