Technical training on grape processing in Beit Ummar, Hebron

The technical training on grapes processing took place in Beit Ummar (Hebron)during the month of October 2019.

The training, organized by the Palestinian Ministry of Agriculture (MoA), was held by Eng. Fuad Alqraa and involved 20 members of women’s association from Beit Ummar.

The training was structured in four sessions and aimed at: 

• Providing an introduction to grape processing focusing on different types of processing methods and products (jams, juices etc.) and safety and quality standards;
• Analyzing and assessing women’s current production methods and addressing the main weaknesses identified;
• Providing an overview on packaging and storage conditions; 
• Providing detailed information on grape syrup processing;

The training sessions aimed at enhancing the skills of the trainees in grape processing, starting from their broad previous knowledge and practices, that were analyzed to identify and address the weak points in order to improve production methods and the quality of products. The training included theoretical and practical, hands-on sessions, where women could compare batches of molasses and grape syrup produced using different methods.  

As a result of the training, women have increased their knowledge and learned more efficient and safe methods to process, package and storage grapes according to safety and quality standards. Grape syrup, a product new to the women, was introduced as an alternative way to process grapes and to diversify the offer.  

Increasing knowledge and improving practices on food processing is a key element to enhance the commercialization capacity and sustainability of a key economic activity for women in the target area and learning opportunities as offered by this training are fundamental also to strengthen women’s self-awareness as competent, skilled producers.