This presentation highlights science-based approaches to transforming pomegranate fruit parts to more valuable states and innovating pomegranate fruit into specialty products valuable in the cosmetic, food, nutraceutical, and pharmaceutical industries. Overall, research from Stellenbosch University and the University of Johannesburg shows that producers do stand to benefit from diversifying into a value-added business.

Panelists:

Prof. Olaniyi Amos Fawole,

Postharvest and Agroprocessing Research Laboratory (PARL),

Department of Botany and Plant Biotechnology, University of Johannesburg, olaniyif@uj.ac.za

Dr. Tafadzwa Kaseke,

Postharvest and Agroprocessing Research Laboratory (PARL),

Department of Botany and Plant Biotechnology, University of Johannesburg, tafakaseqe@gmail.com

Moderator: Hory Chikez,

Ph.D.candidate in Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering

at Iowa State University, horych@iastate.edu