Faculty of Vocational Education
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Item Compliance with Global Best Practices by Garment Producers in Ghana(2025-07-23) Siaw Stella Daah; Howard Ebenezer Kofi; Appiah Ninette Afi; Chichi Cynthia Akua; Asinyo Benjamin KwablahPurpose :This study investigates the level of compliance with global best practices among garment producers in Ghana, with a specific focus on sourcing compliance, production compliance, and distribution compliance. It covers aspects such as labour ethics, environmental stewardship, product quality, and adherence to international trade standards. Methodology/Design: A cross-sectional survey design was employed, using a structured questionnaire administered to 317 garment manufacturing firms across Accra, Tamale, and Kumasi. Compliance was assessed across sourcing, production, and distribution domains using Likert-scale items adapted from international benchmarks such as the International Labour Organisation (ILO) conventions, ISO certifications, and the Higgs Index. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse patterns and gaps in compliance practices, including mean scores and standard deviations. Findings :The study revealed moderate to low overall compliance, with mean scores. While firms exhibited higher compliance in ethical labour practices, employee training, and quality assurance, substantial deficiencies were identified in environmental sustainability, automation, data-driven quality control, and adherence to international trade regulations. Notably, blockchain use, recycling initiatives, and lean manufacturing practices were poorly rated, indicating limited digital and ecological transformation across the sector. Practical and Social Implications :These findings underscore the pressing need for policy reforms, capacity building, and infrastructure enhancements to facilitate Ghana’s integration into ethical and sustainable global garment value chains. For policymakers, the results underscore the importance of embedding compliance support within national industrial strategies. For garment producers, the study offers a roadmap for targeted investment in technology, sustainability, and workforce development. Originality: This study contributes original empirical evidence on compliance with global best practices in Ghana’s garment sector, a topic that remains underexplored in West Africa. It offers a model for examining compliance dynamics in other emerging economies. Beyond its academic value, the study is policy-relevant, providing insights to inform national industrial strategies, regulatory frameworks, and export support programs that aim to enhance sustainability and competitivenessItem Improving Kaizen Implementation in the Ghanaian GarmentProduction Industry: Prioritising Critical Success Factors(2025-04-29) Sefenu Frances Yayra; Appiah Ninette Afi; Siaw Stella Daah; Kuupole EvelynPurpose :To examine key performance indicators that motivate the adoption of the Kaizen concept, assess challenges encountered during the adoption and prioritise critical success factors for improved Kaizen implementation in garments producing MSEs in Ghana. Methodology/Design :The study adopted the positivism philosophy, which permitted a quantitative approach .An explanatory design was adopted for the study, and questionnaires were used in collecting data. The sample size was 204 respondents from 514 garment producers in MSEs in the Central region of Ghana. The data collected was analysed using Statistical Packages for Social Sciences software (version 27). Findings :Key performance indicators (KPIs) that motivate garment producers in the Central region of Ghana to adopt the Kaizen concept are increasing productivity, reducing production costs and improving garment quality. However, challenges like an unstable electricity supply, worker resistance to change, and difficulties in sustaining Kaizen practices hinder progress toward achieving these KPIs. Leadership commitment, workers' training and development and physical work environment are critical success factors that need to be prioritised to improve the implementation and long-term success of Kaizen in the garment-producing industry. Practical and Social Implications: The findings of the study provide direction to MSEs on integrating Kaizen into their operations to achieve productivity and quality improvements while addressing systemic challenges like an unstable electricity supply and resistance to change. Improving workplace conditions through Kaizen practices can enhance employee well-being and job satisfaction, fostering a more engaged workforce. Additionally, providing training and development opportunities for garment producers helps in embracing the principles and practices of Kaizen. Originality: The study offers context-specific insights that address the key performance indicators that motivate Kaizen implementation in Ghanaian micro and small businesses (MSEs), in contrast to earlier research that has primarily concentrated on developed economies. Also, this study makes a unique contribution to the literature by identifying and