Traditional threshing of kidney beans, using horses, in the highlands. - - Prevention of Food Losses and Primary Marketing: GCP/ECU/060/NET. The main objective of this project, executed by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations is to identify the steps of the post production process of grains and potatoes where substantial losses occur due to pests, improper storage and handling practices, and to propose, test and promote the use of alternatives commensurate with social and economic constraints in the country. To reach this objective, the project is testing and introducing, in pilot areas, a portable "VOTEX" rice thresher, a modified maize crib, small metal bins for maize, rice and kidney beans and simple seed potato storage. The use of a modified IRRI rice dryer and rice husk burner will also be implemented.
These actions are complemented with training to technicians, extension workers and farmers, and members of NGO's directly involved with food handling. The four-year project is financed through a trust fund of the Government of the Netherlands for US$1.692.063.