“We want to identify which variety is best for freezing and present options to exporters to consider. We also want to present options for exporters so they can minimize the cost and still produce quality frozen taro” – Scientific Research Organisation of Samoa
A project driven by the Scientific Research Organisation of Samoa (S.R.O.S) with assistance from Australia to look at the best ways to export frozen talo was put to the test yesterday.
The first sensory evaluation for frozen taro, as per ongoing trials funded by the Pacific Horticultural and Market Access Programme (P.H.A.M.A) programme, took place at S.R.O.S’s conference room.
The project is looking at the best ways to package talo so that it could arrive at its final destination fresh and ready to be used.
Yesterday’s evaluation looked at the Samoa 1 type, after it was frozen for three months.
“Freezing is one of the methods of food preservation that retains taste, texture and nutritional value over long storage periods,” S.R.O.S’s Manager of Plant and Food Technology, Kuinimeri Asora Finau explained.
“There were eight different steps that the Samoa 1 taro was put through. So today is to taste and see what the outcome of our research is.
“The idea is to determine the optimum process pathway to freeze taro."
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“We want to identify which variety is best for freezing and present options to exporters to consider. We also want to present options for exporters so they can minimize the cost and still produce quality frozen taro.”
One of the markets being targeted is Australia.
There is still no talo from Samoa being exported there since the days of the talo leaf blight.
“Our role is to look at which variety; Samoa 1 and Samoa 2, that is best when it’s frozen.”
She added that this is the first time Samoa has come “across this process” and she hopes that if successful, the project will give more opportunities to talo farmers.
“What we are looking at is to enter the market in Australia with the best ‘ready to cook frozen taro’ after this process.”
So what’s the verdict after yesterday’s test?
Unfortunately, we will have to wait until next week when the Samoa 2 type talo is put to the test.
P.H.A.M.A. is an Australian-funded initiative designed to provide practical and targeted assistance to help Pacific countries manage the regulatory aspects associated with exporting primary products.
This encompasses gaining access for new products into new markets, as well as helping to manage issues associated with maintaining existing trade.
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