Comparative Study of Producer’s Post-Harvest Practices and Quality of Cashew Nuts (Anacardium occidentale L.) Produced in Five Localities of Sub-prefecture of Katogo, Far North of Côte d'Ivoire

Abstract

Post-harvest practices of cashew nuts by producers are essential for improving the quality of cashew nuts. This study was carried out to contribute to improving the quality of cashew nuts produced in 5 localities in the Katogo sub-prefecture. Socilogical survey and post-harvest practices were carried out among producers in Sologneugo, Kaniéné, Koliani, Nidienkaha and Tiorotieri in order to evaluate these practices on the quality of cashew nuts. Quality parameters of the cashew nuts produced were determined according to the quality criteria defined by the Ivorian standard. Study revealed non-compliance with certain CCA (cotton council cashew) instructions. In the 5 localities, 44% of producers stored nuts in homes compared to 56% in stores. In addition, 30% of floor storage was achieved compared to 52% on boards and 18% on bricks. Drying carried out for 3 days was carried out by 55% of producers while those who carried out beyond 3 days represented 45%. Determination of the quality parameters of the 5 localities revealed values varying from 7 to 8.55%; 65 to 143 nuts/Kg; 3 to 61% and 48.40 to 49.80 Ib respectively for humidity, graining, defect rate and KOR. Non-compliance with the application of post-harvest operations has negatively impacted the quality of cashew nuts produced in the 5 localities. Producers in these localities must be made aware of respecting post-harvest operations in order to improve their income.