ADDING VALUE TO KAVA: “THE ORGANIC NAKAMAL”

Kava is a particularly appropriate symbol of Vanuatu’s custom and national identity.

Considering the risks associated with use of plastic tools and contamination of food and drinks, it is very unfortunately that Kava preparation process and consumption today has become dominated by the use of various plastic tool and containers.

To prevent the Kava contamination by micro plastics, it is proposed that some principles should apply within the various market phases from collecting the roots to drinking Kava:

1. Collecting Kava roots – avoid use of tools (dig, clean the roots) with plastic. Alternatively use metal tools.
2. Transporting roots – avoid use of plastic ropes or bags, alternatively use mats made with natural fiber to transport Kava roots
3. Avoid any contact with plastics in the transport and storage of roots
4. Use only clean drinking water that had no contact with any plastic container
5. Use metal or wood tools to cut the roots and grind the Kava
6. Use natural fiber to strain the Kava.Fabrics like cotton, linen, wool, hemp, viscose, modal, and Tencel are not made from oil and do not shed plastic microfibers.
7. Use a metal, wood container when serving the Kava
8. Use coconut or porcelain drinking shells
9. Do not use plastic chairs or tables in your Nakamal
10. Never store your Kava in plastic bottles. Alternatively use well washed glass bottles

Glass bottles, if well washed are reusable many times and do not pose a health issue. We recommend that the Nakamal owner give a value of 50VT to each bottle of 750ml of wine if the client wants to take Kava home. On the return of the washed bottle owners 50VT to the client to minimize littering of glass bottles in the environment.

Improve these standards, cooperate with other Organic Nakamal owners and create a certificate ensure to your clients that you exclusively sell

ORGANIC KAVA FREE OF MICROPLASTICS

Kava, a Plant with a Rich Cultural Heritage. Exploring Potential and Challenges.