This project will assist rural cane-producing families in central Honduras to transform their cane harvest to a natural nutritional product for family consumption and local markets. Under the technical guidance of COMAL, this project reverses hazardous practices currently employed by large landholders. By producing & transforming natural cane sugar in an eco-friendly way, the COMAL network provides consumers with a healthy alternative to industrialized sugar and ensures local employment.
Smallholder farmers in central Honduras have traditionally produced cane sugar in two to five-pound cubes for local consumption or have sold raw cane to middlemen at a low price to be processed industrially. Traditionally, product transformation has not taken into consideration health or environmental best practices. Artisanal ovens have been fueled by much needed firewood or by dangerous combustibles such as tires. These methods have contributed to hazardous air and water quality.
In 1996, COMAL introduced ecofriendly ovens fueled by cane byproducts in enclosed, hygienic areas. Two farming cooperatives currently produce an organic cane sugar, "panela granulada". These farmers nourish the soil organically and transform the product in a small plant licensed by the country's health authorities. COMAL markets the product to local consumers, bakeries and supermarkets. A third cooperative in the highlands of Comayagua is needed to meet growing product demand.
After the completion of this project, participating families will have scaled up their production, increased their income, welcomed new members and expanded operations. Members will have experienced direct participation in our national organization that provides access to other local experiences as well as to health, environmental and agricultural entities in the country. This project will benefit farming families, protect the environment and provide a fair-priced, nutritional sweetener.
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