Unravelling the potential of neglected crop diversity for high-value product differentiation and income generation for the poor: The case of chili pepper in its centre of origin

In-field open sun drying procedures are still widely used due to low cost and easy management. The process is highly dependent on environmental conditions and final products vary widely with respect to quality. Furthermore, extended drying times required to reach the secure level of moisture content generally allow for microbial contamination and development of mycotoxins. A major constraint faced by small-scale farmers in meeting high-value market requirements is that in basic transformation (drying) at the farm or association level, current drying technologies cause a high post-harvest loss. Hohenheim University, together with national partners, will evaluate the impact of currently used technologies on food safety by analyzing critical control points (HACCP) in pilot farms and farmer associations. Recommendations for good manufacturing practices will be formulated.

This project aims to develop knowledge and test innovative approaches to enhance the use of native and neglected crop diversity in order to increase the incomes of poor farmers and provide for more diversified and sustainable production in developing countries specifically in Bolivia and Peru in order to improve production chains and expand access into global markets of capsicum products and to increase the income of the local people.  In response to growing demand for differentiated high-value foods and ingredients, the project team will focus on Capsicum (chili pepper) in its centre of origin (Bolivia and Peru) and develop a model approach to tackling the widespread problem of under-utilization of crop genetic diversity.