Level 3
Value Addition
Learn to ask: what can this product become?
Instead of only asking how much a raw product sells for, ask what it could become and who would buy it. This level introduces value addition, shows how to choose an idea with a real buyer, and teaches you to check the numbers with a small test.
Farmers, processors, young entrepreneurs and anyone who wants to earn more from the same raw product, with or without owning a farm.
How this level is written
The lessons are practical teaching suggestions written by AfricAgric. The reading list is background reading, not the source of every sentence. Examples with numbers are invented and say so. Use the level as a way to think, then check facts and rules for your own place.
What you will learn
- Explain what value addition is and give examples of several kinds.
- List several things one raw product could become, and who might buy each.
- Choose one idea and describe why a buyer would pay more for it.
- Name the quality and safety questions to answer before you sell a processed product.
- Compare selling raw with selling a processed product, using your own numbers from a small test.
Where this level fits
This level is the idea stage. Levels 4 to 6 (processing, packaging and storage) are about how to make the product well. The module 'Building a value-added food processing business' on this site is a detailed worked example you can follow after this level.
Parts of this level
- Part 1What can this product become?One raw product can become several, each with a different buyer.
- Part 2Matching products to buyersA product only has more value if someone is willing to pay for it.
- Part 3Quality, safety and consistencyBuyers come back for products that are safe and the same every time.
- Part 4Start small and check the numbersTest a small batch and compare it fairly with selling raw.
- WorkbookAll exercises from this level in one place, with space to think and a printable layout.
- QuizCheck what you learned. Answers and short explanations are hidden until you choose to show them.
Related
Not advice
This level is educational. It is not legal, financial, regulatory, nutritional or medical advice. Rules, fees and programmes change, so check every requirement with the authority named before you act.
Background reading
- Value from village processing (Diversification booklet 4) — Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), Peter Fellows
- Developing Sustainable Food Value Chains: Guiding Principles — Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), 2014