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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?
Answer
It is crucial for crops to be harvested at the correct stage to ensure they possess optimal quality, flavor, and nutritional value. Harvesting at the appropriate time helps in maintaining the texture, color, and taste, which directly influence consumer satisfaction and willingness to pay. Additionally, timely harvesting prevents over-ripening or spoilage, which can lead to financial losses for producers.
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.
Answer
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Harvesting Timing: Producers need to monitor the maturity stage of crops to harvest at their peak quality.
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Storage Conditions: Proper temperature and humidity control are essential to preserve freshness during storage.
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Transportation Methods: Selecting the right transport method to minimize damage and maintain temperature can significantly impact product quality.
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Packaging: Utilizing suitable packaging materials prevents spoilage and protects products from physical damage alike during transit.