Unveiling Losses of Tomato in Retail
Markets: Some Findings from the Kandy
District of Sri Lanka

Like most other fruits, Tomatoes are best when ripened on the plant. However, it is not a luxury that trading systems can afford. To enable trade, fruits are often picked a little earlier, leaving the final stage of readiness to occur during transit. The challenge, at most times, is to get them to consumers as fresh as it could be. Because fresh produce is more delectable, delicate and in high demand, working towards to minimise their losses— both in terms of notorious, inferior tactics and market value—is becoming an important public policy problem. The one that matters for growers, traders and the consuming public.Like most other fruits, Tomatoes are best when ripened on the plant. However, it is not a luxury that trading systems can afford. To enable trade, fruits are often picked a little earlier, leaving the final stage of readiness to occur during transit. The challenge, at most times, is to get them to consumers as fresh as it could be. Because fresh produce is more delectable, delicate and in high demand, working towards to minimise their losses— both in terms of notorious, inferior tactics and market value—is becoming an important public policy problem. The one that matters for growers, traders and the consuming public.