Factors Associated with Post-Harvest Losses and Quality Deterioration of Green Mussels (Perna viridis) in Bacoor, Cavite, Philippines

Abstract

Aim: This study analysed the factors associated with farmer-reported post-harvest losses and perceived quality deterioration among green mussel (Perna viridis) farmers in Bacoor, Cavite, Philippines. Study Design: A descriptive-correlational research design supplemented by key informant interviews was used. Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in selected coastal areas of Bacoor, Cavite, Philippines, during the first and second weeks of March 2026. Methodology: Data were gathered from 98 green mussel farmers using a structured questionnaire. Post-harvest losses were measured as farmer-reported kilogram losses before sale, while quality deterioration was assessed using farmers’ perceived and observable indicators. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, weighted means, multiple linear regression, regression diagnostics, and sensitivity analyses. Key informant interviews were used to contextualise the survey findings. Results: Respondents had a mean age of 47.27 years and a mean farming experience of 18.95 years; 84.70% had no formal training related to mussel farming or post-harvest handling. On a five-point practice scale, harvesting (weighted mean = 4.51), packaging (weighted mean = 4.31), cleaning (weighted mean = 4.30), and transportation (weighted mean = 4.25) were consistently practised, while icing was rarely adopted (weighted mean = 1.30). Total reported harvest was 101,241 kg, while reported losses were 5,679 kg, equivalent to 5.61%. The regression model was significant, F(20, 77) = 2.79, P < .001, with R² = .421 and adjusted R² = .270. Mussel farming area, sex, and training attendance were significantly associated with reported losses, although the results were interpreted cautiously because of scale sensitivity and small subgroup sizes. Diagnostic tests indicated no severe multicollinearity, acceptable residual normality, no evidence of heteroscedasticity, and no highly influential cases. Rough handling, shell breakage, and heavy rainfall were the leading perceived sources of quantity loss, while foul odour, high temperature, sun exposure, and slimy texture were the main perceived indicators or conditions related to quality deterioration. Conclusion: Farmer-reported post-harvest losses among green mussel farmers in Bacoor were modest in percentage terms but economically meaningful. Improving post-harvest outcomes requires practical training, careful shell handling, improved sorting, protective and ventilated containers, shaded temporary holding, and feasible cold-handling options.