Authors : I.C. Olife, M.A. Jolaoso and A.P. Onwualu
Abstract: Cashew is a drought resistant crop that can grow successfully in areas with a very distinct dry season or where the annual rainfall is as low as 50 cm. It can also grow well in areas with high levels of rainfall (as much as 350 cm annually) provided the soil is well drained. Cashew grows >12 m high and has a spread of 25 m. Its extensive root system allows it to tolerate a wide range of moisture levels and soil types. However, commercial production is advisable only in well-drained, sandy loam or red soils. Cashew grows almost everywhere in Nigeria but its cultivation is concentrated primarily in the South and Middle Belt regions in small holder farms and plantations. Products from cashew fruits include: Liquor, vinegar, juice, juice concentrate, jam, beverages, pickle, chutney and candied products. Cashew nut shell contains inedible Cashew Nut Shell Liquid (CNSL) while the nut contains Cashew Nut Kernel Oil (CNKO) which is a sweet edible oil. The pressed kernel cake from CNKO extraction process is suitable for use in human and animal feeds. This study examines cashew processing in Nigeria and its potentials for economic development as well as the nutritional and health benefits of different cashew products.
I.C. Olife, M.A. Jolaoso and A.P. Onwualu, 2013. Cashew Processing for Economic Development in Nigeria. Agricultural Journal, 8: 45-50.