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Foreword

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This Bulletin reviews the limited amount of information that has been recorded relating to the post-harvest technologies of the perishable (non-grain) staple foods that have been developed in the traditional societies of the developing countries of the tropics. These foods are derived primarily from the tropical root crops; cassava, yam, sweet potato and the various aroids; from fruit such as banana and breadfruit; and from the starch reserves laid down by various monocarpic plants (mainly palms such as sago).

The production of this document was originally conceived in a series of informal discussions, initially between Dr. Nay Htun of the United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP) and one of the present authors (Dr. D.G. Coursey), and gained further justification from one of the conclusions reached at the FAO/UNEP Expert Consultation on "Post-Harvest Losses in Perishable Foods of Plant Origin" (Rome, 1980), which stated:

"Traditional effective methods for preventing and reducing post-harvest losses need to be identified and exploited; this includes maintenance of continuous supply, storage for restricted periods, and transformation to durable products. Some valuable traditional technologies for food preservation are in danger of becoming lost because they are being superseded by more sophisticated methods of doubtful! long-term value. Modern and technology intensive methods should be applied appropriately according to prevailing conditions including cultural factors. Efficient and proper management of such technologies is as important as the types of equipment and facilities selected".

The present publication is a joint effort by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), the Tropical Development and Research Institute (TDRI) and FAO. It is hoped that this document will be of value in indicating the importance of the subject, so acting as a stimulant for further studies and application of traditional technologies.

Correspondence concerning this publication should be directed to:

Chief
Food and Agricultural Industries Service
Agricultural Services Division
FAO Headquarters
Via delle Terme di Caracalla
00100 Rome, Italy


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