LOSSES OF SELECTED FRUITS AND VEGETABLES AT CONSUMERS’ LEVEL

Abstract

The study was conducted to assess the losses of selected fruits (Mango, Jackfruit and Papaya) and vegetables (Tomato, Brinjal, Cabbage and Cucumber) at consumers’ level; and to explore the association and relationship between income of the consumers and their losses of selected fruits and vegetables. Data were collected from 384 consumers of 10 locations of Dhaka city with the help of a pre-tested interview schedule during the period from July to December, 2012. Findings revealed that the average losses of the selected seven fruits and vegetables of the consumers was 6.95%. Among 3 selected fruits, the losses were 8.69%, 7.59% and 7.08% for mango, jackfruit and papaya respectively, while among four selected vegetables losses were 7.51%, 9.94%, 4.18%, 3.64% for tomato, brinjal, cabbage and cucumber respectively. Chi-square test revealed that average losses of consumers of these selected seven crops had significant association with their income. Out of seven crops, losses of six crops (mango, jackfruit, papaya, tomato, brinjal and cabbage) of the consumers individually had significant association with their income. Spearman rank correlation test revealed that average losses of consumers of these selected seven crops had significant negative relationship with their income. Out of seven crops, losses of six crops (mango, jackfruit, tomato, brinjal, cabbage and cucumber) of the consumers individually had significant negative relationship with their income.