LUNA, Apayao – Dumapayao Farms Corp. (DFC), Inc. is set to introduce coconut flour to its product lineup following a successful Technology Transfer in Coconut Flour Processing.
Led by technical experts from the Department of Science and Technology-Industrial Technology Development Institute (DOST-ITDI), Buenvenido Flores Jr. and Romnick Enriquez, this event took place on March 12-13, 2024, at the DFC, Zumigui, Luna.
Funded by the DOST’s Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP), this project includes the acquisition of a dryer and pulverizer essential for coconut flour production, along with comprehensive training for the farm’s personnel.
Coconut flour is derived from coconut meat, a byproduct of extracting coconut milk, which is commonly used in the production of virgin coconut oil (VCO). This innovative process not only adds value to coconut farming but also promotes sustainability by utilizing all parts of the coconut tree for economic purposes.
The initiative comes at a time when the market is experiencing price increases for bakery products due to shortages in wheat and flour-based items. DFC collaborated with DOST-Apayao Provincial Science and Technology Office to combat this issue to promote a circular economy centered on coconuts and their by-products, aiming for positive socioeconomic impacts in local communities.
Notably, coconut flour boasts a high total dietary fiber content, surpassing popular sources like oat bran and flaxseed. Its consumption has been linked to effective waste, sugar, and fat elimination from the body, contributing to better management of chronic diseases such as diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. By K. Castillo