Production Practices and Quality Assessment of Food Crops : Springer : 9781402017018 : 1402017014 : 31 Jan 2004 : We can not talk about commodity production without building up all the operations after harvest. It is possible to market the products just after harvest, but it is only possible in small quantities. Postharvest handling is the ultimate stage in the process of producing quality fresh fruits and vegetables, getting these unique packages of water (fresh commodities) to the supper table. Fresh fruits and vegetables are succeptible to a number of postharvest disease and disorders and the postharvest operations are predominately aimed at maintaining harvest quality. Every step in the handling chain can influence the extent of disease and quality of the stored product. From planting to consumption, there are many opportu- ties for bacteria, viruses, and parasites to contaminate produce or nutrient deficiency level causing physiological disorders. Most of the storage rots are dise