Report on the training of small fruit processors on value addition to fruits by drying using a gas cabinet dryer conducted at the factory premises of Quarcoo Initiatives, Madina new road, Accra

Abstract

Following the successful design, fabrication and installation of the gas cabinet dryer at Quarcoo Initiatives, a 2-day training program was organized for staff of the company. This training was aimed at introducing staff of the company to dried fruit processing and also to orient them on the operation of the gas cabinet dryer. The training included both theory and hand-on practical sessions. Fours fruits, pineapple, pawpaw, mango and coconut were used to practically demonstrate the various unit operations involved in processing dry fruits. These raw materials were selected in order to give the participants a much wider understanding of the peculiarities of different fruits. The participants were taught the details of each unit operation involved in the processing of dry fruits. They were also given an expose on food safety in food processing. The participants expressed much appreciation at having taken part in the training program because they acquired the skills and practical knowledge required to process fruits by drying. They were urged to apply the knowledge gained in their line of work in order to produce good quality dried fruits for the local and international markets