The number of food drying businesses in developing countries is increasing and the impact that they can have on socio-economic development is marked. Small-scale food processing enterprises add value to local production by supplying local and export markets with dried products. Before embarking on such an undertaking, Setting Up a Food Drying Business guides the project planner systematically through the stages involved and considers the advantages and constraints that are particular to this sector. Taking a global approach to its subject, the guide contains four separate but complementary chapters: The first chapter sets out the general context when creating a small-scale food drying business. Chapter 2 provides a methodological account of the procedures for setting up an enterprise. It covers market identification, technical choices, quality processes and economic analysis. Chapter 3 covers the different markets for small-scale drying businesses and includes technical notes on the main dryers available. The final chapter examines avenues for improving the profitability of a drying business and adapting dryers to suit different businesses. Extensive appendices provide document templates, sample business analyses and vital reference information. Setting up a Food Drying Business is essential for people setting up food drying projects. It provides the reader with the prior information and tools necessary for starting such a business. It is also of interest to those in partner organizations who wish to develop a better understanding of this important sector.

Fabrice Thuillier