Fuente: PubMed "Tomato process" Plant Environ Interact. 2026 Jun 10;7(3):e70161. doi: 10.1002/pei3.70161. eCollection 2026 Jun.ABSTRACTIncreased weather challenges propelled by climate change are projected to significantly impact postharvest operations, threatening the livelihoods of most small-scale farmers in several parts of Africa. While research on the effects of climate variability on food production exists, less attention has been given to the impacts of climate change on postharvest management of vegetable crops, especially tomatoes widely produced and consumed on the continent. This study examined the effects of climate variability on the postharvest losses of tomatoes and its implications on the livelihoods of small-scale tomato farmers in the Kilolo district, southeast Tanzania. Using semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions, and field observations, data were obtained from 52 (n = 52) tomato farmers. Results indicate that unpredictable rains, poor storage conditions, transportation delays, and weather-related pick-up delays were major causes of postharvest tomato losses, with farmers reporting losses of up to 40% linked to a lack of storage facilities. Findings also reveal that preharvest tomato losses linked to pest outbreaks were common but not significant compared to postharvest losses caused by poor storage conditions. The study calls for investment in both postharvest crop management training and extension services, and the deployment of low-cost postharvest infrastructure, especially cold storage and tomato processing facilities, to reduce losses of unsold tomatoes amid weather challenges.PMID:42281747 | PMC:PMC13250695 | DOI:10.1002/pei3.70161