Post-harvest loss management of sugarcane involves minimizing losses in quality and quantity from the time of harvest until the cane is milled. This is important for farmers and sugar millers because it affects sugar recovery and profitability. Causes of post-harvest loss
Microorganisms: These can cause the cane to sour and produce organic acids and dextrans.
Time: The longer the time between harvest and milling, the greater the loss.
Temperature: High temperatures can contribute to deterioration.
Humidity: This can contribute to losses.
Cane variety: Different varieties of cane can have different susceptibility to loss.
Cane maturity: The maturity of the cane at harvest can affect the rate of loss.
Ways to manage post-harvest loss
Use chemicals: A combination of benzalkonium chloride and sodium metasilicate can help inhibit deterioration.
Manage time: Try to crush the cane within 24 hours of harvest.
Use biocidal compounds: These can help minimize quality losses.
Use eco-friendly compounds: These can help minimize quality losses.
Manage temperature and humidity: These factors can affect the rate of loss.
Manage cane variety and maturity: Different varieties and maturities can have different susceptibility to loss.