Post-Harvest Tech Firms Bank on Digital Innovation

Despite India's position as the world's second-largest fruit producer and a significant exporter, post-harvest losses range from 6 per cent to 15 per cent, primarily due to fragmented supply chains and inadequate infrastructure.

- Dipti Barve

Key technologies and strategies include cold chain development, modified atmosphere packaging, edible coatings, minimal processing, temperature management, controlled atmosphere storage, and use of anti-senescent compounds to delay ripening. Additionally, packaging innovations, better transportation systems with refrigeration, and education of farmers on best handling practices are crucial. The post-harvest technology market for fruits in India is growing significantly, driven by the need to reduce post-harvest losses (which range from 6 per cent to 15 per cent) and extend shelf life. India’s fruit production reached over 102 million tonne in 2020-21, with key fruits including mangoes, walnuts, grapes, bananas, and pomegranates dominating exports. Despite the country’s large role in fruit production, India captures only about 1 per cent of the global fruit export market, partly due to fragmented supply chains and inadequate post-harvest infrastructure.

Key post-harvest technologies applied to fruits include advanced harvesting tools to minimise damage, cold storage, controlled atmosphere storage, modified atmosphere packaging, and fruit coatings that extend shelf life by preserving softness, colour, odour, and flavour. The use of coatings is particularly significant, expected to account for over 40 per cent of post-harvest treatment sales in India in 2025, growing at a CAGR of around 3 per cent.

Cold chain infrastructure improvements and quality assurance are gradually enhancing fruit export acceptance. The market is further propelled by rising consumer demand for residue-free and organic fruits, along with government and private sector investment in storage, packaging, and logistics technology.

Post-harvest management practices such as sorting, grading, cleaning, and optimal storage conditions are critical for reducing wastage, maintaining nutritional quality, and increasing farmer income by enabling access to distant and global markets.