Cashew Processing Research Articles

Challenges Faced by Cashew Processing Industry in Kerala, India: The Perspective of the Firm Owners and the Labourers

The study aimed to identify and analyse the constraints faced by the cashew processing unit owners and labourers in Kerala, particularly in the district of Kollam were the cashew industry is prominent. A total of 40 cashew processing units were selected randomly, and three workers were chosen from each unit, resulting in a sample of 160 respondents. Information was gathered from both the unit owners and the workers regarding the major constraints they are facing in the cashew processing. These constraints were ranked using Garrett’s ranking technique. The high processing costs, competition from other cashew-producing nations, and difficulties in maintaining a steady supply of cashew kernels were the major constraints faced by the processing unit owners. While, irregular income, physical strain and health issues, and high debt burden were the important constraints reported by the cashew labourers. The findings highlighted the need to address the critical issues impacting the productivity and sustainability of the cashew industry in Kerala. This study provides valuable insights that can guide policymakers and stakeholders in developing targeted interventions to improve working conditions, financial stability, and operational efficiency in the cashew sector.

Poly(lactic acid) (PLA)/poly(butylene succinate adipate) (PBSA) films with Micro fibrillated cellulose (MFC) and cardanol for packaging applications

Micro Fibrillated Cellulose (MFC) has emerged as a promising component in film formulations due to its unique barrier prope.rties. In this study, to best of our knowledge, cardanol, a biobased plasticizer derived from cashew processing, was employed for the first time, as a dispersing aid for MFC, during a liquid assisted extrusion technique with a Poly(lactic acid) (PLA)/Poly(butylene succinate adipate) (PBSA) blend. The aim of the work is the production of PLA/PBSA/MFC films for packaging applications. The addition of different MFC amount was investigated (added at 0.5, 0.75 and 1 wt.% concentrations). The results obtained are very interesting, in fact from one hand Cardanol improved the compatibility between PLA and PBSA and avoided the MFC agglomeration. On the other hand, micro fibrillated cellulose ensured a stable film blowing and the achievement of enhanced barrier properties, seal ability and mechanical resistance. In particular, the best result was obtained with an MFC content of 0.75 wt.% for which a good compromise in terms of films ductility, barrier properties and seal ability was achieved.

Information technology utilization by agricultural entrepreneurs in Ganjam district, Odisha

Information technology is considered one of the most important modern tools for the success of agricultural business, especially for entrepreneurs. Based on this premise, this study aimed to investigate the factors influencing its utilization among agricultural entrepreneurs in the Ganjam District of Odisha, India. Data was collected from a purposive sample of 48 agricultural entrepreneurs, including mushroom cultivation, cashew processing, and egg layer business. A questionnaire was used, consisting of questions formulated by the researcher and a group of experts in agricultural. A four-point scale was used to obtain a value indicating the level of success in using information technology. Descriptive statistics such as frequency, percentage, and standard deviation were applied to determine the classification of study variables, while multiple linear regression analysis was employed to identify the key factors influencing the utilization of information technology among agricultural entrepreneurs. The results revealed the presence of three independent variables that significantly affect the dependent variable at a significance level of 5%. These variables include (X3) knowledge, (X10) availability of technical support and training for implementing information technology, and (X13) environmental factors, all of which have a positive impact on the dependent variable (Y). The study may provide key principles for the development of information technology utilization among agricultural entrepreneurs, offering a set of suggestions for researchers and policymakers regarding needs analysis to support entrepreneurs in Ganjam, which can be generalized to include other states in Odisha.

Occupational Health Problems among Workers of Cashew Processing Units in Kollam District, Kerala.

