The Federal University of Technology, Akure, FUTA, has taken steps to scale up the production of Bell Peppers it started a few years ago following increasing demand from within and outside the country.
Receiving the freshly harvested peppers from a team led by Professor Ayoola Olalusi of the Department of Agriculture Engineering and his technical team , the Vice Chancellor, Professor Adenike Oladiji expressed her delight in the continuation in production of the pepper in the green house of the University , promising to scale it up. "We are building more Green Houses soon, taking it from one to six before the end of the year.
This is because we also want to ensure that those who want to be trained in its production have ample places and also because of increasing demand . The market is waiting for us. We have increased demands of the product all over the country and we cannot afford to disappoint our clients. FUTA is not paying lip service to food security and we are ready to partner with governments and organization to make this readily available at affordable prices. I know this pepper is a value addition to the common ones we have around. We can even take it global through exportation as we progress."
Presenting the pepper, Professor Ayoola Olalusi said "We are here to present our new harvest to madam Vice Chancellor and to inform her that this product is in high demand in the market. With the promise to increase the house to six, I can boldly say that we are ready to further meet the market needs with the products which comes in colours Green, Yellow and Red."
Bell peppers, also known as sweet peppers or paprika, are widely appreciated for their vibrant colors, mild sweetness, and culinary versatility. Beyond their aesthetic and culinary value, bell peppers are rich in essential nutrients and bioactive compounds that contribute significantly to human health. Nutritionally, bell peppers are low in calories while offering a dense supply of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. A typical 100-gram serving of raw bell pepper contains approximately 31 kilocalories, 6 grams of carbohydrates, 2.1 grams of dietary fiber, 1 gram of protein, and only 0.3 grams of fat. Notably, they are an excellent source of vitamin C, with a single serving providing around 127 mg well over 150% of the recommended daily intake.
Additionally, bell peppers supply substantial amounts of vitamin A (primarily in the form of beta-carotene), vitamin B6, vitamin E, vitamin K1, and folate. They also contain essential minerals such as potassium, manganese, magnesium, and iron.
On the health properties of the pepper research indicates "the health-promoting properties of bell peppers are largely attributed to their high antioxidant content. Vitamin C plays a central role in boosting immune function and neutralizing harmful free radicals, while carotenoids like beta-carotene, lutein, and zeaxanthin help protect cells from oxidative damage. These carotenoids are especially abundant in yellow and orange varieties and are particularly beneficial for eye health. Regular consumption may lower the risk of cataracts and age-related macular degeneration. Bell peppers also support cardiovascular health. Their high potassium content contributes to the regulation of blood pressure, while dietary fiber helps manage blood cholesterol levels.
Furthermore, their antioxidant components reduce the risk of inflammation and oxidative stress, both of which are underlying factors in the development of heart disease. Chronic inflammation, often implicated in conditions such as arthritis and metabolic disorders, may be mitigated through the intake of bell peppers due to their rich profile of anti-inflammatory phytochemicals. Capsanthin, a unique antioxidant pigment found predominantly in red bell peppers, has shown potential in preventing cellular damage and reducing the risk of certain cancers by inhibiting DNA mutations.
Speaking further, he said researchers have also confirmed that, "beyond internal health, bell peppers contribute to the maintenance of healthy skin and hair. The synergy of vitamins C, A, and E supports collagen synthesis, promotes skin elasticity, and fosters hair growth.
For pregnant women, bell peppers provide folate (vitamin B9), which is crucial for fetal neural development and reducing the likelihood of birth defects. Given their low caloric content and high fiber composition, bell peppers are ideal for individuals aiming to manage their weight.
They have a low glycemic index, which helps stabilize blood sugar levels and may be particularly beneficial for individuals with diabetes or insulin resistance.
Bell peppers represent a nutrient-dense, health-enhancing food that offers a broad spectrum of benefits from bolstering the immune system and protecting vision to supporting cardiovascular, metabolic, and reproductive health.
Regular consumption of bell peppers, especially in various colors, ensures a diverse intake of phytochemicals and maximizes their nutritional potential."
Post a Comment