Post-Harvest Losses in Fish Supply Chains in Nigeria and Other Developing Countries: A Review of Causes, Quantification, and Emerging Technologies for Loss Reduction

Abstract

Fish post-harvest losses (FPHLs) are a major constraint to food security, livelihoods and sustainable fisheries, particularly in developing countries. This review synthesizes evidence on the magnitude, causes, assessment methods, mitigation strategies and emerging technologies associated with FPHLs, with emphasis on Nigeria and comparable low- and middle-income countries. A structured literature search covering 2005-2026 was conducted in Scopus, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar, Crossref, PubMed and authoritative FAO and World Bank sources. 215 records were identified, 174 screened and 43 met the inclusion criteria. Evidence was extracted on loss magnitude and types, causal factors, assessment methods, preservation technologies, digital innovations, policy and institutional context, and was synthesized thematically. The evidence indicates that losses occur throughout fish value chains through biological deterioration, poor handling, inadequate preservation, weak cold-chain infrastructure, transportation constraints and socioeconomic factors. Nigerian evidence remains geographically fragmented and methodologically heterogeneous, limiting reliable national estimates of physical, quality and economic losses. Traditional smoking and drying remain important, while improved kilns, solar drying, cold-chain systems and digital technologies provide opportunities for reduction. The review distinguish from previous work by explicitly linking Nigerian evidence with an integrated IFLAM, LT and QLAM assessment framework and technology-enabled monitoring, while examining policy, institutional and implementation gaps. Priority actions include standardized national loss assessments, affordable preservation technologies, stronger cold chains, improved data systems and context-specific policy implementation.