The cashew processing industry plays a vital role in supporting the livelihoods of a large number of individuals in southern Kerala. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the prevalence of occupational health problems and associated factors among cashew workers. This cross-sectional survey was conducted among 360 cashew workers. Socio-demographics, musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), respiratory symptoms, and dermatological problems were collected through a scheduled interview. Log binomial regression analysis was done. The prevalence of MSDs, chronic lung diseases (CLDs), and dermatological problems were 55.8%, 18.9%, and 47.5%, respectively. Female workers and workers with a lower education level were significantly more likely to report MSDs. Male workers and those with more years of employment were significantly more likely to report CLDs. Workers in the shelling and peeling section were significantly more likely to report dermatological problems. Targeted interventions to improve the occupational health of cashew workers are needed.

A Study on Technological Advancements in Cashew Processing Machines in India

This article theoretically analyses about the “A Study on Technological Advancements in Cashew Processing Machines in India.” In addition to being a significant cash crop, cashew is one of the most valuable processed nuts traded on the world's commodity markets. Cashew is grown on 9,23,000 hectares of land in India, where it produces 613,000 MT and has a productivity of 0.7 MT/ha. With a 32.3% share, Maharashtra leads the nation in cashew output. For its kernels, it is extensively grown across the tropics. It is produced in a few plain regions of Karnataka and Madhya Pradesh as well as on the east and west coasts of India. In Maharashtra, productivity is shown to be the highest. With a 25.52% global output share, India is the world's biggest cashew producer. About 230 kg (23%) are created for every metric ton of raw cashew seed produced and processed in India. This study employed frameworks such as the SWOT and PEST analyses to analyses market trends. Though India is one of the leading producers of cashew, still they were using one of the traditional methods to processing the cashew nuts. The study enhances about the marketing strategies which should be followed to develop the cashew processing machines in India.

Biochar from cashew residue enhances silicon adsorption and reduces cohesion and mechanical resistance at meso- and micro-structural scales of soil with cohesive character

Horizons with cohesive character impose physical restraints on plant development, particularly when it occurs near the soil surface. Howbeit, the genesis of cohesive character in soils is associated with temporary and reversible cementation by amorphous silica. Thus, we hypothesized that the biochar obtained from residues from cashew processing would improve soil porosity and promotes silicon adsorption, consequently reducing cohesion and mechanical resistance while improving the physical quality of soils with cohesive character. We collected soil samples with deformed structure from the Bt1 horizon of a Typic Haplustult with cohesive character in northeast Brazil. These samples were used to prepare test substrates by combining air-dried and sieved soil samples and biochar at application rates of 0, 5, 10, 20, and 40 Mg ha−1. All the samples in each treatment underwent ten cycles of wetting and drying (one cycle per week) to allow the manifestation of the cohesive character. Subsequently, we assessed silicon adsorption capacity, soil bulk density, porosity, soil penetration resistance, tensile strength, and rheometric properties. In the 5 and 10 Mg ha−1 doses, the physical quality remained like the control treatment (0 Mg ha−1). The 20 and 40 Mg ha−1 doses resulted in increased soil silicon adsorption capacity (+7.6 and +15.3%, respectively), total porosity (+2.0 and +1.9%, respectively), and macroporosity (+14.6 and +15.3%, respectively), compared to the treatment without biochar. Conversely, these doses led to a reduction in soil bulk density (-0.1 and −0.8%, respectively), penetration resistance (-16.2 and −16.1%, respectively), tensile strength (-24.2 and −36.5%, respectively), deformation at the end of the linear viscoelastic range (-6.3 and −10.5%, respectively), shear stress at the end of the linear viscoelastic range (-16.4 and −26.9%, respectively), and maximum shear stress (-13.7 and −22.3%, respectively). In conclusion, the application of biochar improved soil porosity and promoted silicon adsorption, thus reducing the bulk density, cohesion, and mechanical resistance, enhancing the physical quality of soils with cohesive character, especially for doses of 20 and 40 Mg ha−1.

