Assessment of Post-Harvest Losses in Tomato Production in Benue State

Tomato is a highly perishable horticultural crop whose production in Benue State, Nigeria's North Central zone, is characterised by significant post-harvest losses that undermine farmer income and food system efficiency. Despite growing domestic demand, losses between the farm gate and the consumer have been estimated in several recent studies at 40 to 60 percent of output. This study assesses the extent, causes, and management of post-harvest losses among tomato farmers and traders in Benue State. Using a multi-stage sampling method, 130 farmers and 50 market traders were surveyed across three local government areas known for tomato production. Data were analysed descriptively and supplemented with key informant interviews. Results indicate that physical damage during transportation, inadequate storage infrastructure, and pest infestation are the three leading causes of losses, accounting for over 80 percent of total wastage. Losses were higher for farmers located more than 50 kilometres from processing or canning facilities. Farmers who used wooden crates for transportation recorded significantly lower damage rates than those using open-mesh bags. Very few respondents (11 percent) had access to cold storage or any form of post-harvest processing support. The study recommends investment in rural cold chain infrastructure, promotion of bamboo crates as low-cost packaging alternatives, and the establishment of tomato aggregation centres near major producing communities in Benue State. Keywords: post-harvest losses, tomato, Benue State, cold chain, storage infrastructure