#cassava and global food security. | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

shrutijadhav2139 · 3 months ago

Text

Organic Starch Market Insights and Analysis: Dynamics, Challenges, and Strategic Outlook

The organic starch market has witnessed significant growth in recent years, driven by the rising demand for natural and sustainable ingredients across various industries. Organic starch, derived from sources such as corn, potato, cassava, and rice, is free from synthetic fertilizers and genetically modified organisms (GMOs), making it an attractive option for health-conscious consumers and environmentally driven industries. This article explores the dynamics, challenges, and future outlook of the organic starch market.

Market Dynamics

The increasing adoption of clean-label products in the food and beverage sector has been a primary driver of growth for the organic starch market. Consumers are seeking transparency in product formulations, preferring organic ingredients for their perceived health benefits and sustainability credentials. Organic starch plays a critical role in thickening, stabilizing, and texturizing food products such as sauces, soups, bakery items, and desserts.

In addition to food applications, organic starch is gaining traction in the pharmaceutical, textile, and paper industries. In pharmaceuticals, it is used as a binding agent in tablets, while in textiles and paper, it serves as an eco-friendly adhesive and coating material. The demand for biodegradable and sustainable packaging solutions has further propelled the use of organic starch in producing bio-plastics, aligning with global sustainability goals.

Key Challenges

Despite its promising growth trajectory, the organic starch market faces several challenges. The high cost of organic raw materials compared to conventional starch sources is a significant barrier to market expansion. Organic farming methods are labor-intensive and yield smaller quantities, driving up production costs.

Another challenge lies in the limited availability of certified organic farmland. Meeting the rising demand for organic products while maintaining rigorous certification standards is a complex task. Additionally, the organic starch supply chain is vulnerable to climatic changes, which can affect crop yields and quality.

Regulatory complexities also pose a hurdle. Different regions have varying organic certification standards, making it difficult for producers to navigate international markets. For example, standards set by the USDA Organic program may differ from those of the European Union, complicating export opportunities for manufacturers.

Strategic Outlook

To address these challenges and tap into the growing demand, market players are adopting several strategic approaches. Investments in research and development are being made to improve the efficiency of organic farming methods, enhance yield, and develop innovative starch derivatives that cater to specific industrial needs.

Collaborations between producers, certification bodies, and policymakers are essential for streamlining organic certification processes and promoting harmonized standards across regions. Such efforts can facilitate smoother trade and expand the market reach of organic starch.

Technological advancements in agricultural practices, such as precision farming and sustainable irrigation techniques, can play a pivotal role in reducing production costs and ensuring consistent raw material supply. Manufacturers are also exploring partnerships with local farmers to secure organic raw materials and support community-based agriculture.

Future Prospects

The organic starch market is poised for sustained growth, underpinned by increasing consumer awareness about the environmental and health benefits of organic products. Emerging economies in Asia-Pacific and Latin America present significant opportunities, as rising disposable incomes and changing dietary preferences fuel demand for organic food and beverages.

In conclusion, while the organic starch market faces certain obstacles, the growing emphasis on sustainability and clean-label solutions creates a fertile ground for innovation and expansion. By addressing challenges through strategic initiatives and technological advancements, stakeholders can unlock the full potential of the organic starch industry and contribute to a greener, healthier future.

Get Free Sample and ToC : https://www.pristinemarketinsights.com/get-free-sample-and-toc?rprtdtid=NTIx&RD=Organic-Starch-Market-Report

#OrganicStarchMarketTrends #OrganicStarchMarketGrowth #OrganicStarchMarketAnalysis #OrganicStarchMarketOpportunities #OrganicStarchMarketOutlook

0 notes

brandspurng · 1 year ago

Text

Agriculture News Update: The Latest Developments in Nigeria's Farming Sector

Introduction: Nigeria's agricultural sector plays a vital role in the country's economy, providing livelihoods for millions of people and contributing significantly to food security and economic growth. Keeping abreast of the latest news and developments in the agricultural industry is essential for farmers, policymakers, and stakeholders alike. In this blog post, we'll explore the most recent updates and trends shaping agriculture News in Nigeria Today.

Government Initiatives and Policies: The Nigerian government continues to implement various initiatives and policies aimed at boosting agricultural productivity, enhancing food security, and promoting rural development. Stay informed about government programs such as the Anchor Borrowers Program, the Presidential Fertilizer Initiative, and the Agriculture Promotion Policy (APP) to understand their impact on farmers and agricultural practices nationwide.

Technological Advancements: Advancements in agricultural technology are revolutionizing farming practices in Nigeria, making them more efficient, sustainable, and resilient to climate change. Keep an eye out for news about innovative technologies such as precision agriculture, drone surveillance, and mobile applications that are empowering farmers with real-time data and insights to improve crop yields and manage resources more effectively.

Market Trends and Prices: Monitoring market trends and prices is crucial for farmers, traders, and consumers to make informed decisions about production, marketing, and purchasing agricultural products. Stay updated on commodity prices, market demand, and supply chain dynamics for key crops such as rice, maize, cassava, and cocoa to capitalize on market opportunities and mitigate risks.

Climate Change Resilience: Climate change poses significant challenges to Nigeria's agriculture sector, including unpredictable weather patterns, droughts, floods, and pest outbreaks. Stay informed about climate-smart agriculture practices, adaptation strategies, and resilience-building initiatives that are helping farmers mitigate the impacts of climate change and safeguard their livelihoods.

Youth Engagement and Empowerment: Engaging youth in agriculture is essential for the future sustainability of Nigeria's farming sector. Keep abreast of news about youth-led initiatives, training programs, and entrepreneurship opportunities that are encouraging young people to pursue careers in agriculture, innovate new solutions, and contribute to the development of rural communities.

International Partnerships and Trade: Nigeria's agricultural sector is increasingly interconnected with global markets and international trade agreements. Stay informed about bilateral and multilateral partnerships, trade negotiations, and export opportunities that are shaping Nigeria's position in the global agricultural economy.

Conclusion: Staying informed about the latest news and developments in Nigeria's agriculture sector is essential for driving innovation, fostering resilience, and unlocking the full potential of the country's farming industry. By staying abreast of government initiatives, technological advancements, market trends, climate change resilience efforts, youth engagement initiatives, and international partnerships, stakeholders can work together to build a more sustainable, inclusive, and prosperous future for Nigeria's agriculture sector.

#Agriculture News in Nigeria Today

0 notes

botanyone · 2 years ago

Text

Unlocking the Sweet Potatos Underground Secrets Will Boost Food Security

Unlocking the Sweet Potato’s Underground Secrets Will Boost Food Security https://ift.tt/KsNU3fF In a recent article published in AoB PLANTS, Sarah Mathura underlines the urgent need for a more profound understanding of sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas) storage root initiation. The sweet potato is a crucial global food crop, ranking sixth in importance for its significant contribution to energy supply in the diets of many in developing countries. But, despite its value, understanding how these storage roots – the edible part of the crop – develop remains fragmented. Storage roots, or the fleshy tubers of the plant that store nutrients, are pivotal for crop yield. Understanding how these storage roots initiate and develop could lead to better crop yields and more secure food sources. While other crops have been studied extensively, progress on sweet potato has lagged due to challenges inherent to the crop, including its complex hexaploid genome, i.e., having six sets of chromosomes. The article doesn’t only highlight this knowledge gap; it identifies important aspects of hormone signalling during storage root initiation that need further investigation and suggests potential candidate genes for future study. Hormones, in this context, refer to substances produced in an organism that regulate growth and development. They play a vital role in the process of tuberization, the process of forming tubers or storage roots. A crucial question Mathura points to is whether there is a specific signal or set of signals that initiate tuberization. Answering this could prove beneficial to plant breeders, allowing them to select varieties of sweet potato that yield more efficiently and at a quicker pace. This would, in turn, contribute to improving food security, especially in developing countries heavily reliant on this nutritious crop. Sweet potato SR [storage root] initiation is a complex process that involves the interplay of several signalling pathways that involve various hormones, TFs and miRNAs. Prior to the release of a high-quality genome reference, progress in elucidating these pathways lagged in comparison to other well-studied storage organs, such as potato and cassava. It is expected that sweet potato research will accelerate with the availability of improved databases and experimental resources. While the present era of research on SR formation in sweet potato is largely based on transcriptomic data, it is expected that more proteomic and metabolomic data will complement these studies. This will lead to the improvement in our knowledge on these complex regulatory pathways and this should translate into producing better-yielding sweet potato varieties. Mathura 2023. READ THE ARTICLE Mathura, S.R. (2023) “Deciphering the hormone regulatory mechanisms of storage root initiation in sweet potato: challenges and future prospects,” AoB PLANTS, 15(3), p. lad027. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1093/aobpla/plad027. The post Unlocking the Sweet Potato’s Underground Secrets Will Boost Food Security appeared first on Botany One. via Botany One https://botany.one/ June 17, 2023 at 09:00AM

#Botany #Plant Science #Botany One

0 notes

humanrightsconnected · 3 years ago

Photo

As the fear of a global food crisis continues to grow, read our blog post on the Fair Food Program (FFP) and other Worker-Driven Social Responsibility (WSR) programs, which are proven to be successful in securing food justice.

