DOST-I spices up local firm's processing facility in Cabugao, Ilocos Sur
To support the increasing demand for spiced vinegar known as "Inalsem", Onacoli Food Products of Barangay Bonifacio, Cabugao, Ilocos Sur expanded its current production facility with the support of the Department of Science and Technology Provincial Science and Technology Center - Ilocos Sur (DOST PSTC-IS) through the Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP), by acquiring production equipment such as preparation and packaging tables and universal fritter.
With these interventions, the firm can ensure adoption of food safety practices in the preparation of ingredients and the bottling of products, thereby increasing their productivity and capacity in making the "Inalsem".
Onacoli Food Products is a family enterprise owned and managed by Anna Mari Terry. The firm was initially registered as Daddy B's Cravings until it was renamed in 2019 to Onacoli, selling bottles of their unique spiced vinegar tagged as "Inalsem".
Their spiced vinegar is a famous dipping sauce for street food, lechon, longganisa, etc.
Besides its distinct taste, the firm maintains its premium-looking label and packaging, that attracts more resellers nationwide and entices customers to buy the product. Moreover, there are some agencies who place their orders for the spiced vinegar as a token when they have activities.
SETUP, the agency's flagship program for almost two decades now, targets micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to assist them by upgrade existing equipment and facilities that could help boost their products, services, and operations, thereby increasing their productivity and competitiveness.
For interested MSMEs who wish to avail of the program, DOST PSTC-Ilocos Sur can be reached at ilocossur@region1.dost.gov.ph or mobile numbers 0998-962-0231 and 0998-962-0230, respectively. For other MSMEs who wish to avail of the SETUP assistance, they can contact the DOST Regional Offices and Provincial S&T Centers in all the provinces across the country. (By: Laurine R. Sales, DOST-I )
