Valorisation of Local Oil Press Cake from Mongongo for Modern African Protein Foods (VALOMA)

Converting local by-products from mongongo oil production into sustainable proteins – for the future of nutrition in Africa

Key data

Description

Mongongo oil, obtained from the mongongo fruit, is a popular product in Namibia and is specifically obtained from the nut inside the fruit. Processing of the nut for oil, results in many by-products, one such product, that holds much potential, is the protein component of the nut. The Jojoba for Namibia trust produces a protein powder out of the mongongo nut along with all the other processing by-products. Together with the ZHAW Zurich University of Applied Sciences, the Jojoba for Namibia trust aims to incorporate the mongongo protein powder into potential products. The overarching goal is to develop products, high in protein, that can be sold on the local market in Namibia, which provide the general population with nutrients, while remaining true to traditional raw products without compromising on the taste of local products.