POLIJE STUDENTS INNOVATE “PAKCOO” VEGETABLE COOKIES TO COMBAT CHILD STUNTING

Students from the Applied Bachelor’s Program in Agroindustry Management at Politeknik Negeri Jember (Polije) have developed an innovative food product called “Pakcoo”—vegetable-based cookies designed to help prevent stunting in toddlers. This initiative aims to address the persistent issue of child stunting in Indonesia by providing a nutritious and appealing snack option for young children.

The “Pakcoo” cookies are formulated using a blend of vegetables rich in essential nutrients necessary for child growth and development. By incorporating these ingredients, the students aim to create a snack that not only appeals to children’s tastes but also contributes to their nutritional needs.

Recognizing that stunting is often linked to chronic malnutrition, particularly in the first 1,000 days of a child’s life, the students focused on creating a product that could be easily integrated into children’s diets. The cookies are designed to be both nutritious and enjoyable, encouraging regular consumption among toddlers.

The development process involved careful selection of ingredients to ensure the cookies provide a balanced mix of vitamins and minerals. The students also considered factors such as taste, texture, and shelf life to make the product viable for wider distribution and consumption.

This innovation aligns with Polije’s commitment to fostering practical solutions to real-world problems through student-led initiatives. By addressing a critical public health issue with a food-based approach, the students demonstrate the potential of agroindustry innovations in improving community well-being.

The “Pakcoo” project has garnered attention for its potential impact on child nutrition and its innovative approach to combating stunting. The students plan to conduct further research and development to refine the product and explore opportunities for scaling up production and distribution. (rda)