Abstract

Post-harvest management practices have significant roles in the quality and marketability of cashew nuts. This study assessed cashew nut aggregators’ information needs on cashew nuts’ post-harvest management practices in Kwara State, Nigeria. A three-stage sampling procedure was used in selecting 130 respondents for the study. Data were obtained using structured questionnaire. Frequencies, percentages, means and regression analysis were used to analyse the data. The mean age of the respondents was 46.8 years, and they were predominantly male (85.4%) with an average of 13.7 years’ experience in cashew nut aggregation. The major post-harvest management activities of the nut aggregators were buying and selling of nuts (x? =1.80). The respondents had highest information needs in ‘determination and maintenance of kernel out-turn ratio of the nuts (x?=1.84). ‘Unfavourable climate and weather conditions’ was identified as a major challenge impeding post-harvest management practices (x? = 2.02). Aggregators’ years of formal education (? = 0.071) and years of experience (? = -0.108) had significant contribution to their information needs at 0.05 level of significance. The study concluded that cashew nut aggregators require more information on nut testing and quality assessment. It recommended that agricultural extension services be strengthened and specifically designed to deliver practical, up-to-date guidance on best practices in nut testing and quality assessment.

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