Unlocking the potential of Tanzania's cashew processing industry: A comparative analysis with Côte d’Ivoire and Mozambique

Cashew processing is a vital contributor to economic growth in Tanzania, renowned for its cashew nut production. However, despite the country’s historical prominence in cashew production, only 5% of raw cashews undergo local processing, resulting in substantial economic losses. This paper explores the challenges and opportunities within Tanzania’s cashew processing industry, focusing on limited local processing capacity, inefficient tools, raw material availability, market access, and government support. Comparative insights from Côte d’Ivoire and Mozambique further enrich our understanding of the cashew sector. It recommends increasing local processing capacity, enhancing technical expertise through training, ensuring a reliable supply of high-quality raw materials, improving market access via information systems, and strengthening government support with tailored policy frameworks. Notably, the paper emphasizes regional collaboration among African cashew-producing nations as a crucial strategy for collective growth and knowledge exchange. By drawing upon their experiences, this study aims to provide guidance for policymakers, industry stakeholders, and investors to revitalize and sustain Tanzania’s cashew processing sector.

Challenges encountered by cashew nut processing industry

Tamandu has emerged as one of India's premier cashew nut producers and processors. The thriving export potential and robust local demand have fueled the rapid expansion of the cashew industry in this region. With approximately 675 cashew nut processing units scattered across Tamil Nadu, these establishments have primarily embraced labor-intensive operations, offering valuable employment opportunities to rural communities. However, it's worth noting that only 576 processing units have managed to contribute data for this study. The collected data predominantly revolves around challenges related to various facets of cashew nut processing, including activity-based challenges, issues concerning workers' families, social problems, worker hygiene challenges, hurdles encountered within the processing units, as well as difficulties tied to workers' wages and benefits. Furthermore, the investigation into occupational health, ergonomic considerations, and the development of ergonomically designed work equipment in small and medium-scale cashew nut processing units in Tamil Nadu has remained largely unexplored. As a result, this research seeks to shed light on the risk of musculoskeletal issues prevalent in these cashew processing units, aiming to address an important aspect of workers' well-being in this vital industry.

Examining marketing approaches and overcoming challenges in the cashew nut processing sector of tamil nadu: a comprehensive review

Tamil Nadu stands as one of India's leading cashew nut producers and processors, driven by robust export potential and domestic demand. In Cuddalore district alone, approximately 675 cashew nut processing units are scattered across the region. These mills predominantly rely on manual labor, offering substantial employment prospects for rural communities. However, the well-being and health of the workers in these processing units are often bargained for the old-style tools and paraphernalia. Remarkably, research regarding occupational health and the ergonomic aspects of work equipment within these SM (Small & Medium) cashew nut dispensation units in Cuddalore district has been conspicuously scarce. This study seeks to evaluate the existing working conditions concerning the musculoskeletal health of cashew workers in these units, shedding light on an underexplored area. The researcher has meticulously gathered and analyzed 92 reviews pertaining to cashew nut processing units, categorizing 35 of them into seven key themes: the concept of cashew processing units, the cost associated with processing units, perceived industry pressures and challenges, compatibility and customer influence, digital marketing strategies and mediums, financial performance within cashew nut processing units, and the acceptance of technology models.

Development of cashew apple bagasse based bio-composites for high-performance applications with the concept of zero waste production

This study suggests a comprehensive concept for using waste generated from the cashew processing industry in the production of some functional and high-performance bio-composites. Cashew apple bagasse (CAB), cashew nut shell (CNS), and cardanol were used as primary feedstock. Cardanol was used to synthesize cardanol-based benzoxazines that were used as resins. CAB was used to prepare carbon and ash that were used as filler materials in preparing the composites. Thus, three ingredients (resins, carbon, and ash) were obtained, while the CAB and CNS were used directly as feedstock. Firstly, a high-performance CAB-filled panel board composite was prepared as an acoustic barrier, and sound absorption coefficients value of 0.8 at 3000 Hz and 0.7 at 6400 Hz were achieved. Secondly, CNS and CAB were used at different ratios to prepare fuel briquettes, and findings reveal that the briquettes have a calorific value and an ash content of 5225 cal/g and 7%, respectively. Lastly, CAB, carbon, and ash were employed as filler materials in the production of a friction composite, which was found to have a friction coefficient and wear rate of 0.59 and 0.77 × 10−10 cm3/Nm respectively. Overall, this study suggests the concept of zero waste production, as waste from the cashew processing industry was successfully used to produce composite materials for use as acoustic barriers and fuel briquettes. While the ash produced as a waste after using fuel briquettes served as filler material in the production of a robust friction composite.

