ARS | Publication request: Postharvest handling of grains and pulses

Submitted to: Book Chapter
Publication Type: Book / Chapter
Publication Acceptance Date: August 18, 2006
Publication Date: July 31, 2007
Citation: Mahapatra, A., Lan, Y. 2007. Postharvest handling of grains and pulses. In: Rhaman, M.S., editor. Handbook of Food Preservation. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press. p. 73-135.

Interpretive Summary: In order to prevent huge quantitative as well as qualitative losses of grains and pulses, improved postharvest technology must be carefully designed and implemented for harvesting, threshing, drying, storage, handling, and milling. Considerable research has been conducted in these areas for many years. Knowledge of the structure, composition, and physical and mechanical properties of cereal grains and legumes is being used in the planting, harvesting, drying, storing, milling, and processing of grains and pulses. This book chapter gives detail for the updated information in postharvest of grains and pulses. The information is useful for producers, processors, and consumers in developing new or modified equipment and techniques so that grains and pulses can be handled effectively.

Technical Abstract: The updated review information for the properties, grades, harvesting, threshing, drying, storage, handling, and milling of cereal grains and legumes is given in detail. The brief introduction of the structure and composition of the major cereal crops and legumes are described. To derive optimal benefit from production techniques, the engineering principles and practice of harvesting and threshing and their effects on grain yield have been outlined. Drying, storage, handling, and milling are important operations in postharvest handling of grains and pulses. Therefore, the theory, principles, methods, and commercial equipment are presented systematically.