The text discusses the crop of banana, including its origin and distribution, as well as the various varieties cultivated throughout the country and their characteristics. The trade of bananas, both domestically and internationally, is also explained, as well as the different ways the fruit is consumed in various parts of the world. The section exclusively focuses on the nutritive and therapeutic values of bananas, followed by an in-depth exploration of the post-harvest aspects of the fruit, covering the latest scientific developments in seven sections. The text concludes with information on the processing and value addition of bananas, including the utilization of waste and by-products. Overall, the text provides a comprehensive overview of the post-harvest aspects of bananas and plantains.

1. Introduction 2. Origin, Production and Distribution 3. Varieties and Their Characteristics 4. Trade International and Domestic 5. Consumption Pattern of Bananas and Plantains 6. Nutritive, Medicinal and Therapeutic Values 7. Post Harvest Losses and its Causes 8. Pre-Harvest Factors Affecting the Shelf / Storage Life and Quality 9. Post Harvest Factors Affecting The Shelf Life and Quality 10. Post Harvest Physiology, Shelf Life and Quality Changes 11. Improved Harvest, Postharvest Handling, Packaging and Transportation 12. Storage of Banana 13. Ripening and Retailing 14. Minimal Processing 15. Banana Processing and Processed Products 16. Utilization of Field Residues and Processing Wastes