prioritising critical success factors (CSFs) for Kaizen implementation within the context of Ghana’s garment industry. In addition, prior to this study, there was a paucity of literature regarding this topic in the study areaItem Crafting 21st-Century Trend-Compliant Fashion Collections for Muslim Women: Ghana in Perspective(2024-01-18) Abdulai Rashida; Appiah Ninette Afi; Abraham IsaacPurpose: The study examined the integration of global fashion trends with Islamic modesty principles in clothing design for Ghanaian Muslim women. It explored the blending of contemporary styles with the requirements of Islamic dress codes, considering the increasing diversity and modernization of Muslim women's fashion preferences. Method: The study utilized art-based studio research and the double Helix Praxis-Exegesis Model, which involves customer profiling, concept creation using mood boards, and design techniques. Ten respondents were purposively selected and interviewed. Feedback from interviews ensured the designs resonated with the target audience. Findings and conclusion: The study discovered that contemporary Islamic fashion combines modesty with modern trends, emphasizing the need for designers to respect religious dress codes and concludes that fashion in Muslim contexts should carefully blend global trends with Islamic modesty, considering cultural nuances. Social implications: The results highlight the significance of cultural and religious sensitivity in fashion design and underscore the role of religion in fashion choices and the necessity for designers, particularly those in Islamic contexts, to comprehend and adhere to religious dress codes. It also indicates the potential of fashion as a means of cultural expression and identity reinforcement among Ghanaian Muslim women. Value/originality: This study contributes to understanding Islamic fashion trends and the challenges and opportunities in designing modest yet fashionable clothing for Muslim women. It provides a unique perspective on blending religious requirements with contemporary fashion, offering insights valuable for designers, marketers, and policymakers in fashion and cultural studiesItem Usage of Free-Hand Cutting and Patterns in Garment Construction in Ghana(2024-03-15) Bans-Akutey Mawufemor; Aboagyewaa-Ntiri Josephine; Appiah Ninette AfiGhanaians now demand better products as they have difficulties with the fit of garment made by their informal dressmakers and tailors. The study aimed to determine the appropriate method for garment construction. The study focused on registered roadside dressmakers, tailors, fashion designers and fashion students in Ghana. A sample of 302 respondents was selected using multi-stage sampling technique. Questionnaire was used to gather information. The results showed that garment made with pattern fits better as compared to freehand cutting. It was concluded that garment constructed with both freehand cutting and patterns brings out the perfect fit of garment. It was recommended that Ghana National Tailors and Dressmakers Association should encourage and train their members on the use of patterns, and this would improve and manifest in the high standard on fit of garment.Item Aligning Ghana’s Apparel Industry with Global Best Practices: A Critical Assessment of Sourcing, Production, and Distribution Operations(2025-05-29) Siaw Stella Daah; Howard Ebenezer Kofi; Asinyo Benjamin Kwablah; Appiah Ninette AfiThis study examines how Ghana’s apparel manufacturing sector aligns with international best practices in sourcing, production, and distribution. Recognizing the transformative potential of the industry within the context of policy frameworks like the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), the study explores the operational, technological, and sustainability dimensions that define competitiveness in the global apparel value chain. Using a quantitative descriptive design, data were collected from 317 industry professionals across major industrial hubs in Ghana. The findings indicate a moderate adoption of sustainable sourcing practices, including traceability and ethical procurement, though supplier development and compliance monitoring remain underdeveloped. Quality control and ethical labour standards are prioritized in production, yet gaps persist in automation, lean manufacturing, and technological integration. Distribution practices reflect a strong interest in timely delivery and sustainable packaging but reveal limited implementation of data-driven logistics, e-commerce, and advanced digital tools such as RFID and predictive analytics. The study identifies critical challenges ranging from infrastructural limitations and technological constraints to workforce skill gaps that hinder the sector’s complete alignment with global standards. Policy implications include the need for targeted support in automation, digital transformation, and vocational training, alongside stronger regulatory frameworks for sustainability and labour practices. While the sector shows promising alignment in certain areas, comprehensive adoption of best practices is essential for positioning