Post-harvest profile of red gram - Agmarknet

☛Distances should be considered.3.6 Storage:The storage is an important aspect of post harvest technology because Red gram isseasonally produced but consumed throughout the year. Therefore, the supply of Red gramhas to be maintained by proper storage throughout the year. Storage protects the quality ofgrains from deterioration and helps in stabilization of prices by regularising demand andsupply. In our country, the storage losses caused by insects, rodents and microorganisms aremaximum. Lack of storage facilities force the farmers to sell their produce at low priceimmediately after harvest. It is essential that during storage, Red gram should remain in goodcondition and not undergo any deterioration due to fungal and insect infection or attack byrodents.Requirements for safe storage:The following requirements should be fulfilled for safe storage of Red gram:‣ Selection of site (location):The storage structure should be located on a raised well-drained place. It should be easilyaccessible. The storage structure should be protected from humidity, excessive heat, directsun rays, insects and rodents. Storage godown should be constructed on a well-builtplatform at a height of not less than 1 foot above ground level to prevent dampness.‣ Selection of storage structure:The storage structure should be selected according to the quantity of Red gram to be stored.‣ Cleaning of storage structures:The storage structures should be properly cleaned before storing Red gram. There shouldbe no left over grains, cracks, holes and crevices in the structure, which may harbourinsects. Before storage, the storage structure should be fumigated.‣ Cleaning and drying of Red gram:Before storage, the Red gram should be properly cleaned and dried. Grains should be freefrom foreign matter and excessive moisture to avoid quality deterioration and pest attack.‣ Cleaning of bags:As far as possible, new gunny bags should be used. The old gunny bags should be properlycleaned, dried and fumigated before use.‣ Separate storage of new and old stock:To check infestation and to maintain hygienic condition of godown, the new and old stocksshould be stored separately.‣ Cleaning of vehicles:The vehicles used for transporting Red gram should be properly cleaned with phenyl.Use of dunnage:Dunnage should be used before stacking‣bags to avoid absorption of moisture from floor.Bags should be kept on wooden crates or bamboo mats along with a cover of polythenesheet, preferably.‣ Proper aeration:There should be proper aeration during clear weather condition but care should be taken toavoid aeration during rainy season.‣ Regular inspection:22