Usage of Selected Botanicals for Grain Flour Storage among Rural Households in Tamil Nadu

Abstract

Storage of processed grains is a very common and crucial practice for every family, especially those in rural areas of India. This study assessed the usage of botanicals for grain flour storage among the rural families of Tamil Nadu, India. A training intervention was planned and implemented on eco-friendly storage practices in Salem district of Tamil Nadu. A sample of 100 respondents were selected based on their willingness and availability to participate in the intervention programme in randomly selected villages of Salem District . The responses from the trainees before and after the training intervention programme provided insights into the extent of the adoption of eco-friendly storage practices. The assessment indicated a significant change in the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) of rural households. All the respondents gained knowledge and awareness about eco-friendly storage techniques, and the adoption rate was around 50 percent after the training intervention. Participants also began using eco-friendly storage materials such as containers, particularly in stainless-steel. The study suggests that every state department of agriculture, district KVKs, rural development departments and other line departments should take simple steps to improve storage practices of food grains and flour using eco-friendly methods among consumers in their respective areas.

Keywords

• Knowledge; Attitude; Practice; Rural households; Food Grains; Flour; Storage; Tamil Nadu.