Josefina Ballesteros

National Economic and Development Authority, Republic of the Philippines | NEDAPH

This study determined consumers’ awareness and interest towards mushroom and mushroom-based product ideas. A survey of 222 adults was conducted in rice-based farming communities in selected provinces, namely, Aurora, Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, and Pampanga. Results showed that taste, nutritional, and health benefits were the top attributes considered by...

The lockdowns and other Covid-10 containment measures resulted in disruptions in the food systems such as reduced production capacities and changes in demand and consumption patterns. Recent articles show that short food supply chains (SFSC) and local food systems, particularly in Italy, seem to exhibit resilience amidst this crisis and continued t...

This research aimed to develop farmers become sustainable hyperlocal wealth-creators through community enterprise development (CED). The development of a rice-based enterprise started with a focus group (FGD) among 15 farmer-leaders (60% male, 40% female) of a group in Macarse, Zaragoza, Nueva Ecija, Philippines. The participants discussed and gene...

Processing adds value to agricultural products, making them more nutritious and economically competitive. Brown rice, by its unremoved bran, contains substantial amounts of protein, dietary fiber, minerals and vitamins; while buffalo’s milk has higher protein and calcium and lower cholesterol than other dairy milks. These were suitable ingredients...

Development and marketing of rice-based products provide additional income in rice-producing communities, which ultimately enhances their quality of life. This study explored experts' perception on health and wellness through focus group discussions (FGD, n=24) and determined consumer trends on products and acceptability of rice-based products thro...

Diet quality is a major determinant of household food and nutrition security. This study evaluated the food intake, diet diversity, and quality associated with the nutritional status of rice-based farm households using the three-day 24-hour food recall data collected in a survey of 953 randomly selected rice-based farm household members in Central...

Mothers play key roles in the development of children’s eating behavior, food consumption, and nutrition. This study primarily aimed to determine the maternal factors associated with child nutrition. A cross-sectional community survey was conducted in rice-based farm households in Central Luzon to obtain anthropometric measurements from 275 childre...