📷 by Annie Spratt on Unsplash; photo description: cassava farming in Sierra Leone

#hrcblog #food crisis #fair food #farmworkers #farmers’ rights #workers’ rights #food justice #food security #food democracy #food sovereignty #food access #food safety #food hygiene #food system #sustainable food system #sustainable agriculture

2 notes · View notes

cathkaesque · 5 years ago

Link

In Brazil, family farms stand in direct contrast to, and often in conflict with, agribusiness. Family-owned and operated farms in Brazil run the gamut, with some being large-scale, serving urban and rural markets; while many others are small-scale, land-poor operations, characterized by subsistence and non-market activities.

Unlike the industrial agribusiness model – where monoculture and high profit dominate – family farming in Brazil is characterised by polycultures, several different crops planted side-by-side, with each farm typically integrated into its community. “The family and the farm are linked, co-evolve and combine economic, environmental, social and cultural functions,” writes the UN Food and Agriculture Organisation.

There are 4.4 million family farms in Brazil, making up 85 percent of all agricultural establishments in the country. Though statistics vary somewhat, the family farm sector makes a significant contribution to Brazil’s national food security, producing an estimated 70 percent of the food that is consumed in the nation. However, these family farms accomplish this feat utilizing less than 25 percent of Brazil’s agricultural land.

In comparison, highly capitalized, export-oriented, large-scale commodity growers hold the lion’s share of arable and grazable land. Brazilian agro-industrialists own around 800,000 farms which occupy 75.7 percent of the nation’s agricultural land, with 62 percent of total agricultural output. Further defining the inequity, the top 1.5 percent of rural landowners occupy 53 percent of all agricultural land.

A sharp contrast also shows up as to what is grown: soy, corn, coffee, sugar, beef, pork and chicken are at the heart of Brazil’s industrial agribusiness supply chains. Over half of the soy, coffee and sugar produced in Brazil is exported to Europe, China and the U.S. along with other nations.

On the other hand, anyone who’s spent much time in Brazil, will be well acquainted with black beans, rice and farofa (made from cassava) – most of what Brazilians eat every day. Family farming produces 87 percent of cassava, 70 percent of beans, 34 percent of rice, and 21 percent of wheat consumed in Brazil. It also accounts for 60 percent of milk, 59 percent of cow herds and 50 percent of poultry. It’s worth wondering what would happen environmentally, and to global food security, if Brazil’s diet of cassava and beans could be introduced to the developed world.

While farmers like Daniel Groli and Zezao attribute Brazil’s astronomical agricultural growth to large-scale export-oriented agroindustry – such as their own – family farming has also played a significant, though unsung role, in what has been called Brazil’s “Agricultural Miracle.”

Family farms in Brazil make up more than 80 percent of agricultural production units responsible for 38 percent of the gross value of agricultural production, according to the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE).

Good stats on how this model of agriculture is not necessary to feed Brazil. - it is, however, necessary for providing Brazilian capitalism with a fat stack of profits exporting soy and beef to Western corporations.

#socialism #Amazon #Brazil #Jair Bolsonaro #agriculture

9 notes · View notes

foodsindustry · 3 years ago

Photo

Ice Cream Industry to Emerge as a Major End-User in Glucose Syrup Market

Market Overview

MRFR (Market Research Future) expects the glucose syrup market 2020 to cover significant grounds at a rate of 3.6% from 2016 to 2022 (projection period). We will provide COVID-19 impact analysis with the report, along with all the extensive key developments in the market post the coronavirus disease outbreak.

Top Drivers and Barriers

Glucose syrup remains quite popular among consumers due to its extended shelf life and the fact that it is a better substitute for conventional sugar. Anti-crystal, nontoxicity, preservative and anti-freezing humectant properties boost glucose syrup’s appeal and demand as well. The glucose syrup product is widely used as a thickener and sweetener and its ability to varnish food-grade by glazing it, has raised its organoleptic value in the food and beverage sector. Glucose syrup’s rich moisture content makes it ideal for use in preparing candies and jellies. The ice cream industry has emerged as a significant end-user in the glucose syrup market, where it helps prevent crystallization.

Glucose syrup is a substantial source of energy for yeast, which has translated into its extensive use in the brewery industry. Glucose syrup has high amount of short carbohydrate, which makes it easily digestible by infants and elderly individuals. Cereal sweeteners enjoy massive demand in the soft drinks industry, with the latter emerging quite lucrative in emerging markets of South America and Asia Pacific. Although aerated drinks and juices can be sweetened with the use of low-calorie syrups or saccharose sugar, glucose syrups have now sparked the interest of the developing countries, which can be a lucrative opportunity for the top players in the global market.

To cite an instance, in November 2020, Ingredion EMEA expanded its range of specialty sweeteners and sugar reduction solutions across Africa and Middle East, by launching Stable sweet LD low sugar glucose syrup. It is derived from corn and helps companies develop products with higher shelf-life, while bringing down the sugar content. The glucose syrup has applications in lollipops, chewy sweets, jellies, gummies and hard boiled candy.

Major Industry Vendors

Vendors with a robust foothold in the global industry include Tate & Lyle plc (U.K.), Roquette (France), Agrana Group (Austria), Cargill Inc. (U.S.), Archer Daniels Midland Company (U.S.), Ingredion Incorporated (U.S.), Grain Processing Corporation (U.S.), and more.

Market for Glucose Syrup Segmentation

Aimed at producing a bird’s view of the glucose syrup industry, the report has considered source, grade and application as key segments.

The main sources from which glucose syrup is derived include wheat, corn, potatoes, barley, cassava, rice, and more. Corn and then wheat are the leading and second leading segments in the market, respectively.

Grade-based market segments are industrial, pharma, food and more. Substantial consumption of glucose syrup in the food sector will ensure food grade segment’s lead in the global market in the coming years.

Form-wise, the key market categories are granular, liquid, and others. Liquid form, followed by granular, is scaling the market at the fastest rate of 3.85 %.

Pharmaceuticals, beverage, confectionery, food, and more are the top applications of glucose syrup. Food-based application should secure the top spot in the glucose syrup market over the review period.

Regional Study

The regional study of the glucose syrup industry covers Asia Pacific or APAC, Middle East and Africa or MEA and North America along with Europe.

The glucose syrup business has been the most lucrative in APAC in the past few years, with India and China having taken the lead. Consumers in the region are increasingly opting for healthier and more natural alternative to sugar, in view of the rising cases of obesity and diabetes. Large-scale production of sugar beet, new firms seeking entry and the surge in organic food items on e-commerce sites can be key growth boosters in the following years.

North America should charge forward at the fastest rate of 3.94% in the years to follow, thanks to the substantial corn subsidies granted by the government along with other farm subsidies. The amplified demand for convenience food along with personal care products where glucose syrup is an essential component, also favors the North American market.

#glucose syrup market #glucose syrup market research #glucose syrup market research reports #glucose syrup industry #glucose syrup industry trends #glucose syrup industry share #glucose syrup industry size #glucose syrup industry key players #glucose syrup market key companies #glucose syrup market growth #glucose syrup

0 notes

adalidda · 1 year ago

Text

Unlock Global Markets for Your Agricultural Commodities with Deko Industries

Looking to scale up your agribusiness and distribute at least 50,000 metric tons annually of various agricultural commodities? Despite possessing this substantial supply capacity, you're encountering challenges in securing buyers within the global market.

Deko Industries specializes in connecting agribusiness firms like yours with a diverse portfolio of international buyers seeking commodities such as cassava, soybean, sesame, sorghum, cocoa, and more. Our extensive network and experience in the agricultural sector allow us to facilitate both short-term and long-term supply contracts tailored to meet your firm's specific needs.

By partnering with us, your agribusiness firm can leverage our expertise and connections to:

Establish lucrative and sustainable trade relationships with buyers from different regions and markets

Streamline the process of securing buyers and negotiating favorable contracts for your agricultural products

Save time and money by avoiding the hassle and risk of dealing with intermediaries, brokers, or middlemen

Access our comprehensive services that include the digitalization of your agricultural value chain

Grow your business and increase your profitability in the global agricultural trade arena

Don’t miss this opportunity to take your agribusiness to the next level. Reach out to us today to discover how Deko Industries can assist your agribusiness in navigating the global market, securing reliable buyers, and establishing fruitful long-term partnerships. Let’s explore the possibilities together and pave the way for your business’s success in the global agricultural trade arena.

