1.1 Introduction
Plantain is traditionally grown in West Africa for food and used as part of local staple diets or processed into more durable products such as flour that can be stored for later use. Plantain is a major source of energy for millions of people in these regions. It constitutes the cheapest source of carbohydrate foods in terms of cost per hectare, per tonne and per calorie (Healthline, 2021). Plantain (Musa acuminata) is a major source of carbohydrate in diets of people from Latin America, through most of Africa and from countries of South-east Asia (Marriott and Lancaster, 2007). It is estimated that 60 million people in West Africa derive more than 25% of their carbohydrate intake from plantain (Akubor, 2008).
As a prelude to other parts of this study, this chapter will discuss the background upon which this study was initiated, the statement of problems that led to this study, the Aim and Objectives of the study. Others are Significance of the study, Scope of work, Research hypothesis and questions, Limitations of the Study and Definition of technical terms.
1.2 Background of Study
Nigeria is one of the largest plantain producing countries in the world (FAO, 2006). Despite its prominence, Nigeria does not feature among plantain exporting nations because it produces more for local consumption than for export. National per capita consumption figures show its importance relative to other starch staples (FAO, 1986). However, these figures do not show regional reliance, which is often very important for highly perishable crops that are usually consumed in or near areas of production.
The consumption of plantain has risen tremendously in Nigeria in recent years because of the rapidly increasing urbanization and the great demand for easy and convenient foods by the non-farming urban populations. Besides being the staple for many people in more humid regions, plantain is a delicacy and favored snack for people even in other ecologies. A growing industry, mainly plantain chips, is believed to be responsible for the high demand being experienced now in the country. This study reviews the trend of plantain production, its problems and prospects in Nigeria in the last two decades.
Plantains in the yellow to black stages can be used in sweet dishes steam-looked plantains are considered a nutritious food for infants and the elderly. A ripe plantain is used as food for infants at wearing. Ut is mashed with a pinch of salt and is believed to be more easily digestible (FAOSTAT 2011). Plantains are also dried and grouped into flour it is an important food stuff that constitute, water of about 1062%, proteins 55%, Fat 1.15%, Carbohydrates 81.6% and Ash 3.01%. Dried plantain provider is mixed with a little fennel seed powder and boiled either in milk or water to feed small children till they age of 1yr.
Therefore, in Nigeria where the research was carried out, the activities that was conducted is to know the Production and Determination of Functional Properties of Plantain Flour.
1.3 Statement of Problems
Investigation revealed that high postharvest losses are among the major problems limiting the availability of plantain in the country. As a result of poor handling, postharvest diseases are commonly seen on fruits sold in the country (Bayeri and Nwachukwu, 2003). The fact that most large farms are always located inside the forests, far away from road access, makes the produce to stay on heaps for several days by the road side.
In the late 1980s, transportation of this crop by rail to other non producing regions was common, but the absence of a current rail system and adequate road network to most farms now hampers easy distribution to non producing areas.
1.4 Aim and Objectives of Study
The aim of the study is to determine the production process of functional properties of plantain flour. In achieving this aim, the following specific objectives were laid out as follows:
- To produce plantain flour; and
- To determine the functional properties of plantain flour.
1.5 Significance of Study
This study will be of immense benefit to researchers who intend to know more on this study and can also be used by non-researchers to build more on their research work. This study contributes to knowledge and could serve as a guide for other study.
1.6 Scope of Study
The scope of this research focuses on the Production and Determination of Functional Properties of Plantain Flour in Nigeria.
1.7 Limitations of the Study
During the course of this study, many things militated against its completion, some of which are:
- Time Constraint: The time frame given to accomplish this project was very short due to school academic calendar and it was carried out under pressure which made the researcher not to implement some necessary features.
- Research material: availability of research material is a major setback to the scope of the study.
- Frequent power failure: This made the researcher append more money on fuel to ensure sustainable power.
- Financial Constraint: Insufficient fund tends to impede the efficiency of the researcher in sourcing for the relevant materials, literature or information and in the process of data collection (internet).
1.8 Definition of Terms
Plantain: Plantain belongs to the Musaceae family, a rhizomatous perennial crop and is cultivated in many tropics and subtropical countries of the world. It ranks third after yams and cassava for sustainability in Nigeria (Akomolafe and Aborisade, 2007).
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