U of I students visit Guatemala to assist SoyCow operations
Published: Feb. 2, 2010
In January, University of Illinois students studying agricultural economics and finance traveled to Central America for a 10-day study abroad opportunity. The students left the comforts of central Illinois to better understand some of the food-related challenges of Guatemala, and to provide assistance in improving small-scale soymilk processing.
"Our trip to Guatemala provided a special learning opportunity for students," said Nicholas Paulson, U of I assistant professor of agricultural and consumer economics. "For many of the 18 students who participated, it was their first travel outside the U.S. For almost all, it was their first experience visiting a developing country."
The focus of the students' activities was to develop a business plan and related recommendations for "SoyCow" operations in Guatemala. A SoyCow is a tabletop processing system that can grind and cook whole soybeans into soymilk, also yielding a useful byproduct called "okara" or soy pulp. A SoyCow can process 4 pounds of raw soybeans into 4 gallons of soymilk in about 20 minutes. The soymilk can then be further processed to make yogurt, tofu, and other soy foods. The fiber-rich pulp is often used as a meat extender or used in breads, spreads, and many other foods.
Over the past few years, humanitarian aid organizations have donated SoyCow machines and soybeans to Guatemala and other developing countries worldwide. Rotary International facilitates donations of these soymilk processors in Guatemala. The machines offer employment opportunities for three to six people while providing important nutrition to hundreds.
SoyCows have been provided to important service organizations, including children's orphanages, hospitals, and community schools. In addition to feeding the people they serve, the organizations generate income by selling excess soy products to local markets. Students visited SoyCow sites in Guatemala City, Antigua, and Retalhuleu.
"Our students were charged with developing business plans and recommendations to make these small-scale soymilk processing businesses more successful and more sustainable," Paulson said. "Perhaps the greatest educational benefit for the students was to personally experience the culture and business climate in a developing country such as Guatemala."
"The primary goal of our travels was to observe Guatemala's customs, analyze business practices, and develop a sustainable plan to ensure a successful future for its SoyCow operations," said Mike Howlett, U of I student of agricultural business. "However, on our 10-day journey across Guatemala, we accomplished much more.
"This trip produced memories and insights I will never forget. Experiencing the Guatemalan culture from a behind-the-scenes point of view has had a great impact on my view of the world. Many of the things I take for granted in the U.S. I now have a better appreciation for. I have a deeper understanding of third world countries, and will strive to give back to the struggling and impoverished peoples of the world. The immense selflessness demonstrated by countless individuals has inspired me to become a better, more generous individual."
Program funding was provided by the U of I College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences (ACES) Arlus Conrad International Teaching Enhancement Award; the National Soybean Research Laboratory; and the Center for Latin American and Caribbean Studies.
Editor's note: A high resolution digital file is available to use with this story at http://www.aces.uiuc.edu/news/News_Photos/Guatemala/