Our Terms

We offer a simple and transparent pricing model that is based on the value we deliver to you. Here’s how it works:

Annual Subscription: $10,000 USD per year, deducted from our sales commission. This covers our services and support throughout the year.

Sales Commission: 3% to 5% on the annual sales contract, payable upon each receipt of payment against a Letter of Credit (LC). This reflects our performance and results in securing buyers and contracts for you.

Site Visit: Before finalizing the contract between our companies, we would like to visit your warehouse and production site, at your convenience and at your expenses. This visit is intended to strategize on optimizing our sales approach and foster trust among all parties involved—your agribusiness firm, our buyers, and our company. This collaborative discussion lays the groundwork for a successful and mutually beneficial partnership.

To contact us, please click here https://dekoholding.com/dekoposts/NaZMEATTQDSsK3XkA/unlock-global-markets-for-your-agricultural-commodities-with/dekonews

Deko Industries

Cambodia

Phone/WhatsApp: + 2349040848867 (Nigeria) +85510333220 (Cambodia)

WeChat ID: wxid_8r2809zfgx4722

Email: [email protected]

Website: https://dekoholding.com

Deko Group operates across the entire agricultural value chain, encompassing cultivation of crops through to the export of agricultural commodities. Our primary focus is leveraging technologies and innovative approaches to revolutionize this value chain. We firmly believe that Nigeria possesses the potential and resources required to emerge as a leading exporter of agricultural commodities.

Should you be involved in the agricultural commodities value chain (including food manufacturers, bio-ethanol producers, by-products manufacturers, and investors), we eagerly anticipate your contact to explore potential collaborations. Together, we can generate value for our customers, partners, and stakeholders while making a positive impact on local communities and the environment. Our unwavering commitment lies in delivering premium-quality products and services while championing innovation and sustainability.

For deeper insights into Deko Group and opportunities for collaboration, please visit our website: https://dekoholding.com

0 notes

annieboltonworld · 3 years ago

Text

Juniper Publishers-Open Access Journal of Environmental Sciences & Natural Resources

Comparative Evaluation of the Cyanide and Heavy Metal Levels in Traditionally Processed Cassava Meal Products Sold Within Enugu Metropolis

Authored by Ezeh E

Abstract

Studies were carried out to comparatively evaluate the cyanide and heavy metal levels in traditionally processed cassava meal products (abacha, akpu and garri) sold within Enugu Metropolis using relevant analytical procedures and instrumentation. The mean levels of cyanide in the abacha, akpu and garri samples sold within Enugu metropolis were, 11.07, 6.84 and 9.22ppm respectively. Only the mean cyanide levels in abacha samples sold within the metropolis was above the maximum safe intake limits of 10ppm in cyanide containing food/feed for human and animals. The levels of cyanide in the samples were statistically significant (p < 0.05). Cd, Zn, Cu, Pb and Fe were all detected at non-toxic levels in the traditionally processed cassava meal product sold within Enugu metropolis. The mean levels of the metals in akpu were significantly higher than in the other studied samples sold within the metropolis (p < 0.05). Varying periods of fermentation, soil chemistry and ecology was attributed to be responsible for the varying levels of cyanide in the samples. Contamination during processing and in the soil where the cassava were harvested could have significantly influenced the levels of the studied heavy metals in the samples.

Keywords: Heavy Metal; Cyanide; Akpu; Garri; Abacha

Theoretical Basis and Methodology

Cassava (Manihot esculentacrantz) is a tuberous root belonging to the surphorbiaceae family. Due to its high adaptability to a variety of environmental conditions, cassava is considered an important nutritive source [1-30]. It is the third largest source of carbohydrates after rice and maize, being an important dietary component for populations worldwide [16]. Cassava is an all season crop of the tropics and ranks among the top ten food crops in the world [15]. Today, Africa is the largest producer of cassava referred to as the bread of the tropics, with Nigeria leading with nineteen percent of global market share [10]. It holds the position as a primary food security crop in Africa due to its resistance to drought and disease, flexible planting, harvest cycles and tolerance of low-quality soils [17]. Cassava is a tuber crop that is propagated by stem and matures between 6-12 months of planting depending on the variety [22]. It supplies about 70% of the daily calorie of over 50 million people in Nigeria [8]. Edible part of fresh cassava root contains 32-35% carbohydrate, 2-3% protein, 75-80% moisture content, 0.1% fat, 1.0% fibre and 0.70-2.50% ash [29-31].

According to [14] fresh cassava roots cannot be stored for long because they rot within days of harvest since they are bulky with about 75% moisture content with the roots and leaves containing varying amounts of cyanide which is toxic to humans. Therefore, cassava must be processed into various forms in order to increase the shelf-life of the products, facilitate transportation and marketing, reduce cyanide content and improve palatability [32-36]. Cassava can be processed into a number of products both traditionally and industrially [13]. Depending on the product, the methods involved in processing cassava include, peeling, cutting, and submerged fermentation, dewatering, sieving, frying, washing, frying, cooking and pounding [34]. Some commonly processed cassava meals include chips, abacha, fufu, lio-lio, tapioca, cassava flour and garri [21]. For instance, abacha is a traditionally processed by first harvesting and peeling the cassava and was quickly followed by cooking the tubers to soften for a period of time. The cooked cassava will be sliced and soaked in water over night. After about 12hours of soaking, the cooked and sliced cassava will be washed thoroughly with water until it become edible [21]. According to 33, the cassava product called akpu is usually prepared by harvesting and pealing cassava tubers and then washing them into a container where it will be fermented with water for atleast seven days to ten days. It is then removed from the fermented water and mashed in a sieve bag that drains out water when compressed/ swizzed. The mashed cassava in the sieve bag can be cooked and pounded into gelatinized pastes called fufu [30]. Stated that the traditional production of garri involves peeling of the cassava tubers and grating it into fine pulp. Next the pulp is transferred into lessian sacks and compressed to drain and ferment for days. The fermented and relatively dewatered pulp will be sieved to remove fibrous materials and palm oil could be added according to preference. Roasting is carried out in large frying pan to yield gelatinized granules of reduced moisture content which can be stored for relatively long-time. Palm oil is added to cassava mash to give the garri an aesthetic value and source of vitamin A.

Though cassava mealed products such as fufu, cassava and abacha contain a list of mineral elements in trace amounts which are of good use to the body, May also contain a number of heavy metals. These heavy metals sometimes are accumulated in the cassava through the soil. Heavy metals are environmental contaminants with the capability of finding their way into the food we eat and causing human health problems. They are given special attention throughout the world due to their ubiquitous nature and toxic effects even at low concentrations [11]. Heavy metals contamination of the environment and food materials are major source of concern. In humans, heavy metals are taken up through consumption of heavy metal laden food, water and inhalation of heavy metal contamination of heavy metal contaminated air [24]. Heavy metals such as Cu and Zn are essential for normal plant growth and development since they are constituents of many enzymes and other proteins [36]. Elevated concentrations of both essential and non-essential metals in the soil can lead to toxicity symptoms and accumulation in parts of plants [18]. Plants growing within the heavy metals contaminated areas usually take up heavy metals by absorbing minute deposits on the parts exposes to the air in the polluted environments and during uptake of contaminated soils [37-39]. Analysis of processed cassava flour has revealed the presence of poisonous metals such as lead, arsenic and cadmium [5].

Cadmium, chromium and nickel are carcinogenic [28]. Lead causes neurological impairment and central nervous system damage by its ability to mimic and inhibit the actions of calcium in its neurotransmission function [26]. Some heavy metals such as cobalt, copper, iron, manganese and zinc are essential macro elements for living things however; they are toxic at high concentrations [4]. Cassava contains the cyanogenic glucosides, linamarin and lotaustralin which are hydrolyzed after tissue damage by the endogenous enzyme, linamarase to the corresponding cyanolydrin and further to hydrogen cyanide (HCN) [9]. The hydrogen cyanide is responsible for the chronic toxicity when inadequately processed cassava products are consumed by humans and animals for prolonged periods [8]. During processing, cassava tubers are disrupted and cyanogenic glucosides is brought in contact with p – glucosisases and a-hydroxynitrile lyases, engendering and hydrolysis of cycinogenic glucosides into cyanolydrins, hydrogen cyanides and ketones [8]. Based on the wide consumption of cassava products as everyday diet in many Nigerian homes, studies were carried out to comparatively evaluate the cyanide and heavy metal levels in traditionally processed cassava meal products (garri, akpu and abacha) sold within Enugu metropolis.

Materials and Method

Sample Collection

Samples of abacha, akpu and garri were obtained at various market outlets within Enugu metropolis.

