Crops must be harvested at a certain stage of readiness to ensure that the consumer will be willing to pay for them - NSC Agricultural Management Practices - Question 4 - 2016 - Paper 1
Question 4
Crops must be harvested at a certain stage of readiness to ensure that the consumer will be willing to pay for them.
4.1.1 Why is it important that crops should be ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Crops must be harvested at a certain stage of readiness to ensure that the consumer will be willing to pay for them - NSC Agricultural Management Practices - Question 4 - 2016 - Paper 1
Step 1
4.1.1 Why is it important that crops should be harvested at the correct stage?
96%
114 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
Harvesting crops at the correct stage is crucial because it ensures that the products are at their peak quality, which is vital for consumer satisfaction. Crops harvested too early may lack flavor, texture, and nutritional value, leading to decreased consumer demand. Conversely, harvesting too late can result in over-ripening, spoilage, or undesirable texture, which can also deter consumers.
Step 2
4.1.2 Name FOUR aspects that a producer should take into consideration to ensure that fresh agricultural products of high quality reach consumers in the best possible condition.
99%
104 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
Maturity Stage: Ensuring crops are harvested at the right maturity stage for optimal taste and quality.
Storage Conditions: Proper techniques and conditions for storing crops to prevent spoilage.
Transportation Methods: Utilizing appropriate transportation methods to maintain product freshness and prevent damage.
Timing of Harvest: Harvesting at the best time to ensure the shortest time from farm to consumer, thus maintaining quality.
Step 3
4.2.1 Sea
96%
101 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
Transporting agricultural products by sea is often chosen for bulk shipments, as it allows for the transportation of large quantities at a lower cost. It is suitable for international trade, reducing the per-unit transport cost significantly.
Step 4
4.2.2 Rail
98%
120 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
Rail transport is efficient for moving larger quantities of agricultural products inland. It is usually faster than sea transport and beneficial for bulk goods when road transport is not feasible.
Step 5
4.2.3 Air
97%
117 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
Air transport is utilized for high-value or perishable products that require quick delivery to maintain freshness, such as fruits and flowers. This method significantly reduces travel time.
Step 6
4.2.4 Road
97%
121 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
Road transport is flexible and allows for door-to-door delivery of agricultural products. It is effective for short distances and provides the ability to reach areas that may not be accessible via other transport methods.
Step 7
4.3 Name FOUR processing methods that farmers use to preserve agricultural products.
96%
114 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
Canning: Sealing food in cans to prevent spoilage and extend shelf life.
Freezing: Storing food at low temperatures to halt bacterial growth and preserve nutrients.
Drying: Removing moisture from products to inhibit microbial growth and decay.
Fermentation: Employing microorganisms to convert sugars into acids, gases, or alcohol for preservation.