Downloads: 1 | Views: 50 | Weekly Hits: ⮙1 | Monthly Hits: ⮙1
Review Papers | Food Technology | Ivory Coast | Volume 12 Issue 6, June 2023
Diversity of Maize Seed Storage and Conservation Systems in Ivory Coast and the West African Subregion: Review of the Synthesis
Prudence Kahndo DEFFAN | Louis Ban KOFFI | Benedicte Ange Zranseu DEFFAN
Abstract: The rapid growth of the African population makes food self-sufficiency a major issue in agricultural policies. In order to have food available throughout the year, traditional and improved storage methods to extend the shelf life of products have been developed. These methods differ little from one country to another. The objective of this study is to synthesize the storage and preservation structures for maize seed used in West Africa. In short, three maize storage systems are used, depending on climatic conditions, population structures and their socio-cultural heritage, and the nature and quality of available materials. These include: open storage systems (used in humid areas of the country, for seeds with a high moisture content (greater than or equal to 14%) in order to complete the drying process), closed storage structures (used in dry areas of the country) and semi-open storage systems (widespread in the semi-arid regions of Africa). The conservation techniques used are firstly drying (in the field, on a rack, on the ground, and above the hearths), then the use of endogenous products (wood ash, petroleum, diesel oil, neem extract and others) and the use of chemical pesticides. As for the alteration of the quality and quantity of stored maize, it is linked to biochemical (chemical reactions within the grain) and biological (insects and other microorganisms) factors that cause serious losses at a time when the production system can hardly compensate for them. In conclusion, in order to store and preserve corn properly, it is more than necessary to follow good storage and preservation practices. These include good maize harvesting practices, good maize storage practices, stock monitoring and maintenance of storage facilities.
Keywords: Maize, Seeds, Storage, Conservation, Diversity, Methods, Techniques, West Africa
Edition: Volume 12 Issue 6, June 2023,
Pages: 703 - 709