Phitsanulok:A group of large-scale fish farmers in Phitsanulok has collaborated to process red tilapia that do not meet market size demands into sausages. This initiative aims to add value to their produce, generate income, and provide working capital for the community members.

According to Thai News Agency, the Tha Takian Fish Farm Community Enterprise, located in the Chom Thong Subdistrict of the Mueang District, consists of eight members who raise red tilapia in cages in the Nan River. To add value to their fish, the group uses red tilapia from independent farmers within their community to produce fish sausages.

Ms. Umaporn Boonkwang, a member of the enterprise, explained that the group has chosen to raise fish independently, avoiding contracts with large companies. This independence allows them to set their own selling prices, although it requires them to invest in fish fry, feed, and other resources themselves. Previously, the high costs associated with contract farming led to minimal profits despite large sales volumes, prompting their shift to independent farming.

The sausage processing project emerged from challenges such as fish not aligning with market demands, which led to lower prices and occasional refusals from middlemen. To tackle these issues, the group began processing smaller fish into sausages, receiving recipe guidance from the Phitsanulok Provincial Fisheries Office, and refining the recipe over the past 5-6 years.

The sausages comprise a mix of diced fish meat, minced fish from Siamese carp, minced pork, curry paste, sugar, MSG, and kaffir lime leaves. They produce three types of sausages small sausages, sausages similar to Northern Thai sausage, and long, stick-shaped sausages, without adding preservatives. The sausages are sold at 450 baht per kilogram, highlighting the quality of fish raised in the Nan River, which results in firm and flavorful meat.

Currently, the group markets its products at the agricultural market in front of the Phitsanulok Provincial Hall every Friday, at the agricultural fair, and online. This initiative has proven successful in generating satisfactory income for the group. Those interested in purchasing can follow their Facebook page 'Sausage of Tilapia from Muang Song Kwae' or contact Ms. Umaporn Boonkwang directly.