ABSTRACT
Roots and tubers, like any other vegetables, are subjected to several forms of postharvest spoilage in the tropical climates during transportation from farmers’ fields and in storage (Ray and Balagopalan, 1997; Afek and Kays, 2004). Spoilage is due to mechanical injury, weight loss, sprouting (Ray et al., 1994; Afek et al., 1999; Afek and Kays, 2002), and the impacts of pests and diseases (Ray et al., 1994; Ray et al., 2000; Ray and Byju, 2003). Climate and soil conditions before harvest, infection by microorganisms and infestation by insect pests in the field may initiate or further enhance postharvest deterioration (Ray et al., 1994; Ray and Punithalingam, 1996). These aspects have been discussed in a number of research papers and reviews (Clark, 1992; Afek and Kays, 2002; Ray and Ravi, 2005).
