2024 Research | SDG 12 – Responsible Consumption and Production

Fruits and vegetable are recognized as fundamental source of nutrients. The research study was conducted to determine the acceptability, marketability and nutritive value of locally fruit wine and mixed juice drink. The 9-point hedonic scale and 7-point hedonic scale was used to determine the acceptability level of mixed juice drink of wines and 5-point Likert scale for marketability of the wine and juice.

The analyzation results of one-way classification of the Analysis of variance (ANOVA) showed that pomelo wine has a grand weighted mean ranging from 6.68 to 6.80. The turnip wine 6.74 to 6.75, mango wine showed varied ratings in which food experts (grand weighted mean = 6.51) and community people (6.50) and FSM students (6.36). The pineapple wine, has grand weighted mean score ranging from 6.61 to 6.74. This indicates that all the wines are acceptable in three group of respondents. Lastly, for the pipino wine, it received the lowest rating in which it received a rating ranging from 5.99 to 6.36 categorized as only acceptable. For mixed juice drink receives very acceptable in terms of appearance, color, aroma, and taste and extremely acceptable in terms of texture. For the marketability of the study, it is revealed that it has very high potential in the market.

The study addresses the growing consumer awareness and negative perceptions surrounding processed foods by innovating healthier and more acceptable alternatives using locally sourced ingredients. Conducted in response to findings by the International Food Information Council, which indicated that 43% of primary grocery shoppers view processed foods unfavorably, this research focuses on developing innovative processed meats. Using banana stem as a natural flavor enhancer for longganisa and substituting traditional ingredients in tocino with pineapple wine and calamansi extract, the study employs a descriptive experimental method to evaluate product acceptability. Respondents, including food and service management faculty, community members, and food producers, assessed the products based on appearance, color, aroma, taste, and texture using a seven-point Hedonic rating scale. The analysis, using weighted mean, aims to identify nutritional content and determine shelf life.

Results shows that the acceptability of innovative processed meats, specifically tocino and longganisa, using locally sourced ingredients to address consumer concerns about processed foods are well-received by the consumers. The sensory attributes of appearance, color, aroma, taste, and texture were assessed by three groups: FSM students, food experts, and community members. Tocino was highly rated across all sensory criteria, with community members giving the highest overall acceptability score (Grand Weighted Mean = 6.20). Longganisa also received positive ratings, particularly from FSM students (Grand Weighted Mean = 6.03), although food experts rated its appearance and texture as slightly acceptable. The study demonstrates that both tocino and longganisa are well-received by consumers, with potential for market success. The findings highlight the importance of natural flavor enhancements and minimal processing in meeting consumer expectations for healthier processed food options. This approach not only offers a sustainable model for food innovation but also supports local economies through the use of indigenous raw materials.

This study evaluates the acceptability of three-juice drinks formulated from slender amaranth, lemongrass, and Philippine lime, focusing on sensory attributes such as appearance/color, aroma/odor, taste/flavor, and texture. Three different treatments were assessed by respondents using a 9-point hedonic scale. The results indicate high acceptability across all treatments, with mean scores ranging from 7.82 to 8.61, all falling within the “Like Very Much” category. Treatment 3 emerged as the most preferred formulation, achieving the highest mean scores for appearance/color (M = 8.46), aroma/odor (M = 8.44), and texture (M = 8.61).

One-way ANOVA revealed significant differences in taste/flavor (F = 5.830, p = 0.004) and texture (F = 4.254, p = 0.016), favoring Treatments 2 and 3 over Treatment 1. Post hoc analysis using Tukey’s multiple comparison test confirmed these differences, with Treatment 1 rated significantly lower in taste and texture compared to Treatments 2 and 3.

The findings suggest that specific mixture ratios enhance sensory properties, particularly for Treatments 2 and 3. The high acceptability ratings indicate strong potential for these formulations as commercially viable products. Treatment 3 should be prioritized for further refinement and promotion as a premium offering within the market. The study provides valuable insights for product development and marketing strategies aimed at enhancing the appeal of functional beverages, ultimately contributing to their success in a competitive market.

