Speakers - 2026

Title: Integrated post-harvest processing and value addition strategies for sustainable agri-food systems: A framework for loss reduction, nutritional enhancement, and circular bioeconomy development

Abstract

Post-harvest losses continue to pose a significant threat to global food security, particularly in developing economies where inadequate infrastructure, inefficient handling practices, and limited processing capacity contribute to substantial quantitative and qualitative deterioration of agricultural commodities. These losses reduce food availability, compromise nutritional quality, lower farmer income, and negatively affect overall sustainability of agri-food systems. This presentation explores post-harvest systems as an integrated continuum involving physiological, biochemical, and technological processes that determine the quality and shelf life of agricultural produce. Key deterioration mechanisms such as respiration rate, enzymatic activity, moisture migration, and microbial proliferation are examined in relation to environmental conditions and handling practices. Understanding these mechanisms provides the scientific basis for designing effective post-harvest interventions. The presentation further discusses advances in post-harvest technologies, including improved harvesting techniques, controlled atmosphere storage, refrigeration systems, and cold chain management. Emphasis is placed on emerging preservation technologies and predictive storage models that enhance shelf life while preserving nutritional and sensory quality. In addition, modern food processing and value addition strategies are highlighted as critical tools for transforming raw agricultural produce into safe, stable, and market-oriented products. Technologies such as fermentation, drying, minimal processing, and functional food development are explored as pathways for improving nutritional value and consumer acceptability. The utilization of agricultural by-products is also addressed within the context of circular bioeconomy principles, where waste streams are converted into value-added products such as animal feed, bioactive compounds, and functional ingredients. By integrating post-harvest physiology, food processing engineering, and sustainable value chain development, this presentation proposes a holistic framework for reducing food losses, enhancing nutritional outcomes, and improving agri-food system resilience. The approach supports food security, rural industrialization, and sustainable development goals through innovation-driven transformation of agricultural systems.

The audience take away from this presentation:

• A clear understanding of the biological and environmental mechanisms responsible for post-harvest food losses
• Practical knowledge of modern post-harvest technologies including storage, refrigeration, and cold chain systems
• Insight into food processing and value addition techniques that improve shelf life, nutrition, and market value
• Awareness of circular bioeconomy approaches for converting agricultural waste into useful products
• A systems-based framework that can be adapted for research, teaching, and industrial application in food and agricultural engineering