Elemental Analysis

The samples were oven-dried at 100oC for 3hrs. Thereafter, the samples were ground into a fine powder and 0.5g each was weighed into a 100ml volumetric flask. Thirty mililitres (30ml) of mixed concentrated acid (650ml nitric acid + 80mlperchloric acid+20ml suphuric acid) were added and the mixture heated at 150oC until dense white fumes of nitric acid escaped. Thereafter, it was cooled and brought to a volume of 50ml using de-ionized water in a 50ml volumetric flask. The resulting solution was analyzed with atomic absorption spectrometer (AAS model Pa 990). The spectrometer was standardized using standard solutions of the elements analyzed and distilled water was acidified and aspirated to zero using air acetylene for Cu, Cd, Zn, Pb and Fe. The absorption radiation of the elements produced from the metals at various wavelengths was measured using the atomic absorption spectrometer.

Statistical Analysis

All data were expressed in mean and standard deviation. The data was subjected to one way analysis of variance (ANOVA) using SPSS version 18.0 at 5% level of confidence.

Hydrogen Cyanide Determination

This was carried out using the method adopted by [31]. 2g each of the samples were made into paste in 20ml of distilled water in a corked conical flask overnight after which extraction took place. The extract was filtered and the filtrate was used for the analysis. 1ml of this was put in a test-tube, followed by the addition of 4ml alkaline picrate solution. This was heated in water at 90oC for 5min. After the colour development, the absorbance value of each sample was determined at 490nm using spectrophotometer (AAS 6200 SHIMADZU). The actual amount of cyanide was extrapolated from the standard cyanide was extrapolated from the standard cyanide curve. A blank reagent from 4ml picrate solution and 1ml distilled water were also prepared to standardize the spectrophotometer before measuring the absorbance. Table 1 shows that the mean levels of cyanide in abacha, akpu, and garri sold within Enugu metropolis were, 11.07, 6.84 and 9.22ppm respectively. These cassava meal products (akpu, garri and abacha) were traditionally processed using different methods, with the sole aim of reducing the cyanide level, improve storability, convenience and palatability of the meal products. The order of decrease of cyanide levels in the sample were, abacha>garri>akpu as shown in Figure 1. The mean levels of cyanide in the abacha samples sold within Enugu metropolis was above the maximum safe limit of 10ppm in cyanide contaminating food/feed for humans and animals [38]. Abacha is a ready-to-eat cassava meal product widely consumed in many Nigerian homes, so to have found the cyanide level above the recommended limit in this edible food/snack is of public health concern. According to [29], fermentation of cassava tubers is a major determining factor in achieving a significant reduction in cyanide content in cassava meal products [33]. Stated that the disparity in cyanide content in cassava meal products is as a result of difference in ecological factors and soil chemistry in the various places were the cassava is grown [8]. Stated that key component of soil such as potassium, calcium and magnesium adversely affected the biosynthesis and translocation of cyanide to storage organs, which invariably contributed to inconsistencies in cyanide content in the plant tissues.

WHO STD-10.00ppm

Another reason that can be attributed to the high level of cyanide in the abacha and garri samples sold within Enugu metropolis can be attributed to the short period of fermentation employed by the processors. According to [12], HCN is responsible for tissue hypoxia. Chronic exposure to HCN causes neurological, respiratory, cardiovascular and thyroid defects. Symptoms of this may be seen less than one minute following ingestion of cyanide [19].

Cadmium

Table 2 shows that the mean levels of cadmium in the abacha, akpu and garri sold within Enugu metropolis were, 0.084, 0.206 and 0.135ppm respectively. The order of decrease of the metal in the samples were,akpu>garri>abacha (Figure 2) Statistical analysis of cadmium levels in the samples shows significant difference at p < 0.05. According to [39], plants growing within heavy metal contaminated areas usually take-up heavy metals by absorbing minute deposits on the parts exposed to air in the polluted environments and during uptake from contaminated soils.

The difference in soil chemistry from which the cassava tubers were processed into the sample products were grown, heavy metal contamination levels of such soils, contamination from water used during the fermentation process and general processing environment could have significantly influenced the levels of cadmium and other metals in the samples. The mean concentrations of cadmium in the samples were within recommended permissible limits for a solid food product [38] Chronic exposure to cadmium could cause nephrotoxicity in humans, mainly due to abnormalities of tubular re-absorption [27,28]. Higher values of 0.55  0.002mg/kg, for cadmium in cassava tubers sold in major markets in Benue State, Nigeria, than obtained in this research [13]. Did not detect cadmium in cassava flour sold in Anyigba market, Kogi State, Nigeria.

Zinc

Table 2 shows that the mean levels of zinc in abacha, akpu and garri sold within Enugu metropolis were, 4.82, 6.76 and 5.49ppm respectively. The mean concentration of zinc in the cassava meal samples were statistically significant (p < 0.05) and within the established recommended maximum safe limits. The order of decrease of zinc in the sample were, akpu>garri>abacha. The mean values of zinc obtained for the cassava meal products in the research compared very well with 5.660.31mg/kg reported by [24] for the metal in garri sold in some major markets in Yenegoa metropolis, Nigeria. Zinc is one of the major essential elements required by the human system [23]. Zinc plays several functions in the human body, such as wound healing, blood clotting, and proper thyroid function, maintenance of vision, bone mineralization, fetal growth, sperm production and cell growth. High concentrations of zinc in the body induce several health effects such as vomiting, gastrointestinal irritation, weakness, anaemia and loss of hair [2].

Copper

Table 2 shows that the mean levels of copper in abacha, akpu and garri sold within Enugu metropolis were, 1.34, 2.81 and 1.65ppm respectively. The order of decrease in mean levels of cooper in the samples were,akpu>garri>abacha as shown in Figure 2. The mean levels of copper in the cassava meal samples were found to be statistically significant and equally within the maximum permissible limit [38]. Higher mean values of 3.720.87mg/kg was obtained for Cu by [24] in garri sold in some major markets in Yenegoa metropolis, Nigeria, than reported in this study [6].

A higher mean value of 10.180.73mg/g for copper in cassava flour processed by road side drying along Abuja Lokoja highway, Nigeria, than what was obtained for the metal in the studied cassava meal products in this research. The plant uptake of heavy metals is dependent upon a number of factors. These factors include; physical processes such as root intrusion, water and ion fluxes and their relationship to the kinetics of metals solubilization in soils, biological parameters, including kinetics of membrane transport, ion interactions and metabolic fate of absorbed ions, soil acidity and the ability of the plants to adapt metabolically to charging stresses in the environment [7].

Although, copper is an essential element of life, it causes adverse effects on health by acute or chronic intoxications or even death of animals, when it is introduced in excess in the body. The biological functions of copper include cell metabolism, normal iron metabolism, red blood cell synthesis, connective tissue metabolism and bone development [35,3]. Chronic exposure to high concentration of copper causes irritation of nasal mucosa, vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, kidney and liver damage.

Lead

The mean levels of lead in abacha, akpu and garri samples sold within Enugu metropolis were, 0.203, 0.431 and 0.323ppm respectively. The mean levels of the metal in the cassava meal samples decreased in the following order; akpu>garri>abacha and shown in Figure 2. The mean concentration of lead was found to be statistically significant (p < 0.05) in the cassava product samples. Lead was present at non-toxic levels in the analyzed samples. Dietary intake of many heavy metals through consumption of plants has long term detrimental effects on human health [37]. Heavy metal polluted food can severely reduce some vital nutrients in the body that are accountable for declining immunological defenses, growth delay, reduced psychological abilities and gastro-intestinal cancer [23]. High level of lead in adults’ body can generate heart diseases, cancer and infertility. For children the disease caused by lead can lead to antisocial behaviour, low intelligence or hyperactivity [3,28]. Obtained a higher mean value of 0.889mg/kg for lead in garri sold in two major garri markets in Benue State, Nigeria, than reported for the metal in cassava meal samples in this research.

Iron

Iron plays an essential role in living organisms such as the formation of heamoglobin, transferrin, ferritin and bone iron – containing enzymes, transport, deoxyribonucleic acid synthesis, and electron transport chain, regulation of cell growth and differentiation and cytochromes [25].

Table 2 shows that the mean concentrations of iron in abacha, akpu and garri samples sold within Enugu metropolis were, 18.16, 23.04 and 20.25ppm respectively. The concentrations of iron in the traditionally processed cassava meal products were statistically significant (p < 0.05) and within the recommended maximum safe limits for an edible solid food. The order of decrease of the mean levels of iron in the samples were, akpu>garri>abacha [13] obtained a lower mean value of 1.27mg.g for iron in cassava flour sold in Anyigba market, Kogi State, Nigeria, than reported for the metal in cassava meal products studies in the research.

