Mariposa MPC receives technology training on dishwashing liquid production
By: John Maico M. Hernandez
Mariposa Multipurpose Cooperative (MPC) in Balete, Batangas received a training on dishwashing liquid production from the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) – Batangas as a technology support intervention in their pursuit to venture to this kind of business, held at the cooperative’s multipurpose hall, Brgy. Magapi, Balete, Batangas, last February 16.
Since its inception, the cooperative has been involved in the retail sale of rice and agricultural supplies, with their farmer members as their main clients. However, this business of the cooperative was put on hold as a result of the COVID-19 epidemic and the Taal Volcano eruption. As a recovery mechanism, the cooperative developed business plans to stay afloat in these challenging times. Part of this plan is the venture into dishwashing liquid production, which they consider to have good market potential given the prevailing household demand.
The dishwashing liquid production technology used during the training was developed by the Industrial Technology Development Institute of DOST (DOST-ITDI). Resource speakers were Mr. Jan Rotsen Kyle A. Delos Santos and Mr. Eduardo A. Lanto, both from the Pharmaceutical Section of the Chemicals and Energy Division of DOST-ITDI.
The training covered discussion on the technical components of dishwashing liquid, including their chemical properties, surfactants, processing technologies, testing, and packaging. Prior to technology demonstration, ingredients and materials, tools and equipment needed, functions of ingredients, and procedures were discussed to participants. Right after the discussion, participants executed the step-by-step procedures with the guidance of the resource speakers. Mixture of surfactants was carried out in an assured and safe manner through observing good manufacturing practices which include the use of personal protective equipment. The pH of the products was tested before packaging to ensure its safety to consumers. Packaged products were then set aside to allow clearing of solutions.
Members of Mariposa MPC thanked DOST-Batangas and DOST-ITDI for making the training possible. According to Ms. Ceriza Nitro, this training was advantageous in realizing their plan of establishing a dishwashing liquid production enterprise. She also mentioned that they are in high hopes that this would impact not only their members but would also contribute to their community’s economic development.#
