The 2024 Doktor Mengabdi (Dokar) Program, organized by DRPM-UB, held an initiative titled Enhancing Virgin Coconut Oil Productivity through Quality Testing Support and Improvement of Production Facilities for KWT Vigur Asri.

The team included Dr. Ir. Erni Yudaningtyas, M.T. from the Faculty of Engineering, Ir. D.J. Djoko H. Santjojo, M.Phil., Ph.D. and Prof. Dr. Estri Laras Arumingtyas, M.Sc.St. from the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, as well as Prof. Dr. dr. Nurdiana, M.Kes. from the Faculty of Medicine, along with several active students.

This program was carried out with the Women Farmers Group (KWT) Vigur Asri in Cemorokandang, Malang, which already produces Virgin Coconut Oil (VCO) under certified licenses, including IUMK, PIRT, and halal certification. However, the quality of their VCO had yet to be tested according to BPOM and Codex standards, which assess moisture content, free fatty acid levels, and peroxide values.

On July 13–14, 2024, the team held a training session and supported VCO moisture content testing in Cemorokandang. Three KWT Vigur Asri representatives attended, learning about the BPOM and Codex standards for moisture levels. They were trained in two methods for testing moisture content: heating at around 103°C for 3 hours or 130°C for 30 minutes.

As a result of the training, KWT Vigur Asri is now capable of testing VCO moisture levels independently, meeting established standards. Further testing was conducted at the FTP Laboratory at Universitas Brawijaya for moisture, free fatty acid, and peroxide levels.

“The lab results confirm that the VCO produced meets BPOM and Codex standards,” stated Dr. Erni.

In addition to guidance, the Dokar team also provided production equipment such as bottle sterilizers, storage cabinets, work tables, chairs, and stainless steel washing tubs. These tools are expected to facilitate easier cleaning of production equipment, thus improving the quality of VCO produced.

This initiative aims to strengthen KWT Vigur Asri’s understanding of quality standards and improve their VCO productivity, enabling them to compete in a broader market. The project also hopes to encourage more sustainable, hygienic, and efficient production.

“We believe that this program not only aids KWT in technical and facility aspects but also opens opportunities for KWT Vigur Asri to develop more competitive products that meet national quality standards,” concluded Dr. Erni.