A TEAM of researchers from the College of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences of the University of the Philippines-Visayas has been working to raise awareness on the potential economic benefits of utilizing seafood processing by-products and wastes.

Led by CFOS dean Prof. Encarnacion Emilia Yap, the team recently conducted a pre-testing of practical guidebooks in Brgy. Nasidman, Ajuy, Iloilo, a coastal municipality that is famous for its fishing and agriculture.

“The undertaking is in line with the implementation of the project on “Fish Processing By-Product Utilization in the Philippines: Awareness Raising and Capacity Development,” that is funded by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. It aims to provide additional income for fishing communities and to reduce waste,” UPV said.

The team conducted a training-workshop in January for seafood processors in the province of Negros Occidental on the processing of sardine and crab by-products and waste to produce value-added products.

Community fishing processors from Bacolod City and the municipalities of Himamaylan, Pontevedra and Binalbagan were trained on how to produce fish silage, a liquid product made from sardines that can be used as a fertilizer and alternative to fish meal.

Meanwhile, Blue Swimming Crab processors from the municipalities of Manapla, E.B. Magalona, and Cadiz City were taught how to produce calcium concentrate from BSC by-products.

“The project team conducted hands-on activities and provided special lectures on post-harvest fisheries transfer technology; food quality, safety, and waste management in coastal communities; and good manufacturing practices in producing the aforementioned value-added products,” UPV said.