JA Fruits & Vegetables Processing, headquartered in San Mateo, Rizal, Philippines, is a women-led SME focused on value-added munggo (mung bean) product innovation. Under the leadership of entrepreneur Jenni Agcaoili, the enterprise has emerged as a pioneer in munggo-based functional foods and health snacks, catering to both urban and rural markets with nutrient-dense, affordable food solutions.
Core Business
The core business of JA Fruits & Vegetables Processing lies in the development, processing, and packaging of munggo-derived food products, aligning with the Department of Agriculture's goal of promoting indigenous crops. The company’s work supports both livelihood creation and food security by upcycling locally grown mung beans into convenient, health-forward formats.
Product and Service Offerings
JA Fruits & Vegetables Processing has developed a product portfolio centered around munggo (Vigna radiata), which includes:
- Munggo Noodles:
- High-fiber, gluten-free alternative to wheat noodles.
- Used in school feeding programs and dietary applications.
- Munggo Crisps:
- Oven-baked, crunchy snacks made from munggo flour and legumes.
- Low in oil and sodium, designed for health-conscious consumers.
- Munggo Coffee:
- Caffeine-free alternative beverage.
- Marketed as a gut-friendly, antioxidant-rich drink.
- Munggo Nutri-Meal:
- Nutritional blend for feeding centers and relief packs.
- Balanced macronutrients for emergency food programs.
These offerings are packed under the brand “J&A Munggo” and cater to a wide demographic, from students to senior citizens.
Specialization and Core USP
JA Fruits & Vegetables Processing differentiates itself through:
- Exclusive focus on munggo-based processing and innovation.
- Use of locally sourced beans from Philippine farmers, supporting agrarian livelihoods.
- Partnerships with LGUs and government feeding programs, especially in health and nutrition-focused areas.
- Development of products addressing malnutrition and micronutrient deficiency.
This impact-oriented approach enhances the brand's relevance in public health and sustainability circles.
Financials
As an early-stage micro-enterprise, financials are not publicly disclosed. However, indicators of performance include:
- Inclusion in regional SME development lists such as DTI’s local food processor registry.
- Secured LGU procurement contracts for Munggo Nutri-Meal used in disaster response packs.
- Grew monthly production capacity to an estimated 300 kg of finished products through upgraded equipment.
These milestones underscore steady growth and institutional support.
Shipment Data
Product distribution is largely domestic but structured for future export readiness:
- Distributed in San Mateo and Metro Manila groceries and health food stores.
- Partnerships with community-based resellers and cooperatives.
- Sample shipments shared through government exhibitions and food fairs (e.g., MSME Caravan).
Products are shelf-stable and labeled in accordance with Philippine FDA guidelines, suitable for B2B and B2C markets.
Target Market
JA Fruits & Vegetables Processing caters to:
- Health-conscious consumers and wellness advocates
- Local government feeding programs
- NGO disaster relief and nutrition projects
- Parents and schools seeking healthier snack and meal alternatives
Their product lines are designed for accessibility, long shelf life, and enhanced nutrition.
Capabilities
- Small-batch production capacity with semi-automated mixers, dryers, and sealers.
- Trained personnel in food safety and munggo recipe formulation.
- Collaboration with local DA and DOST offices for raw material supply and process optimization.
- Active digital outreach via Facebook for brand awareness and community engagement.
This capability mix enables agile product development with community impact.
Certifications and Compliance
- Registered under DTI Philippines as a food manufacturing MSME.
- Compliant with local sanitation and food safety ordinances.
- Packaging meets basic FDA labeling and product information standards.
Plans are underway to pursue full FDA licensing and HACCP compliance to expand distribution channels.
Customer Testimonials
While largely community-based, testimonials include:
- “Munggo crisps are a hit with the kids and surprisingly filling.”
- “Munggo coffee is now my evening drink—great taste without caffeine.”
- “Perfect partner for LGU feeding programs. Nutri-Meal is easy to prepare and nutritious.”
These insights highlight product acceptance and repeat demand.
Major Achievements
- Successfully developed a line of munggo-based functional foods under the J&A Munggo brand.
- Partnered with local cooperatives and farmers for consistent munggo supply.
- Featured in regional DTI trade shows and food exhibitions.
- Contributed to community feeding missions during typhoon relief operations in Rizal.
JA Fruits & Vegetables Processing exemplifies community-driven food innovation, combining health advocacy, local sourcing, and product ingenuity under a mission to elevate the humble mung bean into everyday nutrition essentials.