Title : Characterization of local shelling, storage, and processing practices of egusi seeds (cucurbitaceae) in Benin
Abstract:
Egusi seeds (Cucurbitaceae) are an excellent source of proteins, unsaturated fatty acids, minerals, and bioactive compounds essential for human health. Widely used in various food products such as sauces, oils, and fritters, they play a crucial role in food security and the cultural heritage of local populations in Benin. However, the value chain remains constrained by rudimentary processing and storage practices, including labor-intensive manual shelling and inefficient preservation methods.
This study aimed to characterize local shelling, storage, and processing practices in order to identify constraints and opportunities for improvement. The survey was conducted from October to November 2024 in four representative municipalities (Glazoue, Djougou, Ketou, and Porto-Novo) among 651 stakeholders, 137 producers, 159 traders, 157 processors, and 198 consumers selected through simple random sampling. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and direct observations, and analyzed using R software to generate descriptive statistics.
Results showed that shelling is performed exclusively by hand after seed moistening. This technique, considered laborious and time-consuming, often causes injuries and limits processing capacity. All respondents (100%) expressed willingness to adopt mechanical shellers. Storage practices remain limited: only 18 to 35% of actors store seeds, mainly in undehulled form, sun-dried, and packaged in polyethylene bags. Storage duration ranges from 3 to 6 months, with average reported losses of 10 to 16 kg per year, primarily due to drying difficulties and pest infestations. Regarding processing, the study identified nine major derived products (powder, sauces, fritters, etc.) consumed across all social groups. Their production, entirely artisanal and non-standardized, results in considerable variability in product quality.
In conclusion, the egusi value chain in Benin relies on valuable endogenous knowledge but remains hindered by technical and organizational limitations. Mechanization of shelling, improvement of drying and storage techniques, and capacity building for processors emerge as key priorities to enhance the sustainability and added value of this strategic sector.
Keywords: Egusi, Local Practices, Shelling, Storage, Processing, Benin.
