THE SECRET INGREDIENT TO RURAL ECONOMIC SUCCESS
At Food Scientist for Hire, we think globally and act locally. Yet, there are times when our team’s hands-on training expertise is needed further afield. When this happens, we are happy to share our industry knowledge.
The Initiative for Agricultural Development of Kosovo (IADK), established in 2005, is engaged in rural development. The organization aims to create better socio-economic conditions in rural areas. Its goal is to help reduce unemployment and imports, produce healthy foods using natural resources, and protect the Kosovan environment.
Agriculture is key for Kosovo’s rural population. More than 50 percent of the landlocked country is agricultural. Rural dwellers rely on agriculture for food and jobs, most of which take place on small family plots.
From beekeeping to fruit and vegetable preservation, processing, and more, the IADK works closely with local farmers, associations, nongovernmental organizations, government authorities, and municipalities to develop agriculture in Kosovo.
The invaluable work of the IADK becomes much easier when members can share their experiences and concerns with food industry experts and put into practice the knowledge and advice gained from external partners.
FOOD SCIENTIST FOR HIRE TEAM, BALKAN-BOUND
Our Food Scientist for Hire team was honored to visit the IADK organization in Kosovo last summer.
Heading off to the beautiful Balkans were three of our most experienced food scientists. The trio included Nicolas Tsisios, Senior Food Technologist, Lisanne van der Kooi, Senior Food Product Developer, and Processing Specialist, Frank Smeltink.
Our A-team provided expert training on food product development and fruit and vegetable processing. In terms of land use, the fruit and vegetable sub sector in Kosovo accounts for 4% of the entire agriculture sector. This sub sector includes fruit trees, vegetables, gardens, seedlings, and vineyards.
Over two days, Frank provided theoretical training. He shared industry knowledge of jam/marmalade, and mayonnaise production, and tomato sauce processing. He also explained various processes, including curing, salting, canning, waste reduction, and assessing internal markets.
Meanwhile, Nicolas and Lisanne led practical training sessions, bringing along mixers and ingredients. They delved into the way in which ingredients interact and how recipes are formulated. They also held a group exercise workshop on preparing a shelf-stable strawberry sauce for ice cream.
The opportunity to weigh ingredients and prepare recipes firsthand reinforced the practical nature of the training.
Attendees learned about food legislation in other countries, food labeling requirements, nutritional value calculation, and the setting up of ingredient lists.
The final day involved site visits to three companies focusing on fruit and veg storage. This was an excellent opportunity to learn about the current issues facing Kosovans in manufacturing, product development, and sourcing.
During all three visits, the team received a warm and friendly welcome. Everyone involved was not only keen to learn but also committed to putting the skills and knowledge gained into real-world practice.
Another hot topic of the day was on-the-spot problem-solving and how to address any issues in the research report at the end of a project.
Looking towards the future, Nicolas and Lisanne examined how Food Scientist for Hire can use its expertise to further support these SMEs.
The IADK carries out vital work. It enables the people of Kosovo to work on the land, live off the land, and deliver food to the table. Food Scientist for Hire was privileged to contribute to their efforts.
FOOD SCIENTIST FOR HIRE: BREATHE LIFE INTO YOUR FOOD OR DRINK DREAM!
Are you in the US, UK, Australia or Europe? If you’re looking for practical food product development, innovation, or training, call Food Scientist for Hire. We are a team of passionate professionals who will share their knowledge to help create practical solutions.
