Principles of various handling and storage techniques for cutflowers and their application in the handling and marketing system

Awareness of the basic aspects of postharvest handling techniques to maintain good quality and minimize product deterioration during distribution up to retail

Theoretical and practical aspects of handling fresh fruits, vegetables and cutflowers after harvest, including methods of determining harvest maturity, packing house operations, grading and standardization, temperature management and storage techniques, ripening regulation, packaging and transport, food safety and quality assurance, postharvest disease control and minimal processing of fresh cuts; includes hands-on technology demonstration

Basic principles of design, layout and location of a packinghouse facility for fresh fruits, vegetables and cutflowers. Introduction to packinghouse operations and equipment e.g. sizer/sorter, washing tanks, drying racks, etc; includes design exercise for a basic packinghouse, hence, participants are encouraged to work on a design problem related to their commodity.

Principles and techniques underlying the preservation of the various plant parts, focusing on the drying methods, handling and storage, and the creative uses of preserved plant parts. Participants will also be involved in the craft making of preserved plant parts for better appreciation and for possible livelihood or business opportunities

Theoretical bases of postharvest handling technologies and their practical application to specific commodity and location, in order to minimize losses and maintain and ensure quality and safety of fresh produce

Enhancing participants’ technical capability and develop their skills on postharvest horticulture management focusing on meeting the requirements for quality and safety of fresh produce on the supply chain

Developing and/or enhancing knowledge and skills of participants in conducting postharvest research from conceptualization to implementation. Includes protocol preparation, experimental design, data monitoring, methods of analysis and hands-on exercises

Unstructured program tailored to the needs of participants(s) who may choose a particular postharvest discipline, subject problem area or commodity of interest. Includes conduct of laboratory experiment, handling trials, data analysis and report writing

Field visits to horticultural farms packinghouses and wholesale and retail markets with commercial operations, and catering to local and exports markets. Can be done in 2 countries in ASEAN region including the Philippines