Review on Pre and Post-Harvest Management on Quality Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) Production

Abstract

Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) is one of the vegetables with the highest production in the world and its production is increasing all over the world. Tomatoes contribute to a healthy, well-balanced diet. Temperature affects plant growth balance, flower development and pollination, fruit growth and development, thus has substantial influence on fruit quality. Solar radiation and temperature have a large influence on fruit sugar accumulation. The best quality and long life storage for tomato product the research is required through incorporation of pre-harvesting as well as post-harvesting practices taking other factors under consideration in the specific locations. Day and night temperature and the variation between the two has pronounced effect on growth, flowering, fruiting and yield of fruits and seeds in Tomato, but the night temperature is a critical factor for fruit set in Tomato. There are many key points to be considered in assessing the quality of Tomatoes.  Tomatoes for distant markets can be picked at the “mature-green” or “breaker” stages whereas tomatoes for near outlets can be picked at the “breaker”, “turning”, “pink “or “light-red” stages. The cluster or vine-ripe tomatoes are harvested at the “light-red” to the “table-red” stage. The quality of tomato cultural practices on post-harvest quality should incorporate all practices on integrated and manageable time and place.

Keywords: Pre and post-harvest management Quality, Tomato