Description

Abstract: A project was carried out by Kasetsart University and North Carolina State University (funded by USAID/PCRSP) to assess the socioeconomic impacts of the peanut technology transfer training course at Kasetsart University on the participants’ knowledge of and attitudes toward aflatoxin and the processing technology of peanut products. Pre-test/post-test information from participants was analyzed to assess new knowledge gained. Mail survey questionnaires to participants and in-person interviews at peanut cooperatives were designed to obtain information on demographics, peanut farming practices, peanut quality, postharvesting, aflatoxin contamination, and producing products. In-person interviews were conducted at three community commercial peanut product cooperatives.

Pre-test/post-test knowledge scores increased significantly. Results indicate that adopting the sorting and processing technology enabled the cooperatives and the private company to significantly improve the quality of their production and subsequently their sales. Members of the cooperatives claim a better life and have more time for their families. This study also suggests that the peanut processing technology transfer is feasible and that training in these new technologies should be considered by similar cooperatives and private companies.