Utilization of cassava (Manihot esculenta) as alternative local food source supporting food diversification in North Maluku

¹ Research Center for Behavioral and Circular Economics, BRIN, Jakarta, Indonesia
² Research Center for Agricultural and Estate Crops, BRIN, Bogor, Indonesia

^* Corresponding author: yaya029@brin.go.id

Abstract

Cassava is a food commodity widely cultivated and developed in North Maluku based on local wisdom, which is essential in supporting food security. This study aims to conduct an inventory and determine the use of cassava as an alternative food source in North Maluku. Inventory and characterization of activities carried out from March to December 2019. The method used was descriptive exploration with surveys, field observations, and interviews. The inventory results showed that North Maluku has the potential of cassava as a source of carbohydrates and alternative food to reduce dependence on people's rice consumption. A large amount of cassava production supports the possibility of providing local non-rice food sources in North Maluku. In addition, there were 13 local cassava accessions identified. Processed cassava into other food products had added value and encouraged increased consumption of this commodity as a non-rice local food commodity of strategic value. The government plays an essential role in the food diversification program to increase public awareness of consuming non-rice local food such as cassava. Kasbi sago is one of the typically processed cassava products and is widely consumed by the people of North Maluku.