Addis ababa: The Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research (EIAR) has unveiled a new probiotic starter culture named 'Etittuu,' which enables the fermentation of milk. The institute officially launched the product during a joint discussion forum and exhibition organized in connection with World Milk Day.
According to Ethiopian News Agency, Agriculture Ministry Advisor and State Minister Ifa Muleta stated that the 'Etittuu' probiotic starter culture will help save foreign currency by substituting imported products. It is expected to significantly contribute to increasing the productivity of milk and dairy products in Ethiopia. He emphasized that this innovation supports the government's broader efforts to strengthen food security and nutrition under the country's agricultural policy framework.
Muleta also highlighted the positive outcomes recorded under the Yelemat Tirufat (Bounty of the Basket) Initiative, initiated by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed. The program has generated improvements in dairy production and has stimulated investment and encouraged greater private-sector participation in the livestock and dairy sectors. The launch of the 'Etittuu' probiotic starter culture is anticipated to further energize producers and stakeholders across the dairy value chain.
EIAR Director General, Professor Niguse Dechassa, remarked that the newly developed probiotic starter culture will reduce foreign currency expenditure on imported starter cultures. It will enable pasteurized milk to be fermented within four hours, enhancing efficiency in dairy processing. He noted that milk and dairy products are among the key agricultural commodities researched by the institute.
The Director General underscored the institute's contribution to the agricultural sector through the development of improved crop and livestock varieties based on scientific research. He mentioned that various biotechnology-assisted research projects focusing on improving dairy productivity are currently underway.