Conclusion

Cyanide was found present in abacha, akpu and garri samples sold within Enugu metropolis. The mean levels of cyanide in abacha samples sold within the metropolis were detected at above the maximum safe intake in cyanide containing food/ feed for humans and animals. The least concentration of cyanide was detected in akpu samples. The concentrations of cyanide in the traditionally processed cassava meal products (abacha, akpu and garri) sold within Enugu metropolis were statistically significant at p < 0.05. The varying duration of fermentation of the samples, soil chemistry and ecology of where the cassava were grown could have significantly influence the cyanide levels in the studied samples.

The studied heavy metals (Cd, Zn, Cu, Pb and Fe) were detected at non-toxic levels in abacha, akpu and garri samples sold within Enugu metropolis. The levels of the analyzed metals in the samples were statistically significant (p < 0.05). Higher levels of heavy metals were found present in akpu samples than in the other studied cassava meal samples.

To know more about Juniper Publishers please click on: https://juniperpublishers.com/manuscript-guidelines.php

For more articles in Open Access Journal of Environmental Sciences & Natural Resources please click on: https://juniperpublishers.com/ijesnr/index.php

#Juniper Publishers Indexing Sites List #juniper publishers publons #Environmental Chemistry #Geo Morphology #Molecular Ecology #Oceanography

0 notes

numberonepeacetragedy · 4 years ago

Text

Global Glucose Syrup Market Expected to Grow during the forecast period

Market Insight

Top Drivers and Barriers

Access Report Details @ https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/reports/glucose-syrup-market-2342

Furthermore, well-established private label vendors, rising need to curb costs and the increasing spending on R&D activities could also foster revenue generation in the glucose syrup market. Given the emerging trend of health consciousness and fitness among consumers, players are frequently launching products that contain low to no sugar that do not cause weight gain. To cite an instance, in November 2020, Ingredion EMEA expanded its range of specialty sweeteners and sugar reduction solutions across Africa and Middle East, by launching Stablesweet LD low sugar glucose syrup. It is derived from corn and helps companies develop products with higher shelf-life, while bringing down the sugar content. The glucose syrup has applications in lollipops, chewy sweets, jellies, gummies and hard boiled candy.

Market for Glucose Syrup Segmentation

Aimed at producing a bird’s view of the glucose syrup industry, the report has considered source, grade and application as key segments.

Form-wise, the key market categories are granular, liquid, and others. Liquid form, followed by granular, is scaling the market at the fastest rate of 3.85 %.

Regional Study

The regional study of the glucose syrup industry covers Asia Pacific or APAC, Middle East and Africa or MEA and North America along with Europe.

Major Industry Vendors

Request a Sample Report @ https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/sample_request/2342

NOTE: Our Team of Researchers are Studying Covid19 and its Impact on Various Industry Verticals and wherever required we will be considering Covid19 Footprints for Better Analysis of Market and Industries. Cordially get in Touch for More Details.

0 notes

biogenericpublishers · 4 years ago

Text

The Role of Technological Advancement in Improving Food Security in Africa: A Review by Desalegn Teshale Wolde* in Open Access Journal of Biogeneric Science and Research

Abstract

Technological advancement has brought significant improvement in achieving food security in many parts of the world. This paper tries to review agricultural technology advancement on improving food security in African countries. Different literatures regarding to agricultural technologies which contributed to food security were reviewed. Public investments in scientific research across countries brought significant impact on the food security of its citizens. Notably Green Revolution had brought dramatic production increase mainly in Asian and Latin American countries. Despite its positive influence in Asian countries, African were not well benefited from technological advancement. Hence, little efforts were made in West Africa countries on NERICA rice varieties and in Uganda Mosaic virus resistant cassava varieties were taken as an example. Most recently many African governments showed their commitment to support the agricultural sector so as to boost the production and thereby achieve food security. According to the literatures reviewed diverse agro ecology’s and farming system, rain fed dependent agricultural system, poor infrastructural development, limited knowledge and skills required by the technology were considered as the bottlenecks for achieving food security in Africa. Strengthen the capacity of research and scientific institutions to develop, generate and disseminate the technology could play crucial role in achieving food security. Besides strengthen technology adoption and extension services for smallholder farmers will have significant importance. Equally importantly access and provision of input and output markets, rural infrastructural development, credit access, development of irrigation canals and other issues shall be important policy directions that supports food security. Finally, creating regional or international integration enables countries to exchange, share and adopt technologies that ultimately increase production.

Keywords: Food security, agriculture, Technology, Africa.

Introduction

The world’s population is expected to be more than 9.7 billion in the coming thirty years, with nearly all of the growth occurring in the developing parts of the world particularly in sub-Saharan Africa and Asian countries. This population boom will be accompanied by increased strains on the food supply and resources, causing increased pressure on political and ecological systems, as well as threats to global security. These regions are experienced with poor agricultural production and productivity where it cannot feed the growing population.

For the last fifty years, scientific and technological advancement have benefited farmers by driving agricultural production in many parts of the world. Agricultural technologies have the potential to increase food availability through boosting crop productivity, increasing the supply and volume of food production per unit of agricultural land, sustaining the overall local and domestic food production [1]. Hence, generating appropriate agricultural technologies is among the most revolutionary and impact full areas of modern technology driven by increasing demand for food and feeding an ever-growing population. Improved technologies in agricultural sector can substantially increase the agricultural production and sustainability. Agricultural technologies refer to the improved management practices, improved and high yielding crop varieties, different agricultural machines and tools designed for improving in the agricultural production system [2]. Moreover, agricultural technology includes use of inorganic fertilizer, use of chemical like pesticides/insecticides, tilling the soil, irrigating land, cultivating crop, harvesting and threshing technologies, livestock feeding, etc.

Increasing food production with the help of land, water, local seeds, fertilizer, and pesticides will not achieve the intended yield necessary to feed the increasing population. Hence, widespread use of local and advanced technologies and practices are critical to increase agricultural production and productivity [3]. Put differently, achieving the galloping food demand Via population growth by the conventional agricultural production might not work anymore which calls attention for agricultural technology advancement. However, access, availability and use of improved technologies into the hands of farming community is hardly possible. Swaminathan (2011) pointed that technological inaccessibility or unaffordability for the poor farmers has an impact on the efficiency of agricultural production. Due to this many smallholder farmers in developing countries particularly in Africa are not yet food secure. This paper tried to review the roles of technological advancement on achieving food security in Africa.

Review Methodology

This review paper focused on technological advancement on the food security issue in Africa. Hence, different available literatures on existing agricultural technologies were reviewed.

Result and Discussion

In this section different literatures regarding to technological advancement on food security, policy approaches and different issues were discussed. Besides, the existing opportunities and challenges were also discussed.

Policy Approach on Technology Advancement

Different literatures’ show that by combining different agricultural technologies like zero tillage, conventional breeding, genetic modification, integrated soil fertility management, irrigation technology and different agronomic practices can boost the existing agricultural production. Hundreds of existing agricultural technologies and practices have the potential to boost agricultural yields in the developing world [4]. Technological innovations and improved farming practices are therefore helpful to increase agricultural production and productivity. Accordingly, African governments shall give due emphasis on the advancement of technologies mainly on drought tolerant seed varieties, drip irrigation, recommended usage and application of fertilizers, agrochemicals, agronomic practices like integrated pest management, conservation farming, and improved watershed and soil management.

African agriculture is characterized by low technology use and adoption coupled with different socioeconomic and institutional limitations for the sector. Despite the existence of agricultural research, science and training institutions in Africa, the capacity to generate, renovate and release agricultural technology is limited [5]. This might be the limited capacity of researchers due to educational system of the respective countries coupled with the limited allocation of public budget spent on research and development. Besides, poor infrastructural development, oversized and fragmented land use system, and outdated farming tools and or equipment were also contributing for low production in Africa. If agricultural technological development is not progressing, African agricultural production continues to experience low or stagnant productivity that leads to increasing food deficit and rising poverty and hunger.

A widely accepted objective for agricultural development in Africa is to achieve sustainable intensification with the adoption of new technologies such as improved high yielding seeds, inorganic fertilizer, irrigation technologies and natural resource management. These technologies improve land and labor productivity there by increasing yield. However, different reinforcing problems that is common in many African economies do not yet achieve food security. To mention some of the problems are poor infrastructures, poor human health, lack of well-developed monetary system, weak coverage of veterinary services, and thin agricultural markets. As a consequence, it has pressing challenges on the productivity of smallholder farmers [6]. The technology uptake of smallholder farmers, therefore, highly contribute to achieve food security. Hence, use of appropriate technologies can improve productivity and high volume of production both at household consumption and for increased household income [7].

Current literatures on the impacts of the technology adoption on food security in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) countries is quite limited. It usually lacks properly exploring the multiple aspects which characterize food insecurity. Many authors tried to derive conclusions on household food security indirectly by measuring, instead, the impact on household welfare [8], through monetary (income and expenditure) or production measures (farm production and yields). It showed that the effect of agricultural technologies would have significant impact to achieve food security.

The Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Program (CAADP) is Africa’s policy framework for agricultural transformation, wealth creation, food security and nutrition, economic growth and prosperity for all. "Agriculture is everyone’s business: national independence depends on its development because it enables us to escape the scourge of food insecurity that undermines our sovereignty and fosters sedition; it is a driver of growth whose leverage is now acknowledged by economists and politicians; it is the sector offering the greatest potential for poverty and inequality reduction, as it provides sources of productivity from which the most disadvantaged people working in the sector should benefit." Ibrahim Assane Mayaki, Chief Executive Officer of the NEPAD.

Another policy approach as pointed by Johanson and William (2007) is “Agricultural education and training has been demonstrated to be a vital, but much neglected, component of agricultural development in Africa. It is under-valued, under - resourced and under-provided. Human capital in agriculture has been depleted by long neglect.” Hence, what would be necessary to improve agricultural productivity and food security in Africa is strengthening agricultural educational systems, more specifically the coverage and quality of higher education and research institutes. FAO [9] indicated that agricultural growth contributes not only to achieve to food security but also greatly supports poverty reduction. This might be many developing countries are agriculture dependent economy of which the sector is the main livelihood of citizens. Therefore, sustained and continues agricultural growth is very crucial for African countries.

Technological Advancement Policy Issues Related to Food Security

Globally accepted definition of food security is a situation where “all people, at all times, have physical and economic access to sufficient, safe and nutritious food to meet their dietary needs and food preferences for a productive and healthy life” [10]. In otherworld food security refers to the minimum level and availability of nutritionally adequate and safe food, and assured ability to acquire acceptable foods in socially acceptable ways.

Many African countries have adopted food security policy as one of their main national plans. This can be achieved through greater public investment in agriculture technology generation and innovation. Using the agricultural technologies, agricultural production and productivity would increase dramatically. Besides, technologies help conserving food by substantially reducing postharvest losses and food wastage, giving farmers access to real-time information and services in the field. In general, broader use of available technologies and improved management practices would have the following issues;

Help farmers to produce more grain, which improves their livelihoods and can provide food to the growing population.

Enhance safety and nutritional value of the food

Achieve agricultural sustainability through reduced resource use and climate friendly technologies.

Once we understood the wider use of technologies, different policy instruments are important to address and enhance the technology. Following this, many African governments have given due emphasis on technology generation, development and adoption, input subsidy including credit, rural infrastructural development particularly irrigation, market access both for the input and output, access to land and other resources.

Opportunities and Constraints of Technological Advancement

In many parts of the world particularly South and East Asia countries agricultural productivity has been growing rapidly, due to extensive use of new agricultural technologies. For millions of poor people, particularly in Asia, the technological advances of the Green Revolution (complemented by a massive increase in irrigation, chemical fertilizer and high yielding varieties) greatly supported for the reduction of poverty. As farm production increases, farm household’s income and wages would be higher which leads to lowering the price of food, and hence generating new livelihood opportunities as the success in agriculture provided the basis for economic diversification [11]. Rapid technological advancement notably in the last 50 years leading to increased productivity in many parts of the developing world. Green Revolution that most Asian and Latin American countries used it as a vehicle to push out of poverty.

Agricultural technology advancement can reduce the risk of crop failures, safeguarding income of household food consumption and nutrition [12]. Hence, there is a positive link between agricultural technology and food security. Therefore, technologies enhance agricultural productivity gains and lower per unit costs of production, with the effects of raising the incomes of producers and of shifting outward the supply curve, which can lower food prices [13].

New and existing technologies to combat biotic and abiotic stresses, raise crop and livestock productivity, improve soil fertility and water available can potentially increase the amount of food production. Storage, refrigeration, transport and agro-processing innovations can address the different dimension of food accessibility. According to IFAD [14] report average cereal yield in developing countries increased by 2.7% per annum between 1966 and 1982. Particularly the performance in South Asia was quite impressive, where, between the mid-1960s and the mid-1980s, wheat yields increased by 240% and those of rice by 160% [15]. Even though rice and wheat were impact full crops during Green revolution, gain from new technology have also occurred in other crops and regions with increased investments in agricultural research and extension service.

Development and release of modern varieties have been impressive in many of the developing countries. Byerlee [16] estimated that 74% of rice, 70% of wheat and 57% of maize grown in developing countries were improved or modern varieties. Even though these seeds are outputs of the green revolution with its ingredients (HYV, fertilizer and irrigation), substantial proportion of these improved or modern seeds are grown with low or no inputs [17]. This might be taken as an additional attribute of the modern seeds. According to the reports of the world bank [18], the average cereal yield in the early times of Green Revolution (around 1961) was 1 ton per hectare in the developing world (around 1961) and the productivity rose to 3 tons per hectare in 2000. Regionally, East Asia and the Pacific increased to 4.5 tons per hectare, Middle East and North Africa increased to around 2.3 tons per hectare, while sub-Sahara countries are stagnated around 1 ton per hectare.

In 2000, the area under improved cereal varieties coverage was 84 % in East Asia and Pacific, 61% in Middle East and North Africa and Latin America and the Caribbean, while in Sub-Sahara countries the area covered by improved cereal crops were only 22%. In 2002, fertilizer consumption had reached 190 kg per ha of arable and permanent crop land in East Asia and Pacific, 73 kg in Middle East and North Africa, but Sub-Saharan countries fertilizer consumption was less than13 kg.Here fertilizer is taken as one of the agricultural technologies that can boost productivity. Given available technologies at a hand, the farmers ability or level of technology adoption is limited.

Around 1961, average cereal yields were around 1 ton per ha in the developing world, and rose to nearly 3 tons per ha by 2005. They increased to around 4.5 tons in East Asia and the Pacific (EAP), to around 2.3 tons in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), while they stagnated around 1 ton in SSA [18]. Even though a number of technologies can play a significant role in addressing food security, African countries mainly sub-Saharan region has yet food insecure. This region has many challenges of productivity than any other region of the world; more diversified agroecology, and more crop and livestock pests and diseases than elsewhere. There are no dominant farming systems that extend over very large areas such as irrigated rice and wheat in Asia. Irrigation infrastructure is poorly developed. Climate change will significantly add to the technology challenge. As a consequence of these factors, Africa is less able to borrow technology from other tropical countries; and technology transfers between regions in Africa are also constrained. Unlike Asian, African green revolution was partly on non-cereal crops like mosaic virus resistant cassava varieties released in Uganda [19].

Recently many African countries showed their commitment to boost the agricultural productivity with due emphasis on investment of science and technology. Through plant breeding techniques producing high yielding and disease, pest and drought tolerant crop varieties. These techniques can be hybridization, molecular-marker assisted selection, agricultural biotechnology, crop protection solutions and other technologies that enhance the quality and quantity of the yield. Increasing yield reduced hunger, it further leads more income, then less poverty. On the contrary technology advancement may not necessarily help poor farmers in real terms. If a country is nationally food secure, this might not necessarily mean all citizens at the household level are food secured.

The ingredients of green revolution in India were successful to increase the yield at the national level. These ingredients are affordable to those who are relatively rich farmers. Shiva (1993) as cited by Kathryn Sebby (2010) the Green Revolution favored for the rich who are endowed with best farm areas; hence they can afford expensive technological investments for. High yielding crop varieties are dependent on expensive inorganic fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides and it also requires knowledge and skills associated with use of these technologies. This large volume of fertilization and chemical use leads to serious environmental issues like salinization problem. Further they forced to sell their land and other assets to afford the technology of the Green Revolution [20]. This clearly showed poor small farmers were far away from the benefits of the Green Revolution and even worse off.

Rashid [21] summarized the futurities of Green Revolution in India; high initial outlay, since most of poor farmers were tenant farmers they have little or no money to buy seeds, fertilizer, fuel, machinery, inappropriate irrigation schemes that cause the environment, unemployment getting higher because of mechanization which leads to other social crisis, caused regional disparities as Green Revolution purposively implemented where water supply, large fertilizer access and farm credit were assured. As consequence India’s first Green revolution which was launched to ensure food security as there was severe food shortage by focusing mass production, was ended by the above-mentioned failures. Hence the country left behind achieving food security at household level.

Even though technological advancement has been registered achievement, hunger and poverty continue to be common phenomenon in the developing world. The problem is particularly acute in areas of the world dependent upon rain-fed agriculture, in particular sub-Saharan Africa, where the impact of new technologies has been less apparent and agricultural productivity has at best stagnated, and may even have fallen in some areas [22]. Widespread use of advanced technologies and practices is critical to intensifying food production in an environmentally sustainable manner, but the situation for food-insecure smallholder farmers is exceptionally risky, making them averse to experimentation [3]. Technology adoption is inhibited due to social, economic and political situation of a given many sub-Saharan countries. Hence, technologies exist, at least some, diffusing it for the poor farmers to enhance the productivity is a critical challenge [23-25].

