In Nigeria, where agriculture plays a pivotal role in the economy, food waste is a growing challenge. A staggering 40-50% of fresh produce, including tomatoes, is lost annually due to inadequate processing and poor post-harvest management.
For a country blessed with fertile land and a rich farming heritage, this represents not only a waste of food but also lost income for farmers and reduced food security for millions of Nigerians.
The Problem: Post-Harvest Waste in Nigeria
Tomatoes are one of the most widely grown crops in Nigeria, with smallholder farmers producing over 2 million tonnes annually.
Despite this abundance, a large percentage of these tomatoes rot before they ever reach the market due to the lack of adequate storage facilities, transportation, and processing options.
This has a significant impact on both food supply and farmer livelihoods, with smallholder farmers in rural areas often bearing the brunt of the losses.
A Solution: Tomato Processing and Preservation
One effective solution to this issue is processing fresh tomatoes into tomato paste. By converting fresh produce into a longer-lasting form, processing reduces post-harvest losses while making nutritious food more accessible year-round.
At Tomato Jos, we are proud to be part of the solution. Our multi-million dollar tomato paste processing plant in Kaduna is designed to turn locally grown tomatoes into high-quality paste, preserving the rich flavour and nutritional value of freshly harvested tomatoes.
Not only does this reduce waste, but it also helps ensure that Nigerian families have access to premium ingredients to make their favourite meals, from Jollof Rice to Red Stew.
Tomato Jos: A Commitment to Reducing Food Waste
By partnering with smallholder farmers, we work hand in hand to improve farming techniques, reduce post-harvest losses, and provide a stable market for their produce.
Since launching our processing plant, we’ve seen a 25% reduction in post-harvest losses in the areas where we operate. This means that more of the tomatoes our farmers grow make it to market as Tomato Jos paste, contributing to both food security and farmer livelihoods.
Why Tomato Jos Paste Is Your Kitchen’s Best Friend
Our paste is made from tomatoes that are handpicked at the peak of ripeness, ensuring a rich, sweet flavour.
When you choose Tomato Jos Paste, you’re not only adding great taste to your dishes, but you’re also supporting local farmers and helping to reduce food waste in Nigeria.
Together, We Can Make a Difference
Reducing post-harvest waste is crucial for Nigeria’s food system, and tomato processing is a key part of the solution. We remain committed to supporting local farmers, reducing waste, and delivering fresh, high-quality products to Nigerian homes.
When you choose Tomato Jos, you’re helping to build a more sustainable future, one paste at a time.
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Sources:
1. Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO)
2. Nigeria National Bureau of Statistics (NBS)
