Thrissur: Kerala Agricultural University has developed a new environment-friendly, nutritious food from the cocoa pod husk and pulp. These new food products were developed from the leftover pod husk and pulp after the manufacturing of chocolate.

Cocoa husk cookies are made from the husk, and the pulp is turned into ready-to-serve soft drinks.

Usually, the leftover husk and pulp after the chocolate production are discarded. If not disposed properly, it will cause the growth of fungi and mosquitoes.

Researchers at the Agricultural University say that the fungus called Phytophthora that grows in these can cause crop loss of up to 40 per cent. It is pointed out that these can also spread diseases in coconut and rubber.

Cocoa Husk cookies are rich in fibre and have higher nutritional value. They are a healthy food suitable for people with diabetics and senior citizens, said Dr J S Minimol, who led the research.

The drink made with cocoa pulp is healthy and full of antioxidants. Steps have been taken to transfer this technology for more production.