Assessment of seed-oil extraction technology in some selected states in Nigeria

• Published in: Technovation Vol. 23; no. 6; pp. 545 - 553
• Main Authors: Faborode, M.O, Owolarafe, O.K, Lasisi, A.A, Kasali, S.A, Oguntuase, K.S
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Amsterdam Elsevier Ltd 01.06.2003; Elsevier Sequoia S.A
• Subjects: Appropriate technology; Food processing industry; Oils & fats; Oilseed processing; Oilseeds; Production methods; Studies; Technology; Technology assessment; Nigeria; Appropriate technology; Oilseed processing; Technology assessment
• ISSN: 0166-4972; 1879-2383
• DOI: 10.1016/S0166-4972(02)00005-6

The growing demand for oil in several industries calls for the need to improve on the current situation of oilseed processing (with emphasis on the processing technologies). A survey was conducted in five states in Nigeria (Osun, Oyo, Ondo, Lagos and Kwara) through the use of a questionnaire and oral discussions. A total of 95 processing centres were surveyed and information was gathered on oilseed processing technologies adopted. The study revealed that, presumably due to techno-economic reasons, the most industrialised states have more oil mills. About 28% of the total number of firms have folded due to breakdown of machines, inadequate raw materials for production and lack of market for some products. The majority of the oil processors are in the small-scale category. Most of the processors do not perform pre-processing operations such as cleaning and heat treatment because of a lack of knowledge of the operations and, where other operations are performed, appropriate techniques are not used. The vegetable oil processors are able to source their machines locally though some still import. Interestingly, spares for all of the machines are available locally. Formal training of the operators in carrying out the processing operations, handling and maintenance of machines is suggested so as to enhance productivity and improve the quality of oil produced.