The development of countries is now mostly dependent on their research and how fast they can convert the results into tangible products and services. Employment of research for industrial development is not being encouraged in developing countries. Developing countries must engage more in research that will contribute positively to their economy. Encouraging collaboration and entrepreneurship within and across different disciplines will serve as impetus to create alternative local products as well as chart a course for a competitive future. The transfer of innovative research and technology from our universities and research centers into the economy can be driven by university lecturers and researchers from institutes.
The antioxidant and antigenotoxic effects of solid state fermented cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) using Rhizopus oligosporus were investigated. Solid state fermentation was carried out for 72 h at room temperature under acidic and basic conditions. Total phenolic content was significantly (p<0.05) higher in fermented peeled and unpeeled cassava at pH 7 and 5 when compared with unfermented. Similarly, the total flavonoid contents of fermented peeled and unpeeled cassava at pH 4 and 7 were significantly (p<0.05) higher than in unfermented. Allium cepa assay was used to assess the antigenotoxic effects of unfermented and fermented peeled and unpeeled cassava. The fermented extracts did not induce chromosomal type aberrations in the treated cells. The present study thus showed that R. oligosporus has the ability to breakdown cassava and considerably increase the antioxidant properties in peeled and unpeeled fermented cassava, which may serve as natural antioxidants in industrial broiler chickens.
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