The study aimed to determine the nutritive value and shelf life of slender amaranth, lemongrass, and Philippine lime aqueous extract mixed juice drink. The product consisted of three treatments: Treatment 1 – 150 grams of slender amaranth, 100 grams of lemongrass, and 200 grams of Philippine lime; Treatment 2 – 100 grams of slender amaranth, 150 grams of lemongrass, and 200 grams of Philippine lime; and Treatment 3 – 50 grams of slender amaranth, 200 grams of lemongrass, and 200 grams of Philippine lime.

The nutritional value of the study underwent a process and assessment conducted by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) III and found that there are ____________________________________________________. The study revealed that mixed juice drinks stored at room temperature have a longer shelf life. The results showed that the mixed juice drink has strong market potential.

The study aimed to determine the marketability of Slender Amaranth and Lemon Grass with Philippine Lime. The product consisted of slender amaranth, lemongrass, and Philippine lime with different formulations. The descriptive-experimental method of research was used, with the survey questionnaire as the main data-gathering instrument. The study used a five-point Likert rating scale to evaluate marketability. The statistical tools used in the study were weighted mean and ANOVA.

The findings indicate that all treatments are perceived positively across the respondent groups. However, there are no statistically significant differences in consumer demand, supply availability, or production costs among the three treatments, as all p-values exceed the conventional threshold of 0.05. Lastly, Treatment 3 was the most favored formulation due to its higher mean scores across all evaluation criteria.

The study aimed to determine the marketability of coconut curd macaroons. The product consisted of 250-gram, 375-gram, and 500-gram proportions of coconut curd. The descriptive-experimental method of research was used, with the survey questionnaire as the main data-gathering instrument. The study used a five-point Likert rating scale in evaluating the product’s marketability in terms of production cost, supply availability, and consumer demand. The respondents of the study were twenty (20) Food and Service Management students, twenty (20) food experts, and twenty (20) community members. The statistical tools used in the study were weighted mean and ANOVA.

The findings revealed that the marketability of the coconut curd (latik) macaroons across different marketability criteria is strongly accepted by respondents. For consumer demand, results showed a statistically significant difference in the marketability of macaroons. However, for supply availability, results revealed no statistically significant difference in the marketability of macaroons. Lastly, production cost results displayed a small but significant difference in the marketability of macaroons. Thus, based on the results of this study, the 375-gram formulation shows a more consistent marketability profile; therefore, it was the most preferred measurement of coconut curd (latik) macaroons.

The study aimed to determine the acceptability of banana cake, carrot cake, and macaroons. The experimental method of research was used, with the survey questionnaire as the main data-gathering instrument. The study used the nine-point Hedonic rating scale in evaluating the product’s acceptability in terms of appearance, color, aroma, taste, and texture. Twenty (20) Food and Service Management students, twenty (20) food experts, and twenty (20) community members—a total of sixty (60) respondents—participated in the study. The statistical tools used were weighted mean and standard deviation.

Results of the study revealed that the macaroons had the highest acceptability and consistent ratings across all respondents, indicating that coconut macaroons have the potential to be a viable and appealing local product in the market. Meanwhile, the acceptability of the banana cake was also very high, suggesting that it could be a dependable option. However, regarding the carrot cake, refinement and adjustments are needed to meet the community’s preferences while maintaining the positive perceptions of the FSM students and food experts. In terms of nutritional content, all baked products

The study aimed to determine the nutritive value and shelf life of coconut curd (latik) macaroons. The product consisted of 250-gram, 375-gram, and 500-gram proportions of macaroons with coconut curd. The nutritional value of the study underwent a process and assessment conducted by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) III and found that there are ____________________________________________________. The study revealed that mixed juice drinks stored at room temperature have a longer shelf life. The results showed that coconut curd macaroons are acceptable and have strong market potential.

This research focused on the design, optimization, and integration of a biowaste processing machine (biodigester) and a 16 kW solar photovoltaic (PV) system to create a sustainable and efficient solution for converting agroforestry waste into compost. The biodigester operates through aerobic decomposition, utilizing a control system that monitors and regulates temperature, humidity, and soil moisture to ensure efficient compost production. This system includes sensors, a microcontroller, and a Human-Machine Interface (HMI) for real-time monitoring and control.

