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Abstract:
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Mangoes (mangifera indica) are one of high value fruits grown for cash and snack. In Malawi, they are widely grown in warm to hot areas with altitude from 0 to 750m above sea level. The varieties grown include improved ones such as Itaden, Tommy, Atikins, Keitt, Davis, Haden, Irwin, Boribo and local varieties grown naturally and widely include Kalisere, Boloma. (Malawi Government, 1994). An interview with farmers as well as survey studies show that lack of … efficient means or adequate processing techniques for quickly processing mangoes, poor marketing (for fruit mangoes) and transport systems as well as perishability, contribute to more post-harvest losses which at present are over 50% of the production (Malawi Government, 1996). Chitedze Research Station developed a technology for extraction of pulp from ripen mango fruits. The objectives of this study were to: a) Examine the machine aspects with a view to necessitate machine modification for the convenience of the farmers and designers, b) Conduct laboratory performance tests and analyse samples, c) Conduct field trials with farmers and carry out on farm evaluation. |