Arecanut Processing
Arecanut Processing
From Field to Market: The Tough Trek of Arecanut
Areca nuts, or betel nuts, from the areca palm are widely consumed in Asia-Pacific. Post-harvest processing relies on labor-intensive manual tasks (de-husking, boiling, drying), lacking machinery. Current interventions are inadequate and often inaccessible for the majority.
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The Harvester jumps from tree to tree harvesting areca nut clusters manually and sliding them down on a rope tied to his waist, making his job the riskiest.
There is a risk of climbers falling from such heights and enduring fatal injuries, especially when the trees are damp.The skills of harvesting are traditionally handed down through generations with a master apprentice relationship, most start their training as early as the age of 14.
De-husking is the domain of female labour. The women use an iron sharp "L" shaped bend knife which is fixed on a wooden piece is used.
The frequent injuries occur due to the absence of safety measures. Dehusking process is time-consuming, the constant bending of their necks during dehusking results in neck pain.
Problem Statement:
Problem Statement:
How might we ensure safety of farmers in each of the operations?
Lack of Machinaries- Technology gap
Lack of quality control measures
Weather related losses
Drudgery
