Check it out! We are designing a peanut processing plant in Malawi, Africa for Afri-Nut, a landmark groundnut processing plant for Malawi that sorts and roasts peanuts contaminated with Aspergillus. Aspergillus is a common bacteria found in soil. It is capable of infiltrating crops and can cause sickness in individuals with weak immune systems after the crop has been ingested. The mold produces a secondary metabolite that acts as a carcinogen, can stunt growth in children, and can cause death. In Malawi, the peanuts are often contaminated with aspergillus both during the growing process and when they are under stress from droughts or pests, for example. They also get contaminated during the drying process when the farmers allow the peanuts to dry on the soil for long periods of time. We plan to design a processing plant that will eliminate this contaminant from the peanuts.
For more information on our clients Afri-Nut and Valid Nutrition click the links below!
http://afrinut.com/
http://www.validnutrition.org/
For more information on our clients Afri-Nut and Valid Nutrition click the links below!
http://afrinut.com/
http://www.validnutrition.org/
Team Members:
Brigid Byrd
Patrick Murray
Danielle Rabil
Kindell Schmitt
Faculty Advisor:
Dr. Kumar Mallikarjunan
Industry Advisor:
Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources
Hans Schonenberger, Plant Manager
Senior Design Advisor:
Dr. Cully Hession