The College of Home Science and Industry (CHSI) through its Department of Food Science and Technology (DFST) inaugurated its Food Processing R&D Facility funded by the Department of Agriculture – Agricultural Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (DA-ACEF)n on June 30, 2023.
The newly upgraded building houses different food processing equipment like a smokehouse, freeze dryer, automatic meat slicer machine, and cabinet dryer among others. The same facility will also strengthen the mode of instruction, research, and extension endeavors of CHSI and as well as the assistance of the university to micro, small & medium enterprises (MSME), cooperatives, and other stakeholders in developing food products for their livelihood opportunities.
Dr. Armando N. Espino Jr., VP for Research and Extension, acknowledged the efforts and dedication of the DFST faculty in acquiring the equipment and upgrading their facility. He also recognized the strong partnership between DA and CLSU as they always show their support for the research endeavors of the university.
“Malakas tayo (CLSU) sa product development dahil sa mga capable na faculty-researchers, kaya naman makakaasa kayo (DA) na sa bawat sentimo na in-invest nyo sa CLSU ay tatapatan namin yung ng higit na pagsisikap upang ang ating R&E activities ay higit na maging maunlad at madami ang makinabang,” said Dr. Espino.
Meanwhile, to show his support for this innovation, Dr. Junel B. Soriano, Director of the Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Agricultural Research (DA-BAR) delivered his message wherein he posed a challenge to the faculty to consider applying their facilities and products for FDA-approval. He also recognized the initiative of CHSI for including cooperatives as beneficiaries of this project.
“I think the project was packaged perfectly since there are MSMEs involved in the operation at hindi lamang for them to attend training but also to develop new products, and to enhance their skills, as well as the students. I want to see in the future that they bring their knowledge and skills to their communities and teach other associations or groups, especially the food growers. Masaya po kami kapag kayo ay kumikita na.” Dr. Soriano added.
After the opening program, a ribbon-cutting and blessing of the facility was led by Bro. Noah C. Cruz witnessed by Dr. Arthur D. Dayrit, OIC-Regional Technical Director for Research, Regulatory and Integrated Laboratories, Department of Agriculture Region III, Dr. Ariel G. Mactal, VP for Business Affairs, Dr. Ravelina R. Velasco, VP for Academic Affairs, Dr. Evaristo A. Abella, VP for Administration and other CLSU faculty and staff.
On the other hand, Catalanacan Multi Purpose Cooperative, SGPM Guimba, Potter's hand Agricultural Cooperative, the partner cooperative assisted by the CHSI showcased their food products including mushroom chips, ready-to-eat tofu sisig, bibingkang gatas, chili paste, among others.
