Guidelines for Judging Agro-Processing Expo Competition
The following guidelines provide a framework for evaluating the participants
in an agro-processing expo competition, particularly when assessing value-
added agricultural products. Judges should consider each criterion carefully
to ensure a fair, comprehensive, and consistent evaluation.
1. Product Innovation and Creativity
Originality: How unique is the product compared to existing products?
Does it offer a new or improved feature?
Creativity: Is there a creative approach to transforming raw materials
into the final product?
Value-Addition: How effectively has the participant enhanced the
value of raw agricultural produce through processing?
2. Product Quality and Presentation
Visual Appeal: Is the product well-packaged and visually attractive?
Does the presentation meet industry standards?
Quality Control: Are the ingredients or raw materials of high quality?
Is there evidence of maintaining good production practices?
Labeling: Does the product have proper labeling, including ingredient
list, nutritional information, and expiration date (if required)?
3. Product Taste/Usability (if applicable)
Flavor: Is the product flavorful and appealing to the target market?
Texture/Consistency: Does the product have the appropriate texture
or consistency for its category (e.g., crunchy, smooth)?
Usability/Functionality: For non-edible products, how functional or
easy to use is the product?
4. Sustainability and Environmental Impact
Use of Local Raw Materials: Does the product make use of locally
sourced ingredients, reducing the need for imports?
Eco-Friendly Packaging: Is the packaging biodegradable or
recyclable, showing environmental consciousness?
Sustainable Production Practices: Does the production process
promote sustainability (e.g., waste reduction, water/energy efficiency)?
5. Marketability and Commercial Potential
Target Market: Is there a clear understanding of the target market for
the product?
Scalability: Can the product be produced on a larger scale while
maintaining quality?
Consumer Demand: Does the product cater to a growing demand in
the market?
6. Business Plan and Financial Feasibility
Costing and Pricing: Is the pricing structure appropriate for the
market and competitive? Are the costs for production well-managed?
Profitability: Is the product likely to generate a profit based on the
costs and projected sales?
Feasibility: Is there a realistic business plan that supports sustainable
growth?
7. Social Impact
Community Benefits: Does the product create a positive impact on
the local community (e.g., employment, local sourcing)?
Empowerment: Does the product contribute to the empowerment of
marginalized groups (e.g., women, youth, small farmers)?
8. Health and Safety Considerations
Food Safety (for edible products): Are food safety standards met,
including hygiene, proper storage, and handling?
Non-toxic Ingredients (for non-edible products): Are the
ingredients safe and free from harmful chemicals?
Expiration and Shelf Life: Is the product labeled correctly with
expiration dates and storage instructions?