Ghana as a competitive apparel hub. The study contributes to broader discussions on industrial upgrading in Sub-Saharan Africa and provides strategic insights for enhancing the global integration and sustainability of localized apparel manufacturingItem Compliance with Global Best Practices by Garment Producers in Ghana(2025-07-23) Siaw Stella Daah; Howard Ebenezer Kofi; Appiah Ninette Afi; Chichi Cynthia Akua; Asinyo Benjamin KwablahPurpose: This study investigates the level of compliance with global best practices among garment producers in Ghana, with a specific focus on sourcing compliance, production compliance, and distribution compliance. It covers aspects such as labour ethics, environmental stewardship, product quality, and adherence to international trade standards. Methodology/Design: A cross-sectional survey design was employed, using a structured questionnaire administered to 317 garment manufacturing firms across Accra, Tamale, and Kumasi. Compliance was assessed across sourcing, production, and distribution domains using Likert-scale items adapted from international benchmarks such as the International Labour Organisation (ILO) conventions, ISO certifications, and the Higgs Index. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse patterns and gaps in compliance practices, including mean scores and standard deviations. Findings :The study revealed moderate to low overall compliance, with mean scores. While firms exhibited higher compliance in ethical labour practices, employee training, and quality assurance, substantial deficiencies were identified in environmental sustainability, automation, data-driven quality control, and adherence to international trade regulations. Notably, blockchain use, recycling initiatives, and lean manufacturing practices were poorly rated, indicating limited digital and ecological transformation across the sector. Practical and Social Implications :These findings underscore the pressing need for policy reforms, capacity building, and infrastructure enhancements to facilitate Ghana’s integration into ethical and sustainable global garment value chains. For policymakers, the results underscore the importance of embedding compliance support within national industrial strategies. For garment producers, the study offers a roadmap for targeted investment in technology, sustainability, and workforce development .Originality :This study contributes original empirical evidence on compliance with global best practices in Ghana’s garment sector, a topic that remains underexplored in West Africa. It offers a model for examining compliance dynamics in other emerging economies. Beyond its academic value, the study is policy-relevant, providing insights to inform national industrial strategies, regulatory frameworks, and export support programs that aim to enhance sustainability and competitivenessItem Incorporation of Traditional Symbols of Upper East Region of Ghana into Fugu Fabrics(2023-03-31) Ayaaba Fuseini; Danso Daniel KwabenaThis research work sought to identify and discuss the socio-economic and cultural relevance of fugu (smock) fabrics, study the extent to which traditional symbols of the Upper East Region of Ghana are incorporated in fugu fabrics, and also design and produce fugu fabrics with selected traditional symbols of Upper East Region of Ghana incorporated in them. The researchers adopted the studio based research approach as it is deemed the most appropriate for this type of research project. It involved the descriptive and exploratory methods of research. The purposive and quota sampling methods were employed in this research which made it possible to reach the fugu fabric weavers, users of the fugu, sellers of fugu and fugu fabrics for needed data. A sample size of fifty (50) was used and data gathered were obtained through the use of questionnaire and interview. The researchers found that fugu fabrics contribute a lot in the cultural and socio-economic lives of the people in the Upper East Region of Ghana as they use them for funerals, festivals, marriage ceremonies, and it also help them earn good living through occupations such as weaving, sewing, and sale of smocks. Respondents also, generally, expressed interest in the incorporation of traditional symbols in the fugu fabrics of Ghana. The study concluded that the incorporation of traditional symbols in the fugu fabrics of the Upper East Region of Ghana will promote the cultural value of the products, enhance their aesthetic appeal, and also attract more people to purchase them. It is, therefore, imperative for fugu fabric producers and textile artists, in general, to turn attention to the fugu business and work towards the inculturation of fugu fabrics with traditional symbols of Ghana to make the industry a vibrant and more attractive one. The researchers also recommend their newly designed fugu symbolic fabrics for use.Item Consumers Knowledge of Symbolic Names and Meanings of Ghanaian Fabrics(2022) Ampa-Korsah Hagar; Aboagyewaa-Ntiri Josephine; Adu-Gyamfi Vida; Yeboah AkwasiGenerally, Ghanaian fabrics are unique and authentic, with each bearing