Economic Analysis Of Cashew Cultivation In Tamil Nadu: A Micro Level Empirical Study

Agriculture is the primary sector of our country giving livelihood and employment opportunities for vast majority of Indian rural population. India was the first country to hit the world market with cashew kernels and it was shed who pioneered cashew processing as an industry. Even though not much is known of the origins of the industry, it has been recorded that cashew processing on a commercial scale was first started in the mid 1920s. India is the third largest producer and exporter of cashew in the world next only to Vietnam and Nigeria.. The average yield of all these varieties is 8 to 10 kg. Of cashew per tree, i.e. one tone of nuts per hectare. Therefore, the yield per cashew tree is estimated at 8 to 15 kg. Cashew plantation of Cuddalore District has been considered to be the key source of global gardens for VRI 3 cashew graft production in Tamilnadu and Panruti Cashews have unique demand in the world market for its nut quality. The present study tries to analyse the aspects of cashew cultivation in one of the Cashew intensive area of Tamilnadu, Panruti Taluk, Manadikuppam Revenue Village. The specific objectives are to know the social economic status of farmers in the study area; to analyse the farm size wise and cost wise and returns of cashew cultivation in the study area to explore the problems faced by farmers in the Cashew cultivation in the study area and to suggest possible policy measures for strengthening cashew cultivation in the study area. It is very obvious that he State has taken all efforts to increase agricultural production, enhance productivity and explore the untapped potential in general and cashew cultivation in particular. To conclude, to encourage the Cashew Economy further in the study region a combined efforts by the Department of Horticulture, Rural Development Agencies, Educational and Research Organisations, Service Organisations like Lions Club, Rotary Club, Jeycees etc functioning in the study area by arranging Farmers Awareness Campaigns, Exhibitions, Extension Activities etc, are needed and it is a fond hope that which can ensure for flourishing the Cashew cultivation in the study region

Cashew By-Product as a Functional Substrate for the Development of Probiotic Fermented Milk.

Cashew (Anacardium occidentale) processing generates a by-product (CB) with potential for health benefits and that could be a favorable ingredient to be added to a probiotic food matrix. This study aimed to assess the functional attributes of CB in fermented milk with a probiotic and a starter culture using in vitro gastrointestinal conditions. Two formulations were tested, without CB (Control Formulation-CF) and with CB (Test Formulation-TF), and the two strains most adapted to CB, the probiotic Lacticaseibacillus paracasei subsp. paracasei F19® and the starter Streptococcus thermophilus ST-M6®, were chosen to be fermented in the CF and the TF. During a 28-day period of refrigeration (4 °C), both strains used in the CF and TF maintained a population above 8.0 log CFU/mL. Strains cultured in the TF had a significant increase in total phenolic compounds and greater antioxidant potential during their shelf life, along with improved survival of F19® after in vitro-simulated gastrointestinal conditions. Our study revealed the promising potential of CB in the probiotic beverage. The CB-containing formulation (TF) also exhibited higher phenolic content and antioxidant activity. Furthermore, it acted as a protector for bacteria during gastrointestinal simulation, highlighting its potential as a healthy and sustainable product.

Cashew nut shell oil as a potential feedstock for biodiesel production: An overview.

