With the advent of the new normal, innovations in food production have become an integral part of the food industry to attain food resiliency and ensure food security. These innovations have become the priority areas of the research and development (R&D) agenda, particularly in the fields of industry, energy, and emerging technologies in the region.
In response, the Department of Science and Technology Region X (DOST-X) recently funded a research proposal from the Central Mindanao University entitled “Spray Drying of Fruit Vegetable Juice Blends from Abundant and Underutilized Food Crops in Bukidnon” which amounts to more than Php 2.9 million.
The assistance with boost the capability of the Food Research and Development Center of the Central Mindanao University that recently developed nutritious juices from the abundant and underutilized fruits and vegetables in Bukidnon.
Prior to the implementation of the project, the center cannot store the juices for a long period of time on the shelves due to limited expiry dates. Because of this, the center will eventually incur a large amount of waste from plastic bottle containers.
The funded research will now be able to solve further wastage by utilizing the spray drying technology to convert fresh produce into spray-dried fruits and vegetable juice blend powders. Compared with the liquid juice, the juice blend powders have a longer shelf life and higher stability and efficiency in storage, handling, and transportation processes.
With its full implementation, the research is expected to (1) provide functional emergency foods, (2) respond to the research agenda on management and utilization of fruits and vegetables through a scientific research approach, (3) provide promising livelihood programs to uplift communities in Bukidnon, (4) provide technology adaptation of local farmers and SMEs, and (5) give additional information and references on spray dried food products in the country.
For more information on the technology and other services of DOST-X, interested parties may contact Julie Anne H. Baculio, Science Research Specialist I at stpromotions@region10.dost.gov.ph or mobile number 0917-709-3706. (Delwin Balanay, Jr., DOST-X)
