(File photo)
MANILA – The Department of Science and Technology - Industrial Technology Development Institute (DOST-ITDI) will assist the Davao Food Terminal Complex (DFTC) in reducing food spoilage.
"DFTC is only a farmer's trading and storage post. We will help them apply technologies, such as active packaging, modified atmosphere packaging, post harvest systems, and transport packaging," Director Anabelle Briones told the Philippine News Agency on Monday.
These technologies, she said, will add value and reduce spoilage of various commodities such as mango, pomelo, durian, mangosteen, broccoli and lettuce.
DOST Secretary Fortunato de la Peña earlier said the ITDI recently signed an agreement with DOST-Region 11 (Davao) and the DFTC for this project on upgrading the capability of existing distribution centers or trading posts in the delivery of fresh and semi-processed agricultural products.
This project focuses on packaging technology and logistics, and aims to reduce product damage and spoilage by at least 20 percent of the reported losses.
"The project is under the DOST's Smart Food Value Chain in the New Normal program, and is being implemented by the ITDI in partnership with various stakeholders in the regions," he said. (PNA)
