Elec21

Lecture notes covering post-harvest losses, handling, storage, processing, packaging, value addition, and enterprise policy as per ICAR 6th Deans' Committee 2024. Course Code: ELEC 21 | Credits: 4(3+1).

Types and causes of post-harvest losses and the main physiological processes responsible for deterioration after harvest.

Maturity indices and harvesting standards for major crops; post-harvest handling operations including sorting, grading, pre-cooling, curing, and packaging.

Cold chain concept and components; pre-cooling methods; cold storage types; controlled atmosphere and modified atmosphere storage principles and applications.

In-depth coverage of CA and MA storage: physiological basis, equipment, DCA, edible coatings, MAP films, and India's apple CA infrastructure.

Drying methods (sun, hot air, spray, freeze), canning, freezing, pickling, fermentation, and juice processing — principles, processes, and quality parameters.

Value addition concepts; fruit and vegetable products; cereal, pulse, and dairy value addition; agricultural waste utilization; nutraceuticals and functional foods.

Packaging types and materials; active and intelligent packaging; pack houses; cold storage and transport infrastructure; food processing parks and government schemes.

Food processing enterprise logic, regulatory requirements, government support schemes, value-chain finance, and post-harvest business opportunities.