Recommendation and Conclusion

As world population is increasing achieving food security is key issue in the 21st century. Modernizing the agricultural sector is prime objective, as the sector is main satay in many food insecure countries where population growth exceeds their economic growth. Therefore, food security without continuous and innovative technology development would have been unimaginable. African governments should create enabling policy environment on most promising research and technology innovations that further improve farm productivity. Understanding the technology and its complexity of adoption strategy must be given due attention. Since full range of scientific research both social and natural sciences are key to solve food insecurity challenges, African countries should invest on research and development [26-28]. Removing barriers that prevent technological advancement and adoption of the technology for the poor farmers is crucial, equally importantly secure input and output markets, rural infrastructural development, providing credit, constructing irrigation canals and other issues shall be policy directions that significantly supports food security. Creating regional or international coordination enables countries to exchange and adopt technologies among them [29].

Agricultural technology advancement in Africa not only boost agricultural productivity but also supports its profitability, sustainability and hence ensure food security as well as obtaining the full range of nutrients [30]. Therefore, to make these technologies impact full support policies have to be developed for effective technology transfer and extension programs that ultimately focus on smallholder farmers’ productivity.

More information regarding this Article visit: OAJBGSR

https://biogenericpublishers.com/pdf/JBGSR.MS.ID.00184.pdf https://biogenericpublishers.com/jbgsr-ms-id-00184-text/

#Food security #agriculture #Technology #Africa #oajbgsr #jbgsr #biogeneric publishers

0 notes

nigpilot · 4 years ago

Text

Endorsed! -NigPilot

...ACF backs Southern govs on grazing, says decision taken in the best interest of all ... That forum resolved that open grazing of cattle be banned across southern Nigeria ... Says nobody or society can accept a situation where herders enter any farms, rape, kill ... As PDP govs ask Buhari to send Bill to NASS to include devolution of power in Constitution AS controversy continues to trail the decision of the Southern Governors Forum to among others ban open grazing of cattle in the area, the Arewa Consultative Forum, ACF has endorsed the decision saying it was taken in the interest of all. In a statement issued in Kaduna yesterday, the forum insisted that the decision of the Southern Governors Forum will ensure an end to open grazing of cattle and also an end to insecurity and address the farmers/herders crisis in the country. According to the statement signed by the chairman of the forum, Audu Ogbe, “the ACF does not see any reason to object to a decision taken in the interest of all adding that no society will continue to watch as herders invade farms, leading to the food security crisis.” “The fact of the matter is that the crisis emanates from the belief by most herdsmen that they are free to enter any farm, eat up the crops, and rape or kill anyone raising objections. Nobody or society can accept that. “The current high price of garri is one obvious reason for this behavior. Few cassava farms cannot grow to maturity before it is harvested by the farmers. So, food security is already being threatened,” he stated. It would be recalled that the Southern Governors Forum comprising 17 state governors had last week resolved to ban open grazing and the movement of cattle by foot. Speaking further, the governors said they “observed that the incursion of armed herders, criminals, and bandits in the southern part of the country has created a severe security challenge, such that citizens are not able to live their normal lives, including pursuing various productive activities, leading to threats to food supply and general security”. Consequently, they “resolved that open grazing of cattle be banned across southern Nigeria.” While backing the call to end open grazing, ACF noted that “the bulk of the violent herders are the ones marching in from neighboring African countries in large numbers, thousands at a time, and showing no regard to boundaries whether state or regional. They have to be stopped. “The forum urged northern governors to also consider the use of ranches as an alternative to open grazing in the region. “Therefore, the Umar Abdullahi Ganduje formula must be adopted to stop the entry into Nigeria of cattle from West Africa. The solution is for Nigeria to seek an amendment to Article 3 of the ECOWAS Protocol, especially as regards the free movement of cattle and other livestock without special permits. “If this is done, we have over five million hectares of land in old grazing reserves left, enough to accommodate over 40 million cows if well grassed and watered. “Northern governors should immediately look into this and see the viability. Within those spaces, ranches can be developed for lease to Nigerian herders so that this matter can be brought to an end. Thereafter, any herders found roaming can be penalized. “Our ECOWAS neighbors can find ways to deal with their own issues the way they deem fit. We can seek support from AfDB, the World Bank, the EU or the Kuwait Fund, or any source willing to support us in resolving this problem. “Hurling abuses, trading suspicion, and threatening warfare as is currently the trend will only produce grief and disaster,” the statement added. In a related development, the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, governors have asked President Muhammadu Buhari to immediately send an Executive Bill to the National Assembly to amend the Constitution to devolve more powers to the States with respect to security arrangements culminating in some form of State Policing and the general security architecture. In a communiqué issued at the end of its meeting in Ibadan, the governors said they reviewed the state of the nation, particularly practical next steps to take to advance the conversation on the worsening security situation and collapsing economy of Nigeria. According to the communiqué, the governors also resolved that in the interim, Mr. President should summon an immediate meeting of the Nigerian Police Council, which comprises Mr. President and all state governors and other critical stakeholders to evolve and implement strategies to combat the present threats to Nigeria’s union, especially with respect to policing. That the meeting agreed that the Police Force still remains the appropriate institution to secure Nigeria’s democracy and should not be subjected to personal attacks and that the welfare, training, equipment, and funding of all security agencies should be given priority It said the meeting also supports the earlier position taken by the Nigeria Governors Forum, Northern Governors Forum and recently by the Southern Governors Forum to adopt ranching as the most viable solution to the herders/ farmers clashes in Nigeria; the restructuring of the Nigerian federation to devolve more powers and functions to the States and reform of various civil institutions to achieve efficiency and equity for all sections of Nigeria. “The meeting enjoins all Nigerians to work together to achieve peace and harmony with one another, devoid of discrimination based on ethnicity, religion, and other cleavages. “To this end, the meeting called on the incompetent and rudderless APC Government to take bold and deliberate steps to de-escalate and lower tensions in our country and concentrate on projects and policies that will enhance and promote national unity and cohesion. “The meeting re-iterated our earlier call for the National Assembly to expedite action on the passage of the Electoral Act that will ensure a free and fair election, including provisions for electronic accreditation and electronic transmission of votes. “The meeting thanked the host governor, Seyi Makinde of Oyo State for being a gracious and wonderful host, and congratulated him for the many landmark developmental projects he has executed, and urged him to continue to work with all stakeholders in the Southwest Zone to ensure that PDP takes over the majority of the states in the zone. The communiqué was signed by the chairman of the forum, Governor Aminu Tambuwal of Sokoto State, Udom Emmanuel of Akwa Ibom state, and ten others. FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY. The content of this Website is made available by the Nigerian Pilot Newspaper Publisher. This Website seeks to facilitate the dissemination of informative, with engaging, and constructive news about events in Nigerian, Africa, and Globally as they happen. The "Distributor" of this Information are the Nigerian Pilot Newspaper and Nigerian Pilot Tv brands of Dom Communication, LLC. DISCLAIMER: FAKE NEWS PUBLICATION. This Website NigPilot collects information from several Independent Reporters and may contain unauthenticated and/or copyrighted materials the utilization of which has not generally been explicitly approved or authorized by the copyright proprietor. NigPilot with concern to increase in misleading social media publications, please report any Fake, False, or Misleading News to [email protected] for immediate action. FAIR USE NOTICE. In accordance with THE LAW, the material on this Website is included for informational and educational purposes. If you wish to use copyrighted material from this site for purposes of your own that go beyond “fair use,” you must obtain permission from the copyright owner or Nigerian Pilot WEBMASTER. For Nigerian Pilot Newspaper Advert Rates Click Here! Read the full article

#NigPilot #ACF #ArewaConsultativeForum #DailyNigerianNewspaper #NigerianNewsHeadlines #NigerianNewsupdate #NigerianPilotNewspaperOnline #SouthernGovernors Forum

0 notes

jayu123-me · 4 years ago

Text

Impact of COVID-19 on Cassava Flour Market

Market Outlook

Cassava flour is gaining worldwide recognition as an alternative for wheat flour and other gluten-based flours. It contains more calories in comparison to other flours. Cassava flour is considered as a rich source of starch, which is the main source for carbohydrates and dietary fibers.

Read report Overview-

https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/cassava-flour-market.html

In the global flour market, the demand for cassava flour is high, owing to its very less content of gluten in comparison to other varieties of flours. In the global cassava flour market, demand is mostly from North America and Asia Pacific. The Asia Pacific region is also the world’s largest producer of cassava flour. Due to an increase in the demand of cassava flour, it is anticipated that there would be higher returns for investors on cassava flour in the near future.

