CBSUA RAC, Complementary Food Facility provide relief during lockdown

The Central Bicol State University of Agriculture, through the initiative of Dr. Alberto N. Naperi reproduces propolis-based products such as hand sanitizer, throat spray, tincture, soap, and cream. These are products of the research as flagship commodities of the university in coordination with the CBSUA-Regional Apiculture Center (RAC).

Stingless bees produce not only honey and pollen but also lots of propolis which contain resin, pollen, oil and wax, small amounts of amino acids, sugars, minerals, flavonoids, phenols, aromatic compounds and vitamin C, B and E. These have antifungal, antibacterial, antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties.

Two other centers under VP for Research, Production, Extension and Development namely Complimentary Food and Processing Facility and Food Testing Laboratory, with the assistance of Department of Science and Technology- Food and Nutrition Research Institute (DOST-FNRI) and PTSC-CS, also take part in this initiative in partnership with other government agencies formulating the following:

1. Nutri-RMS Blend [plain and choco flavor] made from rice, mungbean and sesame which are rich in energy and protein with minerals to boost the immune system. This is a ready-to-mix food reformulated into a soup base, and
2. Rice-Mongo Crunchies or BigMo, an energy and protein source food.

The centers also formulated the calamansi-basil concentrate and juice for vitamin C supplement to boost the immune system of its consumer. These were distributed to LGU-Pili, Sipocot, Calabanga and Pasacao and the Bicol Medical Center to aid the frontliners. A total of P429,700.00 is the estimated cost for these products if given a value. (Source: RAC, CFPF, Public Information Office)