Nigerian onion sector introduces new bags to reduce post-harvest losses

Nigeria produces around 1.4 million tonnes of onions, but post-harvest losses are high. To reduce these losses, NOPPMAN, the National Association of Onion Producers, Processors and Traders of Nigeria, has introduced new onion storage bags for its members.

 

The new bags, which replace the conventional nylon and jute bags, will improve the preservation of the onions, their shelf life and their quality during storage. Onion production in Nigeria is about 1.4 million tonnes, but losses are estimated at 50-60% of this volume due to packaging in plastic bags.

 

The new bags are expected to reduce losses by 30-40%, according to Aliyu Maitasamu, president of NOPPMAN.

 

The new bags are designed to hold 50 kg of onions, unlike the old ones, which did not have a fixed weight (59 kg or 80 kg). Additionally, the use of the new bags will also promote uniformity in packaging of onions throughout the country and may facilitate exports.

 

Nigeria is the second largest producer in Africa, behind Egypt, and produces about 1.4 million tonnes of onions. Domestic market demand is estimated at 2.5 million tonnes of onions per year and the country is capable of producing 2.5 million tonnes of onions per year if the industry is helped and sustained, according to recent statements by Mustapha Kadri. , President of the Regional Onion Observatory for West and Central Africa.

 

 

 

Source: nannews.ng, sunnewsonline.com, suprememagazine.news