Enhancing and Adding Value to Processed Namwa Banana Products through Innovation and Technology: A Case Study of the Banana Processing Group in Pak Chom District, Loei Province

Abstract

            This research aimed to: 1) study the current state of production and processing of Nam Wa bananas by the banana processing group in Pak Chom District, Loei Province, and 2) enhance and add value to Nam Wa banana products through innovation and technology in the case of the banana processing group in Pak Chom District, Loei Province. A mixed-methods research approach was employed, utilizing questionnaires, interviews, and satisfaction surveys. The sample consisted of 148 individuals interested in joining the organic banana powder processing group in Pak Chom District, Loei Province. The findings revealed that, the formation of the organic banana powder production group, which received knowledge training and technology transfer in banana processing, resulted in the development of three prototype organic banana powder products: sachet packaging, jar packaging, and capsule form. The overall satisfaction levels regarding the organic banana powder products and the technology transfer to the organic banana powder processing group were at a high level. The technologies that assisted in organic banana powder processing included: banana slicing equipment, solar drying systems, and fine grinding machines. These technologies enabled the group to enhance and add value to organic banana powder, creating added value and generating income. The group developed an understanding of business management methods to create added value and generate income throughout the entire supply chain—from upstream, midstream, to downstream operations.