Solar-powered blanching system for improved postharvest fish processing

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Parmar A, Cooke S and Bottema M. 2025. Solar-powered blanching system for improved postharvest fish processing. Penang, Malaysia: WorldFish. Factsheet: 2025-111.

Blanching is a key step in the value chain of small pelagic fish, such as dagaa, before they are dried or further processed for market. Blanching helps improve the quality of dried fish. Without it, the final product may spoil faster, fetch lower prices or be rejected by buyers. Traditionally, fish processors in coastal Kenya and Tanzania blanch fish using wood fires, which are not an efficient energy source and contribute to deforestation in protected areas. They also raise operating costs and expose postharvest workers, mostly women, to smoke that harms respiratory health. Simply Solar’s PVsteamCube provides thermal blanching by storing solar energy and generating steam on demand, even at night. The steam heats locally made, insulated troughs or vessels for boiling fish. The system recovers up to 50% of heat from blanching wastewater, improving overall energy efficiency. The technology eliminates firewood use, removes smoke exposure, and improves product quality.

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