The ability of machine learning techniques to make accurate predications is increasing. The aim of this work is to apply machine learning techniques such as Support Vector Machine, Naïve Bayes, Decision Tree, Logistic Regression, and K-Nearest Neighbour algorithms to predict the shelf life of Okra. Predicting the shelf life of Okra is important because Okra becomes harmful for human consumption if consumed after its shelf life. Okra parameters such as weight loss, firmness, Titrable Acid, Total Soluble Solids, Vitamin C/Ascorbic acid content, and PH were used as inputs into these machine learning techniques. Support Vector Machine, Naïve Bayes and Decision Tree each accurately predicted the shelf life of Okra with accuracies of 100%. However, the Logistic Regression and K-Nearest Neighbour achieved 88.89% and 88.33% accuracies, respectively. These results showed that machine learning techniques especially Support Vector Machine, Naïve Bayes and Decision Tree can be effectively applied for the prediction of Okra shelf life.

The effect of postharvest application of plant leaf powders on the physical quality and shelf life of okra fruits during Storage in Makurdi was determined. Moringa and Neem leaf powders were used to coat the okra fruits, which were then kept at room temperature. The experiment was a 2 x 3 factorial combination of treatments, fitted in a completely randomized design, and replicated thrice. Data collected were subjected to Analysis of variance (ANOVA) using GENSTAT statistical package, and Fisher’s Least Significant Difference (F-LSD) at a 5% level of probability to separate the means. Results revealed that plant leaf powders of Azadirachta indica (Neem) and Moringa oleifera have the ability to enhance the shelf life and maintain the physicochemical quality of okra fruits under storage. These powders also have the potential to be antifungal. Among the okra varieties studied, Clemson spineless gave better physical quality as compared to stubby okra thus the shelf life during storage. Treated okra shelf life extended to day 15 whereas the untreated fruits ranged from 1 - 7 days. These botanicals offer alternatives for maintaining crop management and postharvest physiology in addition to being safe for consumers, inexpensive, easy to create, and easy to apply formulations. It is therefore recommended the use of plant leaf powders particularly M. oleifera for the storage of okra fruits in Makurdi.