Kerala Agricultural University to transfer chocolate-making technology to farmer group

Kerala Agricultural University (KAU), Vellanikkara, has officially transferred the advanced chocolate-making technology developed by its Cocoa Research Centre to the Kothamangalam Agriculture Producer Company. The strategic technology transfer aims to empower local growers and strengthen farmer-led agro-processing enterprises across the region.

The technology was formally handed over to Sunil Cyriac, Chief Executive Officer of the producer company, by Latha A, Head of the Research Division, during a dedicated institutional event. University representatives highlighted that this move is part of ongoing efforts to bridge the gap between academic research and practical commercial farming applications.

According to Minimol J S, Professor and Head of the Cocoa Research Centre and Principal Investigator of the technology, the initiative was undertaken specifically to enhance the market value of cocoa farmers’ produce and to foster vibrant cocoa-based entrepreneurial activities at the grassroots level.

Officials noted that taking proprietary technologies developed within KAU directly to farmer groups and processing ventures reinforces the broader approach of converting raw agricultural commodities into high-value consumer products. By retaining processing capabilities within farming communities, growers can capture a larger share of the final market value.

The transfer of chocolate-making technology to Kothamangalam Agriculture Producer Company is expected to create robust new opportunities for farmer-led value-added enterprises in the cocoa sector. Minimol added that the Cocoa Research Centre will continue to provide comprehensive technical support and guidance to the recipient enterprise until the initiative achieves complete self-sufficiency.