Luanar students develop new food products

Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (Luanar) home economics and human nutrition students have developed about 15 new food products to address prevailing nutritional needs in communities.

Speaking during home economics and human nutrition final year students symposium on Wednesday in Lilongwe, head of Luanar’s Home Economics and Human Nutrition Department Agness Mwangwela, said the 15 new food products and other home craft items have been developed by 45 final year students, who are pursuing Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Food Science and Bachelor of Science in Agriculture (Family Science).

Said Mwangwela: “The products are unique in terms of reducing time spent to prepare food, for example, rice. Some foodstuffs are also enriched with chidede and malambe to make them rich in Vitamin C which helps the body to absorb iron.

“There are also snacks which have been made using locally grown agriculture products like groundnuts. We intend to use various avenues like agriculture fairs to disseminate information about these new food products.”

Principal Secretary for Department of Nutrition and HIV/Aids in the Office of the President and Cabinet (OPC) Edith Mkawa said about half of the country’s population is still ignorant on the diverse food options available in their communities.

“After much has been discussed about food, it is depressing that about 50 percent of people in this country still don’t know much about food and what foodstuffs to eat for good health.

“This year is the year of nutrition in the world. People should consume food which is nutritious. The products are very good. These students have a fresh mind and we would want to use them in many areas.

“The problem is that we are not consistent and persistent with the food messages we are giving to people. If we are consistent and persistent in combining the messages with demonstrations, many people can improve on the food which they eat,” said Mkawa.

Symposium chairperson Chimwemwe Phiri also said the products are aimed at addressing various nutrition needs including Vitamin A deficiencies, saying they will strive to produce more food products after graduation.