Solar Fruit Dehydrators for MicroEntrepreneurs

Our second prototype of solar dehydrator is due to be built this April!

Engineering students at Universidad de Tecnologia Tulancingo, Mexico have been working with ATC to improve efficiency and standardize the drying capacity of the dehydrator.

As Cooperativa K’ux’ya continues using their dehydrators to create unique organic products for the local market around Lake Atitlan. Over the past year they have succeeded with a unique product for Guatemala – organic turmeric powder. Our business coaching helped them identify 5 health food stores around the shores of the Lake to bring their product to clients with little additional work. Low-income farmers in Guatemala work long hours and have a demanding 7-day schedule – whether its gathering firewood and water, caring for their crops and animals, or bringing their goods to market, life is not easy. 

A solar dehydrator helps them make additional income with little additional labor and no extra energy consumption (no more firewood). Now, our second prototype will help them produce dried foods with a higher level of consistency regardless of the weather. The automated solar fans respond to the humidity and temperature monitors so that drying rates remain consistent throughout the day and night. 

Standardization helps small-scale farmers compete in formal markets, selling organic products to formal health food stores, restaurants or super markets. This new solar dehydrator expands opportunities in business for organic farmers while protecting the environment –  growing a trend in small-scale social business in Guatemala.