GAP Harvesting & Post-Harvest Handling

Question 1

Why is it important to handle crops carefully during harvesting?

Accepted Answer

To avoid crop damage and maintain quality

Answer

It is important to handle crops carefully during harvesting to avoid physical damage and maintain their quality. Rough handling can cause bruising, cuts, or crushing, which reduces the market value and shelf life of the produce. Damaged crops are also more susceptible to spoilage and microbial contamination, making careful handling essential for delivering high-quality products to consumers.

Question 2

What is the role of temperature control in post-harvest handling?

Accepted Answer

It maintains freshness and prevents spoilage

Answer

Temperature control is critical in post-harvest handling because it maintains freshness and prevents spoilage of crops. By keeping produce at optimal cool temperatures, metabolic processes like respiration and ripening are slowed down significantly. This extends shelf life, inhibits the growth of spoilage-causing microorganisms, and preserves the quality and nutritional value of the crops.

Question 3

Why is sanitation important in post-harvest handling?

Accepted Answer

It prevents bacterial growth and contamination

Answer

Sanitation is paramount in post-harvest handling as it prevents bacterial growth and contamination. Thorough cleaning and disinfection of equipment, facilities, and workers' hands eliminate harmful microorganisms that could transfer to crops. This practice is essential for safeguarding food safety, reducing the risk of foodborne illnesses, and ensuring the produce reaches consumers in a wholesome state.

Question 4

What is the impact of improper storage on post-harvest crops?

Accepted Answer

It leads to spoilage and quality loss

Answer

Improper storage conditions for post-harvest crops, such as incorrect temperature, humidity, or ventilation, inevitably lead to spoilage and quality loss. These suboptimal environments accelerate deterioration due to microbial growth, excessive ripening, or moisture loss. Consequently, crops lose their freshness, nutritional value, and marketability, resulting in significant waste and economic losses.

Question 5

Why should workers wear gloves during post-harvest handling?

Accepted Answer

To avoid injury and contamination

Answer

Workers should wear gloves during post-harvest handling primarily to avoid injury and contamination. Gloves protect workers' hands from potential irritants or sharp edges, while also acting as a crucial barrier against the transfer of bacteria, viruses, and other contaminants from hands to the crops. This practice is a fundamental component of maintaining food safety and hygiene standards.

(GAP) Good Agricultural Practices Certified Practice Test

(GAP) Good Agricultural Practices Certified Practice Test

GAP Harvesting & Post-Harvest Handling