Hermetic sealed storage IRRI super bag: Reduces post-harvest losses in seed grains

Abstract

Post-harvest losses occur due to poor storage system, which deteriorates seed quality. All traditional storage systems like jute bags, PVC/woven bags, clay pots, drums etc. are not really hermetic and can’t store seed or grain safely for longer time. It would be difficult to measure the loss due to physiological changes in seed at the farm level. An attempt was, therefore, made to control the insect-damage, maintain germination and proper moisture level in IRRI Super bags at farmer’s level. Visualising this, the on-farm study at BAU, KVK Sabour, Bhagalpur and ICAR, KVK Buxar was conducted during 2015-16. Lentil seeds used for research in KVKs were initially dried to moisture content ranging from 12.1 to 13.9% and cooled in shade before storage. There was merely 0-1% increase in moisture-content after storage in Super bags, whereas it increased by 1.6-2.0% in jute bags which attracted more insect-pest infestation and reduced germination. There was no or negligible count of dead or alive insect-pests infesting Super-bag stored seed, while noticeable count of dead and live insects was recorded into grains. Seed germination ability remained unaffected in Super bags, but it drastically deteriorated (8.5-10.9%) in jute-bag stored seed at different locations. Discolouration of seed stored in Super bag was also lesser as compared to that stored in jute bag. It implies that IRRI Super bags are suitable for lentil seed storage in room condition. Though the cost of Super bag is a bit higher than jute bag, but its benefits well-nigh compensate the cost.