Harvesting and post-harvest handling have an enormous influence on the quality of medicinal and aromatic plants (MAPs) and thus also on their price and marketability. Knowledge of the issues and the implementation of the correct measures are a prerequisite for a successful high-quality production of MAPs. A new guide developed for Kosovo provides recommendations and guidelines for producers to obtain high quality products and minimise contaminations.
In the last few years, production of medicinal and aromatic plants has more than doubled in Kosovo. In 2021, nearly 1’000 farmers have cultivated MAPs and delivered their products to more than 30 collection points and primary processing companies. The developed supply chain has offered a new marketing opportunity to farmers and agriculture-related businesses in Kosovo.
However, many growers in Kosovo are lacking knowledge on proper post-harvest handling of medicinal and aromatic plants, and its influence on product quality. Harvesting and post-harvest handling including drying, preparation, sorting, packaging, storage, and transport have a great influence on the quality of MAPs. The new practical guide closes this gap and serves as a useful tool in trainings and for quality management.
The elaboration of the technical guide was financially supported by ADA (Austrian Development Agency), coordinated by CACH (Caritas Switzerland) and implemented by FiBL, Bioherb and IADK in the course of the SIRED project.
The guide is available in English, Albanian and Serb languages for free download at shop.fibl.org.