Infrared Thermal Imaging: A Practical Educational Tool to Improve Smallholder Farmer Postharvest Practice in Fiji |
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| Authors: | Steven J R Underhill Salesh Kumar |
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| Institution: | 1. Faculty of Science, Health, Education and Engineering, University of the Sunshine Coast, Maroochydore DC, Queensland, Australia;2. College of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Fiji National University, Koronivia, Fiji Islands |
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| Abstract: | Here we discuss the novel application of handheld infrared thermal imagery as a learning tool to help smallholder farmers improve postharvest temperature management. Farmers in the Fiji Islands were trained in using a handheld thermal camera to view a series of on-farm demonstrations highlighting the consequence of poor postharvest practice. We observed that smallholder farmers accurately interpreted thermal imagery and the implication of poor practices. Our results showed thermal imagery has the potential to better communicate fundamental concepts of postharvest management. The availability of a range of iPhone, iPad, and Android platforms also means this technology can be widely accessible. |
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| Keywords: | smallholder farmers postharvest food loss temperature management infrared thermal imagery agricultural training education tool |
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