NMK Green Technologies (Pvt) Ltd, a member of the NMK Holdings (Private) Ltd which has introduced around 30 food products to the local and international markets under the brand name 'Marina', has launched a new process for the production of copra, after a series of research as Sri Lankan innovation.
This innovative system will replace the age-old traditional method of copra production and will help Sri Lanka to save around Rs. 4 billion in foreign exchange per annum, said Manjula Narayana, Managing Director of NMK Group of Companies, in a press release.
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The usual process of producing coconut oil involved an enormous amount of coconut shells wasted by burning them for drying the copra. Around 80,000 to 120,000 tons of coconut oil is produced locally per annum to meet the consumer demand. This means that around 8,000 coconuts are required to produce a ton of coconut oil. Therefore, on an average, one billion coconuts are needed to produce Sri Lanka's annual coconut oil consumption.
"Around 65% - 75% coconut shells are annually burnt in this traditional method. If we were to export these wasted shells as charcoal and value added activated carbon, Sri Lanka can earn Rs. 4 billion per annum," he said.
This situation can be diverted for the greater benefit and prosperity of the country if the newly invented process of copra drying is applied. For the benefit of the national economy, this machinery can be provided to those keen in this new technology, he said.
The company during 10 years of research with the active involvement of academics including professors has been able to scientifically perfect a new method with minimal waste.
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