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The Tsasetso Cooperative has developed technology to manufacture crisps from 'Amadumbe'.
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Cooked Mopani worms - a popular indigenous delicacy.
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Indigenous South African delicacies that have been revived through technology will soon be sharing a platform with western foodstuffs, through the work of a Bloemfontein-based Cooperative.
The Tsasetso Foods Co-operative is a subsidiary of IndiZa Foods - a poverty alleviation and job creation venture that promotes and commercialises indigenous foods. IndiZa Foods is a section 21 company formed with the assistance of the CSIR, and made possible through funding from the Department of Science and Technology. A number of SERA participants participated in the initiative, including members of the Sustainable Rural Development and Food Security Focus Areas.
"We focus on the production of indigenous foods, product development and training of the community," explains Lesego Sejosengoe, manager of the Tsasetso Food Co-operative. The idea of coupling modern technology with indigenous knowledge to improve traditional culinary products and elevate them to a marketable standard has birthed similar businesses such as Isintu Foods in Richards Bay and Chivirikani Foods in Limpopo.
"It was interesting for people to see how technology can complement their traditional methods of preparing indigenous foods and how, through this advancement, the shelf life of products can be prolonged," she says.
The commercialisation of these food dishes is keeping the local heritage alive.
The organisation has also developed technology to manufacture crisps from amadumbe. Amadumbe is a potato-like indigenous tuber that resembles a sweet potato and is grown in KwaZulu-Natal as a subsistance crop. The amadumbe is nutritious, drought-resistant and easy to grow.
Various other products are processed from mopani worms and marula fruit. The products are sold by the communities who manufacture the goods; plans are afoot to ensure that these tasty delights appear in retail stores in the near future.
Source: CSIR
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