The International Egg Foundation is collaborating with UNICEF to set up a cutting-edge egg powder processing plant currently en route to Ethiopia for installation.
This state-of-the-art facility, equipped with essential liquid egg pasteurization technology, is part of a larger initiative aimed at enhancing child nutrition through improved local food production. This initiative will secure a steady supply of safe and affordable egg powder derived from local sources, aligning with UNICEF’s nutritional objectives and Ethiopia’s developmental goals.
Central to this initiative is the innovative “Egg Powder in a Box” concept developed by Steve Manton, a trustee of the International Egg Foundation, alongside Philip van Bosstraeten from Ovobel Engineering. This concept transforms fresh shell eggs into a durable, high-quality ingredient suitable for various nutrition programs, including school feeding and specialized dietary needs.
A Consistent Supply of Nutrients
UNICEF acknowledges eggs as a critical nutrient-rich food source that provides high-quality protein and vital micronutrients essential for children’s development. The organization recommends incorporating eggs into diverse diets for children, especially in areas where access to fresh eggs may be inconsistent.
Prior to being transformed into powder, liquid eggs undergo processing through a tubular pasteurization unit, which is crucial for guaranteeing microbiological safety and ensuring compliance with food safety standards. The inclusion of a box dryer within the processing system facilitates effective drying and handling while maintaining product quality and safety.
Collaborative Efforts for Implementation
The International Egg Foundation is offering technical direction and ongoing support to guarantee the successful setup and operation of the facility. UNICEF is spearheading the program implementation focusing on enhancing child nutrition, bolstering local food systems, and assessing the potential for replication in other nations.
Supporting this effort, Ovobel Belgium is responsible for supplying and installing the egg powder processing equipment, while Vision Foods will manage the processing plant in Ethiopia. The Ethiopian Ministry of Agriculture and the Ministry of Health also provide critical support, ensuring the project aligns with national agricultural and nutritional strategies and facilitating equipment importation.
A Model for Broader Implementation Across Africa
This new facility will utilize locally produced eggs, enhancing Ethiopia’s domestic value chain and addressing pressing child food poverty issues. Egg powder serves as a cost-efficient substitute for existing nutritional components, offering longer shelf life and simplifying storage and distribution.
UNICEF regards this project as a potential template for establishing similar facilities in other countries, with prospects for scaling production or exporting egg powder to other parts of Africa.
Installation of the plant is expected to be completed by the second quarter of this year.