traditional riches that express more pride in their national history, physical, material or symbolic gestures to benefit the indigenous Ghanaians. The fabrics have symbolic names and meanings, based upon which this study investigated consumers’ knowledge of symbolic names and meanings of Ghanaian fabrics and their impact on consumer purchase intentions. A quantitative research design was adopted for the study with a targeted population of 3,490,030 that visit the various clothing and textile shops in the Kumasi Central Business District (KCBD). The sample size for the study was 385 participants. Purposive and convenience sampling techniques were used in selecting the respondents. A questionnaire was used as an instrument to gather information from the respondents. The returned questionnaires were coded and keyed into SPSS-23.0. The data gathered were analysed using descriptive statistics in the form of frequencies, percentages, mean and standard deviation. The study revealed that the customers have little knowledge about Ghanaian fabrics’ symbolic names and meanings. It was concluded that Ghanaian fabrics had symbolic value, with names and meanings attached and consumers had little knowledge about the Ghanaian fabrics they use. The study recommended that manufacturers could embark on social, cultural and traditional events as part of their promotional programmes to educate and remind consumers to appreciate their rich culture and the symbolic value of the Ghanaian fabrics.Item HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY AS A CATALYST FOR CULTURAL TOURISM IN KUMASI, GHANA: TEXTILE INTERIOR DECORATION WITH ADINKRA SYMBOLS(2024) Bour-Peprah Nancy; Danso Daniel Kwabena; Adom Dickson; Aboagyewaa-Ntiri JosephineThe hospitality industry is one of the fastest-growing industries compared to the other sectors of the global economy and it has become a competitive environment and drives the search for new ways and elements of efficient performance. Interior decoration deals with decorating a commercial business accord or a residential home to a customer's personal preferences and styles. Clients of hotels and guest houses choose to lodge at places where they consider interior designs with cultural interpretations. Adinkra symbols have distinct meanings for supporting and transmitting a complex nuanced body of practices and belief systems. A studio-based practice research method under the qualitative research approach was employed for this study to observe how hotel roomswere decorated in twenty-five (25) selected hotels in the Kumasi Metropolis, Ashanti Region, Ghana. The study found that a large number of hotels purchase foreign fabrics and already made artefacts to decorate their hotel interiors. The fewhotelsinterior decorators who decorate their hotels with Adinkra symbols just use them with little or no consideration of their meanings. Six (6) products were produced by the researchers which were exhibited and used for the interior decoration of a hotel room. The study contends that hospitality industries in Kumasi must tactfully use cultural symbols in their interior decorations to boost their patronageItem Layouts and Effective Creation of Female Garment Designs in Ghanaian Clothing Industry(2012) Aboagyewaa – Ntiri Josephine; Apreku VidaThe purpose of this study was to highlight pattern layouts which lead to skills acquisition by both students and designers in the clothing industry in Kumasi, a city in Ghana. The sample size of the study was 200 people. Questionnaire, interview and observation were used for data collection and content analysis done. Findings from the study indicate that some fashion designers did not see the benefits of using patterns; therefore, they did not use pattern layouts. However, the clothing designing students agreed that layouts helped in designing creative and professional garments. Although, their major constraint in the use of layouts is the increase number of hours used to produce patterns. The paper concludes with a call on stakeholders to give some training or workshops on knowledge of pattern layouts to both formally and informally trained fashion designers.Item CHALLENGES FACING THE MARKETING OF FASHION PRODUCTS IN GHANA: CASE STUDY OF FASHION BUSINESSES IN HO MUNICIPALITY(2018) Danso Daniel Kwabena; Nuworkpor Anita Afi; Kuwornu-Adjaottor Jonathan E. T.; Aboagyewaa-Ntir JosephineThe study assessed challenges facing the marketing of fashion products in the Ho Municipality of Ghana. A total sample size of two hundred (200) respondents was used in the conduct of this study. Quota sampling technique was adopted in the selection of staff and management of the selected fashion businesses. A total of 215 questionnaires were administered to respondents and 200 were received from them. The results indicated that there are several challenges facing the marketing of fashion products in Ho. These are lack of capital and credit facilities, high income tax, high utility bills and rent, lack of market, low and irregular income, competition of cheap imported clothes, lack of knowledge and skills in the use of clothing production techniques. It