Abstract
This study, entitled Development and Consumer Acceptability of Malunggay (Moringa oleifera) and Banana Blossom (Musa acuminata) Snack Crackers – Techno Guide, is anchored on national and institutional frameworks that promote innovation, food security, and public health. It supports the objectives of the Philippine Innovation Act (Republic Act No. 11293), which underscores innovation as a catalyst for sustainable national development, and is consistent with the Philippine Constitution’s recognition of science and technology as essential drivers of progress. Furthermore, the study aligns with the Joint NEDA–DOST–DTI Administrative Order No. 01, Series of 2020, which emphasizes innovation-led strategies in addressing economic growth and food security concerns. The utilization of locally available and underutilized agricultural resources, such as malunggay and banana blossom, promotes inclusive innovation, supports small-scale food enterprises, and contributes to sustainable economic and social development. The theoretical foundation of the study is drawn from Allen’s Theory of Food (2012), which conceptualizes food as an outcome of interconnected social, economic, and environmental systems. The development of vegetable-based snack crackers using malunggay and banana blossom reflects sustainable food innovation by maximizing the nutritional potential of accessible, affordable, and culturally relevant crops. This approach contributes to improved nutrition, reduced food waste, and strengthened community-based food systems. In addition, the Theory of Planned Behavior (Ajzen, 1991), further refined through the Reasoned Action Approach (Fishbein & Ajzen, 2020), provides a framework for examining consumer acceptability. The theory explains how attitudes toward health and sensory attributes, perceived social norms from family and school communities, and perceived behavioral control related to product availability and affordability influence students’ intentions to consume vegetable-based snack products. This study is further aligned with DepEd Order No. 13, s. 2017, which mandates the provision of nutritious and health-promoting food options in schools to address malnutrition and obesity among learners. The development of malunggay and banana blossom snack crackers supports this directive by offering a nutritious alternative to commercially processed snacks. Moreover, the study complements the objectives of the Gulayan sa Paaralan Program by encouraging the use of school-grown vegetables in value-added food production. Integrating these nutrient-dense crops into snack products reinforces the connection between agriculture, nutrition, and education, while addressing the Double Burden of Malnutrition identified by the World Health Organization. Overall, the study contributes to the promotion of healthy eating habits, food security, and sustainable nutrition interventions within the school setting.
