Information Sources on Preservation of Fresh Vegetables in Kwara State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study assessed the sources of information on preservation of fresh vegetables among farmers in Ilorin, Kwara State. A total of 120 respondents were randomly selected. A questionnaire was developed to collect data. Data was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Findings indicated that respondents cultivate average of 2 hectares of vegetable farms. All (100%) of the respondents produced water leaf, African spinach, Saluyot leaf and African Basil. Drying (99.2%) and refrigeration (17.5%) of fresh vegetables were the main preservation methods adopted by respondents. Fellow farmers (mean=3.75), radio (mean=3.40) and farmers’ group (mean=1.86) were the leading sources of information for preserving fresh vegetables. Education, farming experience and household size of the respondents were significantly related (p<0.05) to the sources of information used by respondents. This study recommends that extension organizations aimed at improving farmers’ capacity on preservation of fresh vegetables should disseminate their information through farmers’ groups and radio program.