Membrane Purification of Palm Sap (NEERA)
Palm sap is a nutritious drink, but it cannot be stored for long duration (once it is extracted from the palm tree) even under refrigeration. Polymeric membranes are used to purify/clarify palm sap (Neera). The resulting palm sap is visibly better, without turbidity, is free of bacteria and yeast (that cause fermentation). This can be achieved without loss of nutrients, and without any use of chemical additives/ biopreservatives. The purified palm sap has a shelf life of up to 6 months.
Sector: Food Processing
Country: India
Area of Application: • The purified palm sap (Neera) can be sold as a refreshing and natural drink • Could be packaged and sold without getting spoilt (due to removal of micro-organisms) • Has long shelf-life • Cheap and natural drink
Keywords: Palm sap, nutritious drink, polymeric membranes, purify, Neera, shelf life
Advantages: • Natural drink from a widely available source • It has been shown conclusively that Neera is a nutritive and a body coolant • Nutritive: contains protein, natural sugars, iron, phosphorus, calcium, ascorbic acid, riboflavin and thiamine • Cheap, affordable drink that could be made available throughout the year, and around the country (in its purified form) • No refrigeration needed for packaged/purified Neera
Environmental aspects:
Development Status: Laboratory Model
Legal Protection:
Technical specifications:
Transfer Terms: Joint Venture , Technology Licensing
Target Countries:
Estimated cost (US$):
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Contact Person: National Chemical Laboratory, CSIR
Address: A208, PAML Building, National Chemical Laboratory Dr Homi Bhabha Road,
City: Pune
Country: India
Zip/Pin Code: 411007