Estudio de factibilidad para la producción de harina de banano orgánica a partir de rechazo de una productora y exportadora ubicada en la ciudad de Machala

Abstract

The banana sector is the main economic activity of the province, especially in the city of Machala, being recognized for its agricultural production, especially in banana production. Although banana exports follow strict quality standards, a considerable volume of rejected fruit is generated. Despite not meeting export criteria, this fruit is still suitable for human consumption. This presents an opportunity to take advantage of rejects as raw material in the production of banana flour, which would generate additional income for producers. The objective of this research work is to evaluate the technical and economic feasibility of implementing a system to produce banana flour from the rejects of a producer and exporter in the city of Machala. To do this, the current situation of the company, the production processes and the volume of fruit considered as rejects were first analyzed. A market study was then carried out to determine the potential demand for the product. Then, a technical analysis of the infrastructure necessary for processing and an economic analysis was carried out that includes the initial costs and the expected income from the sale of banana flour. The results obtained demonstrate that the farms generate a significant amount of rejects suitable for the project and that the existing infrastructure can be adapted for flour production, demonstrating that the project is financially profitable over time. In conclusion, this study provides compelling evidence that establishing a banana flour production system from rejects is a viable and beneficial measure, not only from a technical and economic point of view, but also from an environmental sustainability and reduction of agricultural waste.