Biodiesel outperforms diesel in emissions and engine performance. They burn efficiently in diesel engines and are eco-friendly. Since cashew nut shell liquid (CNSO) is waste, commercial biodiesel production from it should be profitable. CNSO is cheap and can reduce cashew processing factory waste. From cashew kernels, CNSL is extracted using various mechanical, thermal, and solvent extraction techniques. This article examines current research into using cashew nutshell liquid biodiesel (CNSLBD) in diesel engines. The work also discusses Indian biodiesel demand, availability, export information, life cycle cost analysis, cost economics of per hectare yield, Indian government initiative of CNSO. This review also evaluates the viability of this fuel as an alternative energy source. CNSLBD is a prospective alternative fuel that has the potential to benefit both the cashew nut industry and the energy industry. In addition to this, the study examines the procedures for extracting CNSO. According to the findings of the study, CNSO is a prospective alternative fuel that has the potential to benefit both the cashew nut industry and the energy industry.

Cashew processing in Ghana – A case for infant industry support?

West Africa produces almost half of the world's cashew nuts. With the domestic cashew processing industry still in its infancy, however, most of it is exported as raw material and processed in India and Vietnam. In Ghana, this is provoking discussions about market interventions to support domestic processing. Since different price policies have diverging implications for farmers and processors, the choice of the policy instrument leads to conflicts of interest between the two groups. In this study, we analyse the short- and long-term economic impacts of enhancing cashew processing through (i.) a temporary export tax on raw cashew nuts, (ii.) a temporary subsidy to cashew processors, and (iii.)a temporary export tax on raw cashew nuts, with government revenues passed on to cashew growers. For this purpose, we develop a partial equilibrium model for the Ghanaian cashew market including the processing from raw cashew nuts to kernels. We find that in the short run, all price policies lead to a substantial increase in processing at the expense of net welfare. We argue, however, that the sector may experience productivity gains through learning by doing and thus, after price policies are phased out, stick to its increased level of output such that short-term welfare losses could be recouped. Therefore, temporarily introduced price policies could help the infant cashew processing industry to grow up, promote the development of the domestic cashew sector, and be welfare-enhancing in the long run. A subsidy to processors is the most appropriate option to achieve this.

Physical and mental morbidity pattern among female cashew workers in Kollam district, Kerala

Background: The cashew processing is a labour-intensive work with a significant number of female workers. Majority belong to low socioeconomic status and so they join this sector to meet up their daily living. Long hours of work, greater work load and increased family burden lead to increase in morbidity status among workers. As comorbidities gets unnoticed and ignored, there is occurrence of early morbidity as well as mortality in these working groups and this is one of the major concerns. Methods: Cross-sectional study was conducted among female cashew workers in Kollam district, Kerala. Data was collected using interviewer administered questionnaire using stratified multistage cluster sampling method. Seven workers each were selected from shelling, peeling and grading processing units from eight private and two government factories. Data entered in micrososft excel, coded and analyzed using SPSS software version 25. Descriptive statistics for qualitative data were expressed as frequency and percentages and quantitative data as mean and standard deviation Results: Out of 210 participants, 95.4% workers were suffering from one or the other morbidities. Arthralgia was the major concern followed by allergy, hypertension and thyroid. Prehypertensive state was found to be present among all participants. Anxiety noticed in majority of participants. Conclusions: Frequent medical check-ups, recreational activities and health education sessions needs to be implemented in all cashew factories to lessen the morbidity and to up bring the health status of workers.

Characterization of slow pyrolysis products from three different cashew wastes

A huge amount of waste is generated by the cashew processing industries. This study aims to valorise these cashew wastes generated at different levels while processing cashew nuts in factories. The feedstocks include cashew skin, cashew shell and cashew shell de-oiled cake. Slow pyrolysis of these three different cashew wastes was performed at varying temperatures (300-500℃) at a heating rate of 10℃/min in a lab scale glass-tubular reactor under inert atmosphere of nitrogen with flow rate of 50 ml/min. The total bio-oil yield for cashew skin and the de-oiled shell cake was 37.1 and 48.6 wt% at 400℃ and 450℃, respectively. However, the maximum bio-oil yield obtained for cashew shell waste was 54.9 wt% at 500℃. The bio-oil was analysed using GC-MS, FTIR, and NMR. Along with the various functionalities observed in bio-oil through GC-MS, phenolics were observed to have maximum area% for all the feedstocks at all temperatures. At all the slow pyrolysis temperatures, cashew skin led to more biochar yield (40 wt%) as compared to cashew de-oiled cake (26 wt%) and cashew shell waste (22 wt%). Biochar was characterized by various analytical tools such as XRD, FTIR, Proximate analyser, CHNS, Py-GC/MS and SEM. Characterization of biochar revealed its carbonaceous and amorphous nature along with porosity.

