Small-scale food processing is important worldwide. For individual processors, it is highly accessible as a start-up business, especially for women; farmers and fishermen can readily diversify into processing to increase their incomes; and high added-value enables processors to earn an income from relatively small scales of production. For policy makers, small-scale food processing can create employment, increase food security and improve nutritional standards.

Written by an experienced food technologist and author, this book provides comprehensive technical and business information on all aspects of small-scale food processing in a single text. From how to assess the market, to primary and secondary processing, packaging, managing food safety and finances, the book covers all the technical details and up-to-date information needed by a food processor. It is written in simple language suitable for the non-specialist and also for people who have English as a second language.

This manual is essential reading for existing or potential food business owners to improve their processing operations, and increase profitability. It is also intended as a guide and reference book for advisers and staff in organizations that support small-scale food processing businesses, for trainers on courses in food science and technology, and a reference book for students studying these subjects. Sections of the manual may also be useful to policy makers, program managers and others in government or third sector organizations, who wish to use food processing to promote economic development or to improve food security.