The Office of Academic Service, Khon Kaen University (KKU), has partnered with the Community Relations Division of Mitr Kalasin Sugar Mill to advance grassroots economic development. They launched the “Promoting Occupations and Adding Value to Agricultural Products” programme, which focuses on transforming the indigenous “special-grade peanuts” cultivated by the Som Saad Peanut Community Enterprise into premium, plant-based protein products, thereby enhancing branding and ensuring sustainable income generation for the community.
The activity took place on 25 November 2025 at the Som Saad Sub-district Administrative Organisation in Kuchinarai District, Kalasin Province. This initiative aims to directly address the goals of the BCG (Bio-Circular-Green Economy) economic model by converting locally sourced biological materials, specifically peanuts, into high-value, innovative products.
Assistant Professor Surapol Nesusin, Ph.D., Vice Director for Academic Service, stated: “This collaboration directly delivers Khon Kaen University’s knowledge and innovation to the community. We invited an expert team, led by Dr. Phongphan Sattrathip from the Faculty of Business Administration and Accountancy, and Chef Jaguar-Teeravee Disayachaipong from the Thai Chefs Federation, to develop standard recipes for three new products: peanut butter, crispy peanut brittle, and peanut milk. The objective is to create unique flavour profiles, extend shelf life, and, significantly, elevate ordinary peanuts into premium health foods suitable for the modern market.”
While the Som Saad community was traditionally renowned for processing peanuts into peanut brittle and sand-roasted varieties, this programme leverages that existing local wisdom into higher-innovation products. It capitalises on the inherent strengths of the local “Golden Peanut” (‘Thua Thong’), a specially selected variety that is naturally high in protein, low in fat, and boasts full kernels, perfectly aligning with contemporary health and wellness trends.
Mr. Sumit Kul-ajsri, Chief Executive of the Som Saad Sub-district Administrative Organisation, expressed appreciation for the working teams from Khon Kaen University and Mitr Kalasin: “This programme provides a critical opportunity for our community to learn from national chefs and specialists, allowing us to diversify our offerings. Where previously we primarily sold raw materials and basic processed goods, the development of these new products will significantly boost the income of our community enterprise members.”
Furthermore, the project strictly adheres to the principles of the Circular Economy. Production residues, such as peanut shells, can be processed into organic fertiliser for soil enrichment, fostering a zero-waste system and cultivating sustainable agricultural practices. This initiative serves as a model for community enhancement, maximizing the utility of biological resources and building a resilient economy directly from the community’s foundation.
