IPB University Students Utilize the Potential of Crystal Guava in Wiromartan Village into Crisps and Fruit Juice

Crystal guava is a resource that can be found in Wiromartan Village, Kebumen, Central Java. However, its processed products are still limited. Therefore, IPB University students who are taking part in the Innovation Real-Thematic Work Lecture (KKN-T) make new innovations in the form of chips and juice.

“Previously, we conducted experiments first, then selected by voting which recipe was the best,” said Zahra Timur Eda, a student of KKN-T Inovasi IPB University.

Zahra explained that guava chips were made in two experiments. In the first experiment, the chips were fried directly, while in the second experiment the chips were dried using sunlight first to reduce the water content in the guava. “The results of the experiment showed that sun-dried guava was preferred because the texture was crispier compared to chips that were not dried,” she said.

On the other hand, the juice product was made using three experiments. First, the juice was added with carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC). The second experiment added fruit juice flavoring. In the third experiment, fruit juice was not added with anything. Based on the three trials, the third juice was the most preferred because the guava flavor was more pronounced than the other two.

“The original juice is better, the guava taste is more pronounced,” said Wiji, head of the Wiromartan Village Family Welfare Empowerment (PKK) when the students held a socialization and demonstration.

Zahra further revealed that the demonstration of making chips was carried out by preparing several initial steps first. IPB University students also explained step by step while frying guava using sugar water to caramelize the guava.

“The fruit juice demonstration is done by distributing posters and explaining the steps to PKK women. If the women have questions, they can ask in the middle of the explanation,” she said.

After that, the chips and juice were distributed evenly to PKK women and children who attended the socialization activity. Zahra said that the chips and juice innovation is expected to be one of the products that can develop in the future and help increase the additional income of PKK women in Wiromartan Village.

“The chips and juice are delicious, sis,” said Adel, one of the children who attended the socialization. (*/Rz) (IAAS/MKY)