AgroProcessing CHEC-WCG Project

Abstract

Food waste plays a pivotal role in the world hunger crisis, as roughly 1.3 billion tons (30% of produced food worldwide) of food are being wasted in the food chain every year. Waste products from agriculture (agro-processing) have the potential for reuse in secondary products as food additives, or additives if an efficient method of preservation is available and economically feasible. This project aims to preserve food, and simultaneously reduce waste by reusing agricultural by-products through dehydration and purification. The project will assess the suitability of different drying processes for preservation in terms of food quality and cost. Furthermore, a technoeconomic assessment of different commercial options for dehydration and preservation of food wastes and by-products will be conducted. A partnership with local farmers was established to assess the problem and find suitable solution. The partnership additionally assist is sharing of skill and experiences, and leveraging on each other’s expertise. The significance of the project is in contributing towards reaching sustainable development goals, specifically goal number 2 (end hunger, achieve food security and improved nutrition and promote sustainable agriculture) and goal number 12 (Ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns). Further, it is an integrated approach aimed to prevent pollution, preserve the ecosystem and protect public health. This has potential for significant socioeconomic and environmental impacts, and simultaneously benefits the agriculture and manufacturing industries ie. food.