Request PDF Brochure –

https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=B&rep_id=54402

Growing Demand for Cassava Flour in Food and Feed Industries

In the global flour market, the demand for cassava flour is increasing for household purposes, owing to its higher nutritional content. Cassava flour is enriched with calcium, potassium, sodium, phosphorous, iron, and other ingredients.

REQUEST FOR COVID19 IMPACT ANALYSIS –

https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=covid19&rep_id=54402

Along with mineral content, cassava flour is a rich source of various vitamins such as vitamin A, and vitamin C in a large amount. Due to the proven health benefits of vitamin C, it is good for the skin and hair, and also helps boost the immune system, which has led to an increase in the consumption of cassava flour. The demand for cassava flour is increasing at a good growth rate in the food industry and also in the feed industry. In the food industry, the demand for cassava flour is increasing as a significant gluten-less and nutritional rich ingredient, owing to the increasing consumption of healthy food products. Cassava flour is also used as a sweetener in many processed food products. In addition, cassava flour is used in bakeries and confectionaries. In bakery, cassava flour is widely mixed with wheat flour in different concentrations, which enhances the nutritional content of bakery products. Cassava flour is also considered to be a prominent food security source in dry and arid locations, attributable to the ability of the cassava plant to develop in the much less water containing regions.

Global Cassava Flour: Market Segmentation

On the basis of source, the global cassava flour market has been segmented as-

Organic

Conventional

On the basis of application, the global cassava flour market has been segmented as-

Sweeteners

Chips

Feed

On the basis of distribution channel, the global cassava flour market has been segmented as-

Direct

Indirect

Hypermarkets

Supermarkets

Retailers

e-Commerce

On the basis of end use, the global cassava flour market has been segmented as-

Food Industries

Bakery

Confectionary

Global Cassava Flour Market: Key Players

Some of the key players operating in the global cassava flour market are Otto’s Naturals, Healthy Foods, American Key Food Products, Mhogo Foods, Mohan Exports (India) Pvt. Ltd, Dadtco Philafrica B.V., Woodland Foods, Tapioca Vietnam, Vaighai Agro, Psaltry International Limited, and others. More food companies are showing keen interest in using cassava flour in their production line, and this is expected to increase its demand in the near future.

Opportunities for Market Participants

In the global cassava flour market, the demand for cassava flour is increasing for food and bakery products, owing to it being less in gluten. The increase in the demand for processed food leads to more investment and establishment of new food industries who are focusing on producing gluten-free products. These companies are using cassava flour as a replacement for gluten-based flours in their products to fulfill the demand from health conscious customers. Cassava flour is also considered as the third-most important source of energy in the tropics, which generates an opportunity to fulfill the demand.

Global Cassava Flour Market: Regional Outlook

Asia Pacific is the highest producer of cassava flour, and companies such as Mohan Exports (India) Pvt. Ltd, Tapioca Vietnam, Vaighai Agro, etc., are situated where it can be anticipated that the demand for cassava flour will increase during the forecast period. North America is expected to witness a robust growth rate, owing to many global key players of different sectors in the region. Increasing awareness and urbanization in Middle Eastern and African countries is expected to increase the consumption of raw processed food and the establishment of food companies during the forecast period. In addition, the demand for cassava flour is increasing in the European region too, owing to its increasing consumption of processed food.

0 notes

csrgood · 4 years ago

Text

Small Farms, Big Impact: How We're Building Thriving Communities Around the World Together

This past week, during the 75th (and first-ever virtual) UN General Assembly, AB InBev joined conversations around the world’s most pressing problems. In collaboration with industry, government and civil society leaders, we look for solutions and opportunities to address the economic impact of the pandemic, climate change’s increasing pressure on the global food system, and advocate for collaboration to accelerate progress.

Here at AB InBev, our beers are made from high quality, natural ingredients grown by more than 20,000 farms across 13 countries. Of these, nearly 2/3 are smallholder farmers in developing markets, where in many geographies means they would farm less than one hectare (or 2.47 acres) of land. These farms historically were only able to work enough land to meet their basic needs. However, with greater access to technology, resources, agricultural support and formal markets, their farms are now more productive and becoming more profitable.

“This is about more than just beer,” said AB InBev Chief Sustainability and Procurement Officer Tony Milikin. “AB InBev is committed to helping our farmers gain new skills, become better connected and gain financial empowerment, because it’s good for their families and the economic health of our shared communities, while securing the long-term viability of our local supply chains. Together we’re building a better, more resilient global food system – and company – for the future.”

Supporting smallholder farmers is just one commitment AB InBev has made as part of our ambitious 2025 Sustainability Goals and in support of the larger United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

While we know there is still work to do, this year, we are proud to have been featured in Fortune’s Change the World 2020 rankings for our work supporting farmers in our global supply chain through collaboration and innovation to deliver economic and environmental impact. This is the 6th year Fortune has published the Change the World List to celebrate companies and leaders that embrace corporate purpose and recognize how it can add value to business and society. Last year, AB InBev was featured for our innovative work in agriculture with BanQu.

“Along with our valued partners, we will continue to invest in and work with smallholder farmers to improve their livelihoods while ensuring the availability of high-quality local ingredients,” said Katie Hoard, AB InBev global director of agricultural innovation and sustainability. “Our partners’ expertise, shared values and resources allow us to jointly develop better solutions with more immediate impact.”

“If farming develops, our well-being will develop”

One of these like-minded organizations is TechnoServe, an international development nonprofit that connects small-scale farmers and entrepreneurs with private sector partners. Through the global partnership – and especially in response to COVID-19 - we've strengthened our support of smallholder farmers across the globe.

When the pandemic prevented our Ugandan barley farmers from accessing their usual village drying centers, our team on the ground worked with TechnoServe to bring portable dryers closer to farming communities to alleviate the need for travel while also maintaining the quality of the crop. Meanwhile, we continue to use SMS and radio communications to reach more farmers remotely with updates on weather patterns and guidance for the growing and harvest seasons.

The Ugandan farmers then sell their crops via safe, socially-distant digital payments through BanQu, world’s first non-cryptocurrency blockchain platform. A member of our 100+ Accelerator’s inaugural cohort, BanQu gives smallholder farmers an economic identity and a voice in global supply chains.

Our Zambian Breweries team also uses BanQu to financially empower farmers producing cassava, a tuberous root used to brew local beers like Eagle Lager. With BanQu, we are able to ensure that farmers receive the right price for their crop and are paid securely through digital payments made almost immediately upon delivery of their crop. Additionally, to boost the quality of cassava grown in the region, our teams work with the government agricultural research institute to develop new, more disease resistant plant varieties to improve yields and income for not only the farmers we work with but the broader cassava industry in Zambia.

Another crop we commonly source from smallholder farmers is sorghum, a cereal grain that can also be used to brew beer in places where more traditional beer ingredients, like barley, do not grow well. In Tanzania, for example, our Tanzania Breweries Limited team has established a pilot program and local partnership with the World Food Program and Farm to Market Alliance to increase production of sorghum while providing a more reliable source of income for 1,400 farmers. The program provides farmers with access to input credit, sorghum seeds, crop insurance, technical training and –most important – assures that their crops will be purchased at the end of the growing season.

“Access to reliable markets is one of the many barriers holding back smallholder farmers from breaking out of subsistence farming,” said WFP Tanzania Country Representative, Michael Dunford in an interview with Africa Agribusiness.

“While we are working with sorghum farmers to invest in increased production beyond household use, we also need to ensure commercial buyers such as Tanzania Breweries Limited are there to purchase the surplus, boosting the livelihood of farmers.”

Across the Atlantic Ocean, our farmers are helping boost the economy in northeastern Brazil, where unemployment numbers are high. Together with local governments, our AmBev team launched a project to create and distribute new products made from locally grown cassava. Three new beers were developed - Legitima, Nossa and Magnifica - each distinct to a northeastern state, using cassava sourced from 545 family farms in 36 towns across the three states. To date, over 5,000 farmworkers have found employment through the expansion of the cassava market and more than $1 million has been injected into the communities of Maranhão, Pernambuco and Ceará.

Our company purpose is to bring people together for a better world, and that starts with our farming communities. While we leverage our scale and local approach to strengthen markets opportunities for farmers and to help improve crop production, we know that we alone cannot solve the challenges facing smallholder agriculture. Now more than ever, we are committed to developing collaborative solutions that put farmers at the center. Our planet and our beer depend on it.

source: https://www.csrwire.com/press_releases/45846-Small-Farms-Big-Impact-How-We-re-Building-Thriving-Communities-Around-the-World-Together?tracking_source=rss

#CSR #corporate social responsibility #social good #philanthropy #employee engagement #workplace givi

0 notes