In an effort to strengthen regional food security, Universitas Brawijaya collaborates with the Regional Planning, Research, and Development Agency (BAPPEDALITBANG) of Tuban Regency to prepare a roadmap for local food diversification based on non-rice carbohydrate sources. This activity involves a team of experts from the Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Brawijaya led by Prof. Dr. Ir. Setyono Yudo Tyasmoro, M.S., SYR, with team members Dr. Rosihan Asmara, S.P., M.P., Dr. Fahriyah, S.P., M.Si., and Susanti Evie Sulistiowati, S.P., M.P.
The study entitled Roadmap for Diversification of Local Food Sources of Non-Rice Carbohydrates aims to utilize the potential of local foods such as corn, cassava, and sweet potatoes as alternative sources of carbohydrates. Prof. Dr. Setyono Yudo Tyasmoro explained that the preparation of the roadmap was carried out comprehensively, considering the potential of natural resources, challenges, and implementation strategies.
“We involve many parties, from local governments, communities, research institutions, to the private sector, to map the opportunities and obstacles that exist. Hopefully, this roadmap can be a guide for developing sustainable local food,” said Prof. Yudo.
The Head of BAPPEDALITBANG Tuban Regency emphasized the importance of this collaboration to support the regional vision in increasing food security and community welfare. “Tuban Regency has great potential to develop local foods such as corn, cassava, and sweet potatoes. With this roadmap, it is hoped that farmers can be more prosperous and dependence on rice can be reduced,” he said.
Universitas Brawijaya team also identified a number of challenges in food diversification, such as access to modern agricultural technology, lack of community knowledge, and minimal infrastructure. As a solution, the team designed training to empower local farmers and introduce environmentally friendly agricultural technology to increase production.
With this roadmap, Tuban Regency is expected to become a pioneer in local food diversification in Indonesia. Cross-sector collaboration involving the government, universities, and the private sector is expected to create a sustainable food ecosystem.
This step is not only aimed at reducing dependence on rice, but also increasing farmers’ income and the welfare of the community as a whole. Tuban Regency is also expected to become a leading local food producing region in Indonesia. (RSH/UB PR/ Trans. Iir)
