Seven baobab species, among six of them, are found in Madagascar on the nine existing in the world. In addition to its biological values (keystone species of ecosystems), ecotourism and use (pharmacopoeia, rope, cosmetics), the baobab is recognized for its nutritional value, both for its fruits, its seeds (oleaginous) and its leaves.

To date, only baobab fruit pulp is the most widely valued component thanks to its high vitamin C content and its high antioxidant capacity. There are very few studies on baobab oil (including its extraction from seeds or the compounds it contains). However, research carried out by the proposing team has shown that the oils extracted from the seeds of the Malagasy's baobabs have nutritional interest because of their richness in antioxidant compounds and vitamins. Depending on the species, they will have a variable fatty acid composition, but also a high content of unsaturated fatty acids. As its use remains marginal, the project proposes to promote them in order to combat the context of food insecurity in Madagascar.

As part of its mission, Volatiana will help to complete information on the micronutrient content of oils and pulp of Malagasy's baobabs, depending on the species and location. To support the development of the production and consumption of baobab oils and pulp, this project aims to transfert optimized technologies to maximize the processes of its production, conservation and availability.

The mission will be carried out at CIRAD in Saint Pierre. Volatiana will work in close collaboration with Cyrielle Garcia (UMR QualiSud).

This mission in part of the INTERREG-V Qualinnov project, co-funded by the European Union and the Reunion Region.