Assessment of Postharvest Handling Practices for Plantain (Musa paradisiaca) in Edo State Markets

Plantain (Musa paradisiaca) is one of Nigeria's most consumed starchy staple crops, and its marketing is a major income source for smallholder farmers and traders across the South South geopolitical zone. Improper post-harvest handling practices in Edo State markets lead to significant physical and quality losses that reduce farmer income and increase consumer prices. This study assesses the post-harvest handling practices for plantain at three major markets in Benin City, Edo State, using structured interviews administered to 90 traders and direct market observation checklists. Key practices evaluated include bunch handling, packaging, transportation, ripening management, and storage methods. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results indicate that most traders handle plantain bunches manually without protective packaging, resulting in significant bruising and accelerated ripening. Approximately 72 percent of traders reported using informal ripening chambers without temperature control. Only a small proportion used ethylene-free storage methods. The study concludes that post-harvest handling practices in Edo State markets fall below recommended standards, contributing to avoidable losses estimated at 25-35 percent of total produce. Recommendations include training programs on improved plantain handling, investment in low-cost ripening chambers, and introduction of cushioned packaging materials among the trader community. Keywords: plantain, Musa paradisiaca, post-harvest handling, Edo State, market