The mobile 16 kW solar PV system, comprising 18 high-efficiency monocrystalline panels, converts sunlight into electricity, which is then optimized and stored using a Deye inverter and a high-capacity lithium battery managed by a Battery Management System (BMS) and active balancer. The successful integration of the biodigester and solar PV system resulted in a mobile biowaste processing unit capable of converting agroforestry wastes into organic fertilizers. The system’s mobility, flexibility, and reliance on solar energy ensured efficient and sustainable operation.

Key findings included the production of compost with significant nutrient content (1.68% nitrogen, 0.14% phosphorus, 2.16% potassium, pH 7.12) when using a compost activator, maturing in 20 days. Compost without the activator had higher nitrogen and phosphorus but lower potassium content, maturing in 25 days. This study highlights the benefits of integrating renewable energy with biowaste processing technologies, promoting sustainable agricultural practices and reducing environmental impact.

Corn is the second most significant crop in the Philippines; however, its productivity and sustainability have not been fully optimized. To explore its potential, a field study on the response of Open Pollinated Variety (OPV) Yellow Corn to defoliation and varied amounts of gibberellic acid was conducted at Barangay Union, Cabagan, Isabela. The experiment was laid out in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications. Leaf defoliation served as Factor A, which consisted of no defoliation (A1), three leaves defoliated above the ear (A2), and three leaves defoliated below the ear (A3). The amount of gibberellic acid served as Factor B, which consisted of no GA₃ (B1), 300 ppm (B2), 350 ppm (B3), and 400 ppm (B4).

The OPV Yellow Corn subjected to leaf defoliation and application of varied amounts of GA₃ revealed comparable effects on plant height, diameter, and weight of dehusked ears, stalk diameter, and yield per hectare. However, no defoliation recorded the longest dehusked ears (167.78 mm) and the heaviest biomass weight (497.66 kg), while the application of 350 ppm GA₃ resulted in the heaviest weight of 1000 grains per plot (241.66 g). Moreover, defoliation below the ear with the application of 400 ppm and 350 ppm GA₃ gained the highest net incomes (₱46,368.00 and ₱51,096.00, respectively) and return on investment (76.76% and 83.78%, respectively).

It is therefore recommended that defoliation below the ear, together with the application of GA₃ at 400 ppm, be adopted to promote productivity in humid environments.

We generate a zero-order Bessel beam with a laser beam focused onto an elastomeric replica of a weevil carapace scale. Carapace surface structures are printed on an elastomeric cast cia soft lithography. The output Bessel beam exhibits the expected properties of non-diffraction over a propagation range of 30 cm. The width of the central spot at a propagation distance of 25 cm is 296:8μm, corresponding to a replicated weevil scale with a diameter of 128.6±7.02μm,acting as an annular slit. Self healing of the beam after encountering a wire obstruction is also observed.

The study aimed to compare the profitability of small-scale monoculture and diversified yellow corn production farms in Cabagan, Isabela. It sought to characterize the socio- demographic profile of farmers, compare their farming practices, and determine profitability. The research was conducted through house-to -house survey of 30 farmers engaged in monoculture and 30 farmers practicing diversified farming. The findings revealed that oldr farmers predominantly practice both farming systems, with monoculture farming involving more male farmers (70%) and diversified farming having a higher proportion of female farmers (60%). Most farmers in both systems are married and have educational background ranging from elementary to high school levels. Income levels are generally low, with diversified farming showing a broader income distribution. In term of cultural management practices, monoculture farmers rely more on tractors (80%), mechanical seeders (75%), and herbicides (90%), ehile diversified farmers prefer traditional methods such as manual planting (65%), and araro (plowing)(60%). Monoculture farming incurs higher cash cost due to greater dependenceon fertilizers and labor, leading to potential soil degradation .In contrast, diversified farming employs a variety of water sources and integrates more manual labor in seed preparation, planting, and water management, resulting in lower input costs. The gross profit margin ratio for monoculture farming is 0.82, meaning they retain 0.82 centavos per every peso of income after covering the cost of goods sold, compared to 0.67 centavos for diversified farmers. Monoculture farming offers higher immediate profit margins but demands more input and is more susceptible to soil degradation and pest issues. Diversified farming, while yielding lower profit margins, provides sustatinability benefits through reduced input cost and labor savings.

