•Innovative Project at Kiambu National Polytechnic Showcases the Untapped Potential of Avocado Seeds
Avocados are widely celebrated for their rich, creamy texture and numerous health benefits, yet their large seeds are often discarded as waste.
However, students at Kiambu National Polytechnic (KINAP) have found a groundbreaking way to transform these seemingly useless seeds into valuable food and beverage products with significant nutritional and economic potential.
The initiative was showcased during KINAP’s Open Day exhibition, where students demonstrated how avocado seeds can be repurposed into nutritious porridge, an aphrodisiac tea, and even alcohol.
This project highlights the growing trend of sustainability in food production and the untapped potential of natural resources.
Turning Waste into Nutrition: Avocado Seed Porridge
Mary Wanini, a student involved in the project, detailed the process of converting avocado seeds into a flour supplement.
“First, we collect, wash, and dry the avocado seeds. Drying can be done using a solar dryer, a dehydrator, or by sun-drying. Once dried, we crush the seeds into a fine powder and mix it with other flours like sorghum or millet to make porridge. This porridge is highly nutritious and suitable for all ages,” Wanini explained.
Avocado seeds are rich in antioxidants, dietary fiber, and bioactive compounds that promote digestion and boost immunity.
By incorporating them into porridge, the students have created a product that enhances nutritional value while reducing food waste.
Romantic Tea: A Natural Aphrodisiac
Another innovative product developed by the students is Romantic Tea, a blend of crushed avocado seed, citrus, and tea leaves. The name is inspired by the tea’s alleged aphrodisiac properties.
“It’s called Romantic Tea because it acts as an aphrodisiac, with properties that can arouse and energize,” said Wanini.
While scientific research on avocado seed tea is still emerging, the tea’s components—antioxidants, flavonoids, and polyphenols—are known to support heart health and improve circulation, which could contribute to its energizing effects.
Avocado Seed Alcohol: A Scientific Breakthrough
In a surprising scientific feat, the students have also successfully produced alcohol from avocado seeds.
The process involves breaking down the seed’s polysaccharides into simple sugars using the enzyme amylase, followed by fermentation. The result is an alcoholic beverage with a unique composition.
This development showcases the versatility of avocado seeds, proving they can serve not only as a functional food ingredient but also as a potential raw material for the beverage industry.
The Science Behind the Innovation
The avocado seed accounts for approximately 13 to 18% of the fruit’s total weight and is packed with beneficial compounds such as catechins and procyanidins.
A 2019 study published in the Journal of Food Science found that these compounds can help reduce inflammation, improve heart health, and potentially combat cancer.
Dr. Sharon Madzima, a nutritionist and food scientist, elaborated on the benefits of avocado seeds, stating:
“The avocado seed is a rich source of bioactive compounds that can support cardiovascular health by lowering cholesterol and improving blood circulation. Emerging research also suggests it may help regulate blood sugar, benefiting individuals managing diabetes.”
Towards Commercial Production
Under the guidance of Food and Beverage lecturer Obadiah Wanjohi, the students have successfully developed these innovative products and are now seeking certification from the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) to scale up production.
By repurposing avocado seeds into nutritious food, aromatic tea, and alcohol, the students are not only reducing food waste but also creating new economic opportunities.
Their work underscores the importance of sustainability, innovative food solutions, and maximizing the use of natural resources.
As the global demand for natural health products and sustainable solutions continues to rise, the ingenuity of these Kiambu students serves as an inspiring example of how discarded materials can be transformed into valuable, marketable products.
Share This Post