Characteristics of Postproduction Losses of Rice in Java

"This study was conducted to characterize the magnitude of major quantitative losses of rice in Javanese postproduction processes that were caused by increased production with high-yielding varieties (HYVs). Harvest loss by the sickleas less than that by the traditional rice knife (the ani-ani). Scattering generated threshing loss; its magnitude depended upon the method used and the conditions around the site. Drying loss of paddy was negligible at farms, but significant in the drying yards of the private sector. Farm storage loss of paddy depended on the period of storage and the container used. The main component of transportation loss was spilled grain, which was caused by incomplete packing or by handling gunny sacks with hooks. Higher milling loss occurred when Engelberg-type hullers were used alone without rubber roll-type huskers. Losses of paddy and white rice were moderate in commercial storage.