Techno-Economic Feasibility of Winged Bean Seed Oil and Protein Meal Production
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.36877/aafrj.a0000623Abstract
The rising demand for plant-based protein and oil, coupled with Malaysia’s heavy reliance on imported soybeans, has underscored the need for alternative local crops, especially winged bean (Psophocarpus tetragonolobus). This study evaluates the nutritional potential and processing feasibility of winged bean seeds (WBS) as a substitute for soybean, focusing on proximate composition, process simulation, and techno-economic viability. Proximate analysis revealed that WBS are rich in protein (~36.05–41.13%) and oil (11.07–16.02%), comparable to commercial soybeans, supporting their potential for conventional oil extraction and protein-rich meal production. A process simulation was developed to assess oil and protein meal production, followed by a techno-economic analysis. The results showed strong economic indicators, including a short payback period (3.17 years), an internal rate of return (IRR) exceeding 45%, and a positive net present value (NPV), highlighting the commercial promise of WBS processing. Sensitivity analysis identified WBS price, product prices, and oil content as key economic drivers, while higher processing capacities improved financial performance. This study positions WBS as a sustainable and economically viable crop for enhancing national food and feed security while reducing dependence on soybean imports. Future work should focus on agronomic optimisation and integration into existing agro-industrial frameworks.
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