Benefits of Solar Dried Produce

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Benefits of Solar Dried Produce

The Benefits of Solar Dried Fruits and Vegetables, Spices, and Herbs

Tharaka Invention Circle CBO is actively researching methods of food preservation using solar energy. The aim is to identify methods and materials available locally here in East Africa. Effective solutions will add value to local crops, provide employment, eliminate food waste, and provide additional nutritious foods to local diets thereby promoting better health outcomes.

Solar drying is a natural, sustainable method of preserving fruits, vegetables, spices, and herbs. It uses the sun’s heat to remove the moisture from food, without the use of chemicals or artificial heat. This preserves the nutrients and flavor of the food, making it a healthy and delicious option for consumers.

Nutritional Benefits

Solar dried fruits and vegetables are a good source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They are also low in calories and fat, making them a healthy snack or addition to a meal. For example, solar dried mangoes are a good source of vitamin C, which is an important nutrient for immune health. Solar dried tomatoes are a good source of lycopene, which is an antioxidant that has been linked to a reduced risk of cancer.

Economic Benefits

Solar drying can also be beneficial to the local economy. It can create jobs in rural areas, where many people are unemployed or underemployed. It can also help to boost agricultural production, as farmers can sell their crops even when they are not in season. For example, a study by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations found that solar drying can increase the value of agricultural products by up to 30%.

Environmental Benefits

Solar drying is also a sustainable method of food preservation. It does not require the use of fossil fuels, which can help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. It is also a water-efficient method of food preservation, as it does not require the use of large amounts of water to wash and cook food.

Images

* A photo of a variety of solar dried fruits and vegetables, such as bananas, mangoes, tomatoes, and peppers.

* A photo of a woman solar drying fruits and vegetables in Kenya.

* A photo of a family enjoying a meal of solar dried foods.

Conclusion

Solar dried fruits and vegetables, spices, and herbs are a healthy, delicious, and sustainable way to preserve food. They can be a valuable source of nutrition for people who live in rural areas, and they can also boost the local economy. If you are looking for a healthy and sustainable way to enjoy your favorite fruits, vegetables, spices, and herbs, I encourage you to try solar dried foods.

Here are some additional economic benefits of solar drying in Kenya:

Increased income for farmers: Solar drying can help farmers to increase their income by extending the shelf life of their crops and making them available to consumers year-round.

Creation of jobs: Solar drying can create jobs in rural areas, where many people are unemployed or underemployed. This can help to reduce poverty and improve the quality of life in these communities.

Increased access to nutritious food: Solar dried foods can provide a source of nutritious food for people in rural areas, where access to fresh fruits and vegetables can be limited. This can improve health outcomes and reduce malnutrition.

Reduced food waste: Solar drying can help to reduce food waste by extending the shelf life of crops. This can save farmers money and help to protect the environment.

Overall, solar drying is a sustainable and beneficial technology that can have a positive impact on the local economy in Kenya.

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Mechanical/Solar Engineer, Prof. Oku Singer

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