Utilizing Banana Blossom in High-Fiber Chicken Nugget Production to Enhance Family Nutrition in Cintaratu, Pangandaran

Abstract

The Utilization of banana blossom in Cintaratu, Pangandaran remains sub-optimal, despite its abundance as a local food resource rich in dietary fiber and essential nutrients. Conversely, commercial nuggets, categorized as Ultra-Processed Food (UPF), are widely consumed despite lacking dietary fiber. This community service program aimed to enhance the knowledge and skills of residents in Cintaratu, particularly The PKK’s women group, in processing banana blossom into fiber-rich nuggets to support family nutrition. The methodology adopted a participatory action approach consisting of preparation (material drafting, formulation trial and partner coordination), training (nutrition education, demonstration, and hands-on practice), and evaluating using pre-test and post-test instruments across 10 assesment indicators. The evaluation results revealed a significant improvement in participants’ knowledge and technical skills. Prior to the training, responses were dominated both by “unknowledgeable” and “Moderately Knowledgeable” 44%. Post-training, unknowledgeable categories were completely eliminated, shifting predominantly to “Knowledgeable” (79%) and “Highly Knowledgeable” (16%). This program successfully transformed low-values local produce into a functional, fiber-rich food innovation, improved participants’ hygiene practices, and fostered local entrepreneurship potential in Cintaratu Village.