was found that challenges hindering the marketing of fashion products could be addressed through financial support, formal training, the ban of importation of fashion goods into the country and the regular conduct of fashion trade fairs. The study recommended that fashion enterprises should be supported by government and financial institutions in the prestart-up phase, the start-up phase and the growing phase in order to reduce the burden on them. Fashion firms should also be creative and innovative to survive the challenges facing the industry, particularly in terms of marketing, textile designs and fashion product designing. Fashion businesses should also embrace social media opportunities to promote their products. There is also the need for infrastructural developments that will help reduce production cost but improve quality.Item Usage of Free-Hand Cutting and Patterns in Garment Construction in Ghana(Scientific Research Publishing, 2024-03-15) Bans-Akutey Mawufemor; Aboagyewaa-Ntiri Josephine; Appiah Ninette AfiGhanaians now demand better products as they have difficulties with the fit of garment made by their informal dressmakers and tailors. The study aimed to determine the appropriate method for garment construction. The study focused on registered roadside dressmakers, tailors, fashion designers and fashion students in Ghana. A sample of 302 respondents was selected using multi-stage sampling technique. Questionnaire was used to gather information. The results showed that garment made with pattern fits better as compared to freehand cutting. It was concluded that garment constructed with both freehand cutting and patterns brings out the perfect fit of garment. It was recommended that Ghana National Tailors and Dressmakers Association should encourage and train their members on the use of patterns, and this would improve and manifest in the high standard on fit of garment.Item Developing a program to train nurses in exploration and management of pre-operative anxiety and information needs of patients (PEMPAINP)(Acorn, 2025) Dankyi Sawan; Bimerew Million; Chipps Jennifer-AnneObjective: The objective of the study was to develop a program to train nurses to explore and manage pre-operative anxiety and information needs of patients. Methods: A panel comprising 15 experts was purposively selected and engaged through the Delphi technique to formulate the training program. Data collection was executed over three rounds, employing both focus group discussions and self-administered questionnaires, to achieve consensus among the experts regarding the draft training program.Results: Among the 15 participants, a majority identified three critical components for training nurses in assessing pre-operative anxiety and patient information needs – ‘standard pre-operative interventions’ (12 participants, 80.0%), ‘communicative skills’ (13 participants, 86.7%) and ‘establish rapport’ (13 participants, 86.7%). In terms of managing information needs, all 15 participants (100.0%) agreed on the importance of ‘evaluating information on patient and family’, while 12 participants (80.0%) endorsed the significance of ‘being innovative’ and adopting a ‘multidisciplinary approach’.Conclusions: The training program has been meticulously crafted to encompass content crucial for enhancing the knowledge and competencies of surgical ward nurses in assessing and managing pre-operative anxiety and addressing the informational needs of patientsItem Pre-operative anxiety of patients in district hospitals in Ashanti Region, Ghana(Acorn, 2023-09) Dankyi Sawan; Bimerew Million; Chipps JenniferObjectives: To investigate pre-operative anxiety of patients at district hospitals in Ashanti Region, Ghana. Method: A descriptive survey was conducted with patients who were being prepared to undergo various surgical operations at ten hospitals. The questionnaire included the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAM-A) and questions about factors that may contribute to patients’ anxiety prior to surgery. Results: Most of the 210 respondents reported anxiety with 189 (90%) reporting some anxiety before the surgical operation (20.57/30, ±10.07), range 0–26). Respondents reported moderate anxious mood (2.14, ±1.45), tension prior to surgery (2.00, ±1.35) and insomnia on the day before the procedure (2.00, ±1.32). It was identified that the type of surgical procedure (3.43, ±1.36), fear of complications (3.42, ±1.33) and possible post-operative pain (3.38, ±1.20) were the most common concerns contributing to pre-operative anxiety. There was a positive association between type of surgery (p < 0.004), post operative pain (p < 0.005) and concerns for family (p < 0.002) and anxiety. Conclusion: Most respondents had some level of pre-operative anxiety associated with the type of surgical procedure, possible complications and post-operative pain.Item INFLUENCES OF RIDER PRACTICES AND ONLINE FOOD DELIVERY SERVICES ON CUSTOMER SATISFACTION(2024-12) Mensah, Eric Edem; Adi, Doreen Dedo; Olu, Ellen Louise; Akubia, Yaa Mawufemor; Nartey, Narteh Ebenezer; Adonu, Regina EnyonamPurpose: This study investigates