Vol. 8, Issue 8, Part A (2024)

Abstract: This study examines the utilization patterns of cold storage units among farmers in Coimbatore district, Tamil Nadu, focusing on their impact on reducing postharvest losses, stabilizing prices, and enhancing market opportunities. Data collected from 125 farmers across seven cold storage units and different parameters ranging from source of enrolment to market access and linkage between buyers were analyzed using utilization index. The overall utilization of cold storage units among farmers were medium and indicating a need for more information on effective cold storage usage to enhance utilization. Furthermore, cold storage supports value-added processes such as grading, sorting, and packaging, which enhance the marketability and nutritional quality of the produce and eventually contributes to better food availability and accessibility for the population.