Associate Professor, Arba Minch University (AMU), ETHIOPIA
Reimagining Food: From Indigeneous Crops to Advanced Additives
Host: E. Benedetti
Abstract
Global food security faces mounting risks from population growth and climate change, underscoring the need to harness climate-resilient, underutilized crops like Ensete ventricosum (enset). A staple for over 20 million Ethiopians, enset’s traditional slow fermentation limits its potential. We developed a microbial starter culture that reduces fermentation from 60 to 7 days, improving safety, flavor, and shelf life. Complementary capacity building at Arba Minch University and the launch of Lucy Enset, a startup producing gluten-free, organic, low-glycemic products, highlight the translational impact. Beyond technology, the initiative empowers women, engages youth, and strengthens inclusive value chains. Scaling across regions and crops, this model integrates local knowledge with biotechnology to foster resilient, nutritious, and sustainable food systems
International Seminar Programme
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