Marketing Strategy in Increasing Sales Apeng Cashew Trading Business Central Buton District

The aim of the study was to find out how the marketing strategy was in increasing sales of Apeng Cashew Cashew Trading Business (UD) in Lombe, Gu District, Central Buton Regency. The method used is observation and interviews. The method of data analysis is descriptive qualitative. Based on the results of research and discussion it can be concluded that the marketing strategy of UD. Cashew Cashew Apeng in Lombe Gu District Central Buton Regency which consists of product, price, place, promotion, people, process and physical evidence can increase sales in 2021 Rp. 128,500,000, - increasing in 2022 by Rp. 173,300,000,-. The suggestions given are (1) So that UD. Apeng cashew nuts in Lombe, Gu sub-district, Central Buton regency, in the promotion strategy can use brochures that can provide information about cashew products and use signboards at cashew processing and selling places so that the sales obtained can continue to increase. (2) So that future researchers can add research variables so that they can enrich research results.

Analisis Keuntungan Produk Olahan Kacang Mete Skala Rumah Tangga

Cashew nuts are one of the agricultural commodities that is primarily consumed as a producer of raw materials for industry (Basuki, 2005). Cashew nut (Anancardium occidentalle L) is a long-lived crop with high economic value. Karangnongko Hamlet is a cashew production center in Sumberagung Plosloklaten Kediri Village. The cashew processing business ready for consumption is currently not widely developed in Sumberagung Village. Farmers only sell cashew logs (untreated and separated from the shell). Cashew can be processed on a small-scale basis at home to increase the product's value and selling price. The purpose of this study is to identify the benefits of processed cashew products on a household level. The methods used include cost analysis, Break Even Point, and R/C Ratio analysis. The results showed that household-scale cashew processed products are profitable and feasible to run with an R/C Ratio value 1.44. Product marketing is also carried out through online media and e-commerce. This effort was made to increase the added value and selling price of cashew products as well as the income of the local community.

Unlocking the Potential of Tanzania's Cashew Processing Industry: A Comparative Analysis with Ivory Coast and Mozambique

Unlocking the Potential of Tanzania's Cashew Processing Industry: A Comparative Analysis with Ivory Coast and Mozambique

Structural, molecular and thermal properties of cardanol based monomers and polymers synthesized via atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP)

Cardanol, a byproduct of the cashew processing industry, has been widely studied feeedstock for sustainable monomers and polymers. In this article, the Atom Transfer Radical Polymerization (ATRP) of three radically polymerizable monomers, namely, cardanyl acrylate (CA), hydrogenated cardanyl acrylate (PA) and hydrogenated cardanyl methacrylate (PMA), was studied. The monomers as well as the polymers were structurally characterized and studied by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) to understad their thermal behavior. The PA monomer showed melting (Tm) at 35 °C and crsytallization (Tc) at −3.27 °C. The synthesized polymer shows Tm of 16.5 °C and the Tc increased to 7.2 °C. In PMA monomer, the Tm was observed at 15.21 °C and Tc at −11 °C and the correponding values for the polymer decreasing to 1 °C and −18 °C, respectively. The coressponding transitions of CA monomer and its polymer were broad and less defined. The homopoymerization of CA and PMA yielded good conversions but the PA polymer yield was low under identical conditions, probably due to the higher monomer crystallinity of PA. The effect of different ATRP ligands, viz, pentamethyldiethylenetriamine (PMDETA) and bipyridine (dNbpy), on the conversion, molecular weight and polydispersity was also investigated.