Rough rice is an unhusked grain of Oryza sativa that contains the hull and glumes. Rough Rice Grading, which consists of a collection of defined procedures and methods for determining quality, is an important part of marketing and process controls. To identify the heat that has been released, IR thermography makes use of the infrared wavelengths of the electromagnetic spectrum. To capture images of the sample, a FLIR One thermal camera was used. The average value of the thermal image’s pixels was used to create a thermal index that served as a representation of each sample. In this study, Evaluation of rough rice grading using thermal imaging technology, infrared thermography and image processing techniques were employed to evaluate the grading of rough rice. The study showed that employing infrared thermography yielded 98.8% accuracy in classifying the rice grades. This technology has been particularly successful at discerning quality characteristics, resulting in more effective sorting and evaluation processes for rice production and quality management. The findings showed that rough rice’s moisture content could be precisely determined using infrared thermography evaluation with spectrum analysis.

BotCoin: Bottle-to-Coin Vending Machine is a technological solution designed to alleviate the growing issue of plastic and can waste in San Mateo, Isabela, Philippines. This clever vending machine converts throwaway bottles/cans into cash, encouraging residents to recycle and promoting environmentally friendly activities. BotCoin aims to make recycling more accessible and engaging by combining technology and financial incentives, particularly among younger generations who are more likely to respond to tech-based solutions.

However, numerous challenges and issues have emerged in waste segregation practices in many communities. In recent years, local government has noticed an alarming rise of plastic bottles/cans garbage in public places, rivers, and landfills. Despite various environmental awareness programs, plastic recycling rates are still low, and inappropriate disposal contributes to environmental damage. Furthermore, the lack of a formal waste management system and readily available recycling programs makes it difficult for residents to actively participate in plastic trash reduction.

The increasing prevalence of plastic bottles and cans in the Philippines, despite existing waste management policies, highlights a significant challenge in environmental sustainability. The country is grappling with a substantial volume of plastic waste, with Quezon City alone generating approximately 262 tons of plastic waste daily, indicative of broader national trends (Sidhu et al., 2021). The Philippines ranks as the third-largest contributor to global mismanaged plastic waste, following China and Indonesia, which underscores the urgency of addressing this issue through effective waste management strategies (Deocaris et al., 2019).

Despite the enactment of the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000 (Republic Act 9003), which aims to enhance waste management practices, the effectiveness of these policies remains questionable. A study indicates that the lack of public awareness and inconsistent policy implementation are critical barriers to successful waste management (Chen et al., 2021).

With this, the BotCoin vending machine provides a localized, small-scale solution that is both inexpensive and feasible for rural areas such as San Mateo, Isabela. This innovation also addressed the gaps in other researches on incentivized recycling systems in developing countries, where economic and infrastructure constraints frequently impede effective waste management techniques.

This also represents a transformative approach to recycling and waste management, aligning individual and collective interests. It empowers individuals to contribute to a sustainable future while earning rewards for their actions. As more of these innovative machines will soon populate our towns and cities, we can look forward to a world where recycling pays dividends for both our wallets and our planet, making the Earth greener and wealthier, one recyclable at a time.

This paper explores the design and construction of a posture brace with integrated backpack functionality. The device is intended to correct posture and reduce the risk of back pain while also serving as a functional, everyday backpack. This dual-purpose solution is aimed at students and professionals who carry heavy loads, seeking to improve spinal alignment and reduce the strain on muscles. Prototyping and testing demonstrate that this design offers significant ergonomic advantages over traditional backpacks.

The researcher explored the design and production of an abdominal brace integrated with utility apparel functionality. The aim of the research is to create a contraption that not only provides abdominal support but also incorporates practical storage solutions, enhancing convenience for users who require additional physical support. Prototyping and evaluation of the product indicate the potential of such hybrid designs to improve both health and productivity in daily life.