Consumer preference/acceptability studies of selected cassava-based products in four districts of Zambia

Abstract

Cassava (Manihot esculenta Cr) is an important crop after maize in Zambia more than 30% of the population rely on it as a food security crop (Poole, 2010). However, Cassava processing and utilization in Zambia is still rudimentary and focused on traditional products i.e. Bwabi, Kapesula etc. For that reason, there is limited cassava – based products in the country. To commercialize and promote the utilization of cassava in Zambia, a consumer acceptability survey was conducted in four of the five cassava growing project targeted Districts – Mansa, Kasama, Serenje and Kaoma. These districts were chosen based on the facts that they are the major cassava growing and consuming areas. Five novel cassava based- products: Chin-chin, Tid-bits, Cassava leaves, Biscuits and Fritters were produced and used. The findings of this study highlight the following for each product