Techno economic Evaluation, Production and Characterization of Molasses and Vinegar from Nypa fruticans sap

Nypa fruticans sap yields profitable molasses and vinegar in Bangladesh. This underutilised mangrove bioresource offers strong techno-economic potential plus valuable nutritional benefits. Fresh sap (87.1% moisture, 42.1% total sugars) was processed into energy-dense molasses (26.7% moisture, 86.1% sugars, 302 kcal/100g) via concentration and high-acidity vinegar (7.7–8.8% acidity, <1.3% residual sugars) via sequential fermentation. A 12-month analysis confirmed safety, with microbial loads below standard limits (Total Plate Count <10 CFU/g). Techno-economic evaluation superior profitability for vinegar, yielding a Net Present Value (NPV) of USD 7,800–52,100 per hectare, an Internal Rate of Return (IRR) of 28–45%, and a 2.1–3.5-year payback period, outperforming Nypa molasses (NPV: USD 4,150–32,400; IRR: 22–40%). Sensory evaluation (9-point hedonic scale, n=30) showed for vinegar (taste scores: 7.9–8.5) over molasses (6.2–6.5). This research confirms Nypa vinegar’s value, urging pilot projects for jobs, mangrove conservation, and agro-industry growth.