New Drier for Nutmeg Processing
 
The export of nutmeg from India has been picking up.  However Indian nutmeg exports are facing quality problems on account of aflatoxin infestation.  Since the harvesting of nutmeg in the country takes place during the monsoon period, chances of fungus infestation is very high on account of non availability of adequate sunlight for drying. It is imperative that the harvested nutmeg and mace are dried properly.  The Spices Board had taken up this problem and undertook field publicity campaign in the nutmeg growing areas of Kerala and Tamil Nadu last year to educate the farmers on the importance of proper drying. The farmers have been looking for suitable drying mechanisms to take care of the nutmeg and mace. Since then the Board had initiated efforts to develop a drier for the farmers. 

Mr. Philipose of Sevana Electricals who developed the nutmeg drier explaining the working to the farmers. Also seen are Director (Dev) Mr Siddharamappa, Deputy Director (Pub) and Chairman of the World Spice Organisation , Mr Philip Kuruvilla

 The first exclusive drier for nutmeg was developed by M/s Sevna Electricals of Kizhakkambalam, Alwaye in Kerala. This electric drier capable of drying 100 kgs of nutmeg and around 25 kgs of nutmace was taken up for field trials in farmers fields.  The nutmeg drier was handed over to the World Spice Organization by Director Develpment of the Board, Mr Siddaramappa at a function held at Karukutty near Alwaye on August 17, 2012.  The drier was entrusted with the Karukutty Krishi Bhavan on the same day. Agriculture Officer, Smt Rema Nair received the drier from Mr Philip Kuruvilla,Chairman of the World Spice Organisation.  WSO will  undertake field trials and will monitor the results.  The Board is making efforts to develop and popularise smaller driers for small and marginal nutmeg farmers using firewood and biogas as fuel. Spices Board Deputy Director, Dr PS Sreekantan Thampi, Scientist, Dr Johnjoe Varghese, Scientist of IISR, Dr Jayasree, IKSL Area Manager, Kerala, Mr Luke, Nutmeg Growers Association President, Mr Zachariah and Agriculure Officer, Smt Rema Nair spoke on the occasion.