Coconut sugar farmers in Susukan Village, Banyumas Regency, have benefited from a natural preservative solution called Tangkis. This innovation was developed through research by Karseno, SP, MP, PhD, a lecturer at the Faculty of Agriculture at Jenderal Soedirman University (Unsoed). One of the farmers, Solihin, has been using this solution for over a decade.
According to Solihin, the Tangkis solution has been in use since 2012 and has significantly aided the production process. He feels more at ease now, as he no longer struggles to find suitable preservatives.
“Since Unsoed provided the solution, we are no longer confused. Previously, we relied on chemicals that were sometimes available and at other times not. Now, we simply need to notify them when we are running low,” said Solihin on Thursday (07/06).
The Tangkis solution is a powder designed to preserve the quality of palm sap from microbial damage. High-quality palm sap results in brown sugar that has a brighter color, a solid and hard texture, and low water content. These qualities make coconut sugar products more competitive and able to meet export standards.
Many farmers continue to use synthetic preservatives like sulfites and sodium metabisulfite. However, these substances contain toxic and potentially carcinogenic compounds. The Tangkis solution offers a safer and more environmentally friendly alternative by using natural ingredients such as betel leaves, mangosteen fruit, jackfruit wood, the sulatri tree, and sampan.
Solihin mentioned that the production process has also become more comfortable. “Production is now calmer. The ingredients are safe, and distribution is fast. It helps a lot,” he added.
He hopes that Unsoed will not only distribute the solution but also continue to assist farmers in product development. For him, support from the university is crucial for enabling farmers to produce higher quality sugar at a more reasonable price.
“If possible, Unsoed could also help us sell sugar at a better price,” he expressed.
The Tangkis solution has been tested on over 700 sugar craftsmen in the Somagede District of Banyumas and has received positive feedback from them. The beneficial impact of the research and services provided by Unsoed lecturers, exemplified by the Tangkis solution, has also been felt by the community in Ujunggagak Village, Kampung Laut District, Cilacap Regency.
In collaboration with Al-Irsyad University Cilacap (UNAIC), Unsoed is implementing appropriate technology for processing coconut sap in the village, with support from the Cilacap Regency Government. Additionally, Unsoed plans to collaborate with third parties to scale up production of this solution. This initiative aims to reach more brown sugar centers in Banyumas and the surrounding areas.
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