the influence of rider practices on customer satisfaction in online food delivery (OFD) services within the Accra Metropolis, Ghana. Design/Methodology/Approach: The study was conducted using a survey. Purposive and snow ball sampling techniques were employed to select 120 participants who frequently use OFD ser vices. Data was analysed using descriptive statistics, focusing on the OFD-SERV dimensions: system operation, traceability, reliability, meal maintenance quality, hygiene, assurance, and se curity. Findings: Customers valued system operation, traceability, and meal maintenance, while assur ance and security dimensions received lower satisfaction ratings. Rider politeness, neat appear ance, and the use of protective gear were found to influence customer satisfaction significantly. However, issues such as food mishandling and late deliveries were identified as key concerns that negatively impacted customer experiences. Research Limitation: One major limitation encountered was difficulty obtaining the sampled re spondents to whom the questionnaire was to be administered. Practical Implications: Improving rider training, especially in communication and hygiene prac tices, could enhance customer satisfaction and retention in the OFD industry. Social Implications: The study has the potential to help marketing managers develop strategies that enhance service quality. This would strengthen the business brand and boost overall sales, improving customer satisfaction and economic growth. Originality/Value: This study contributes to the limited literature on OFD services in Ghana by addressing service assurance and security gaps that could further strengthen customer trust and loyalty.Item Nutritional quality of meals served under the Ghana school feeding programme at the Upper West and Central Region of Ghana(2019-04-08) Bigson Kate; Essuman Edward Ken; Boadu Vida Gyimah; Otoo Gifty SerwaaThis research evaluated the nutritional quality of meals that were served to school children under the Ghana School Feeding Programme in Wa and Cape Coast. A cross-sectional and descriptive survey research designs were employed from which purposive and simple random sampling technique was adopted. In all, a total of 720 respondents were selected and that comprised 600 pupils, 60 teachers and 60 kitchen staff. Data were also obtained using questionnaire, observation and unstructured interview instruments. The data were then analysed with database and statistical software such as SPSS, ESHA, FNPD and USDA National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference. Qualitatively, the findings revealed that meals served in the schools had most of the needed food nutrients. However, the mean daily nutritional values intake of the pupils in the schools in both studied areas did not meet the recommended nutrient intake value. It is therefore recommended that the government should enhance the nutritional quality of the meals served to the pupils by supplying vitamin supplements. Again, the government should consult experts in food and nutrition in each region to redraw menu which has nutritional benefits from locally grown foods.Item Assessment of Farmer’s Usage of Pesticides on Cocoa Farms at Sefwi Wiawso District in the Western Region of Ghana(2021) Boadu Vida Gyimah; Boadu Maxwell OseiCocoa is the most important agricultural export crop in Ghana, and the country has an enviable reputation of producing high quality cocoa. Pests of cocoa are mostly controlled by the application of conventional insecticides. The study investigated farmers’ knowledge, pesticide use pattern and practices along the cocoa production chain. Descriptive survey design was used for the study since the researchers wanted to find out farmers opinion on the use of pesticides at Sefwi Wiawso in the Western Region. Purposive sampling technique was used because it captures the area which was relevant to the study. Questionnaires were administered to 84 cocoa farmers. The findings of the study revealed that majority of the farmers had indepth knowledge and skills in all aspect of farming since cocoa farming is their main vocation. Cocoa farming is their main source of income, hence are not able to follow the recommended pesticide usage regulation before harvesting. Consequently, it could lead to higher pesticide residue levels of the cocoa beans. With regard to the recommendation, there should be a lot of training programme for the farmers which should be organized by Ghana Cocoa Board and CODAPEC programme should be restored to regulate the use of pesticide by farmers. This is to ensure that the pesticides residue levels in the country’s cocoa beans are within the permissible levels to avoid the rejection of beans from Ghana with its associated international sanctions and loss of substantial revenueItem The Impact of Different Drying Techniques on the Physicochemical and Quality Characteristics of Oil Palm Fruit Mesocarp (Elaeis guineensis)(2021-12-24) Boadu Vida Gyimah; Essuman Edward Ken; Otoo Gifty Serwaa; Bigson KateDrying is one of the traditional means of preserving food. However, various drying methods