MAKING MONEY FROM HOME

Globally, popcorn is considered a high-value crop. Prices can be double or triple those of regular maize. Popcorn is a source of fibre, protein, complex carbohydrates and vitamins, and also has a low fat and sodium content. The USA is the world’s major producer of popcorn grain and seed. In 2007, a total of 400 000t of popcorn grain were produced from 81 300ha. Approximately 80% of the crop is consumed within the USA, while the remainder is exported to more than 90 countries, including Mexico, Turkey and Brazil.

Africa lags behind in popcorn production despite a steady increase in consumption world-wide, but this is set to change, in South Africa at least, says Phumelele Jele, Deputy Manager: Agricultural Scientific Services: KwaZulu-Natal Department of Agriculture and Rural Development. The University of KwaZulu-Natal, supported by the province’s department of agriculture, is conducting extensive research into hybrids that can be produced under dryland conditions.