The research team will test different supply models of bean/seed varieties for their suitability for precooking.
This project used a randomized control trial to test the efficacy of two technologies – metal silos and thick plastic hermetic ‘super bags’ – against the use of conventional storage methods (polypropylene bags and mud huts) to reduce post-harvest
The high cost of animal feed protein constrains vulnerable communities from making a living from poultry and fish farming. Insect based feeds have the potential to relieve this burden and empower women and young people.
Unequal power relations between men and women influence the adoption and impact of new agricultural technologies at the household level, therefore efforts were made to ensure initiatives intervened in a gender-just manner.
The project investigated using insects as a source of protein feed to improve productivity for poultry and fish farming enterprises in Kenya and Uganda.
New storage technologies and community education will be tested to tackle aflatoxin contamination and to reduce human exposure, particularly in young children.
While some household challenges emerged from collective marketing, the project enabled women to participate in male-dominated marketing activities and to benefit from the income generated.
A ready-to-eat bean snack, bean flour, and easy-to-cook bean product have been developed through this successful project.