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 Rev. Fr. Moses Orshio Adasu University, Makurdi

JOURNAL OF ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL RESEARCH (JESR), Vol. 12 No. 2 (2026)



Determinants and Extent of Postharvest Losses in Orange Production in Ushongo LGA, Benue State, Nigeria



Abstract

Postharvest losses remain a critical challenge in agricultural value chains across developing countries, particularly for perishable commodities such as citrus fruits. This study investigated the determinants and extent of postharvest losses among orange farmers in Ushongo Local Government Area (LGA) of Benue State, Nigeria. Primary data were collected from 57 orange farmers using structured questionnaires. Analytical tools included descriptive statistics, the Postharvest Loss Index (PHLI), and multiple regression analysis. Findings revealed that orange farmers in the study area experience significant postharvest losses, with an average PHLI of 23.4%, indicating that nearly one-quarter of harvested fruits are lost after harvest. Regression results identified storage methods (β = −0.635, p = 0.005), transport type (β = 0.462, p = 0.023), distance to market (β = 0.035, p = 0.023), market access (β = −0.498, p = 0.017), and farming experience (β = −0.084, p = 0.011) as significant predictors of postharvest loss. The study concludes that infrastructural deficiencies and poor handling practices are the major contributors to orange losses in Ushongo LGA. Policy recommendations include investment in rural infrastructure, provision of cold storage facilities, farmer training on best postharvest practices, and promotion of cooperative marketing to reduce losses and enhance farmer profitability.



Key words: Postharvest losses, Oranges, Extent, Determinants, PHLI, Benue State, Nigeria

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