The Agricultural Survey and Postharvest Handling Research of Avocado in Taiwan

Abstract

The technology for improving postharvest handling from growing field to consumers has been the major subject of detailed research for over a century. The cost for harvest and postharvest up to 30% to 60% of all production and marketing system during horticultural produce, and significant quality loss due to improper processing. Technologies involved in handling, packaging, precooling, transportation, which would minimize losses, maintain high quality, and enhance value-added for horticultural crops that had been extensively applied in Taiwan. For example, precooling is the most common practice, and forced air cooling and vacuum cooling are widely adapted. In this article, information of current postharvest technology in Taiwan, including value, production, and planted area of fruits and vegetables, will be discussed. Avocado is a developing fruit in Taiwan. Postharvest methods of avocado have been tested, including storage temperature, storage period, the effect of ethylene absorbent and the effect of ethylene inhibitor. By some of these methods, avocado can be maintained in good appearance and quality.