can influence the nutritional and bioactive constituents of the food product. This study is aimed at evaluating the effect of different drying methods on the proximate composition, physicochemical properties, and minor constituents of palm oil fruit mesocarp. Two varieties of fresh oil palm fruit (dura and tenera) were processed to separate the mesocarp from the other part of the fruit. The fresh fruit mesocarp was divided into five groups and subjected to different drying methods. Proximate and physicochemical characteristics of the oil palm fruit mesocarp were determined. The dried mesocarp had low moisture content (1.49-3.28%), high crude fat content (78.10-90.60%), carbohydrate (4.41-15.12%), crude protein (0.93-3.40%), and ash (0.53-1.15%). The free fatty acid (FFA) (1.06-3.54) and acid value (AV) (2.17 to 8.83mgKOH/g) were lower because the samples were heated at 100°C for 30min. The lower pH, FFA, AV, titratable acidity, moisture content, and high antioxidant activity of the oil palm fruit products could be an indication of shelf stability against microbial contamination and rancidityItem Application of portable near infrared spectroscopy for classifying and quantifying cocoa bean quality parameters(2021-03-11) Elliot K. Anyidoho; Teye Ernest; Agbemafle Robert; Amuah Charles L. Y.; Boadu Vida GyimahFermentation duration (FmD), fermentation index (FI), pH, and moisture content(Mc) are vital quality attributes of cocoa beans. In this study, portable near infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) and multivariate analyses were used for rapid determination of FmD, FI, pH, and Mc of cocoa beans. The samples were scanned in 900- to 1,700-nmwavelength, and the spectral data were pretreated independently with first deriva-tives (FD) and second derivatives (SD), multiplicative scatter correction (MSC), mean centering (MC), and standard normal variate (SNV), while linear discriminant analysis(LDA), support vector machine (SVM), and partial least squares regression (PLS-R)were used to build the prediction models for FmD, FI, pH, and Mc. MSC plus SVM gave an accurate classification of 100%. For predicting FI, pH, and Mc, the PLS-R model gave coefficient of correlation of 0.87, 0.82, and 0.89, respectively. The results showed that portable NIRS could be employed for cocoa bean examination. Novelty impact statement: Fermentation is the single most essential postharvest operation that influences cocoa beans quality parameters including moisture content ,fermentation index (FI) and pH. Unlike stationary laboratory based wet chemistry technique or table top NIR spectroscopy, this study revealed that the relatively inex-pensive portable NIR spectroscopy could provide very fast (within 30 s) results in the routine onsite evaluation of cocoa beans moisture content, fermentation index and pH on farmers field in Sub-Saharan Africa. In particular, the study outcome highlights the potential application of portable NIR spectroscopy based on machine learning for efficient classification of fermentation duration and quantification of moisture content & pH of cocoa beans in real-time usage.Item Novel authentication of African geographical coffee types (bean, roasted, powdered) by handheld NIR spectroscopic method(2024-08-15) Boadu Vida Gyimah; Teye Ernest; Lamptey Francis Padi; Amuah Charles Lloyd Yeboah; Sam-Amoah L.K.African coffee is among the best traded coffee types worldwide, and rapid identification of its geographical origin is very important when trading the commodity. The study was important because it used NIR techniques to geographically differentiate between various types of coffee and provide a supply chain traceability method to avoid fraud. In this study, geographic differentiation of African coffee types (bean, roasted, and powder) was achieved using handheld near-infrared spectroscopy and multivariant data processing. Five African countries were used as the origins for the collection of Robusta coffee. The samples were individually scanned at a wavelength of 740–1070 nm, and their spectra profiles were preprocessed with mean centering (MC), multiplicative scatter correction (MSC), and standard normal variate (SNV). Support vector machines (SVM), linear discriminant analysis (LDA), neural networks (NN), random forests (RF), and partial least square discriminate analysis (PLS-DA) were then used to develop a prediction model for African coffee types. The performance of the model was assessed using accuracy and F1-score. Proximate chemical composition was also conducted on the raw and roasted coffee types. The best classification algorithms were developed for the following coffee types: raw bean coffee, SD-PLSDA, and MC + SD-PLSDA. These models had an accuracy of 0.87 and an F1-score of 0.88. SNV + SD-SVM and MSC + SD-NN both had accuracy and F1 scores of 0.97 for roasted coffee beans and 0.96 for roasted coffee powder, respectively. The results revealed that efficient quality assurance may be achieved by using handheld NIR spectroscopy combined with chemometrics to differentiate between different African coffee types according to their geographical origins.