Typology Use and Process of Cola Nut (Cola nitida) Produced in Cote d'Ivoire

Abstract

In Côte d'Ivoire, the cola leash maintains financial difficulties due to the increase of post-harvest losses during handling and storage. This investigation based on focus groups was conducted in Ivorian cola nut marketing area (Anyama) to appreciate its use and process. Data showed that cola nuts are characterized par 4 types of colors (white, pink, red and mixed). The major uses of cola nut are for consumption (17.35%), sacrifice (14.23%), dyeing (14%), marriage (13.7%) and baptism (12%). Cola nuts coming from west (Man, Danané, Duekoué, Touleupleu, and Méagui), south (Sikensi and Agboville) and center (Yamoussoukro) zones and with mixed cola nuts are characterized by their resistance and their long shelf life (up to 1 year) than those of San Pedro and Abengourou (6 months). The gathering wood method remains the most commonly used (42%). Machete is the tool preferentially used with 87% to 48% in pod opening and skinning. It should be noted that 86% of actors use chemicals products that are not approved on nuts before packaging. The average losses increased in about 45% at skinning and 20% at storage. 92% of the actors are characterized by a lack of good agricultural practices and hygiene in all the process of cola nut.