by Matt Jerome Casequin
“On a personal level, success means seeing my inventions contribute to a positive impact. Professionally, it’s about the thrill of discovery and constantly pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.” From the classroom to cutting-edge culinary innovation, Joycee France D. Usero, a dedicated teacher with the Department of Education, is transforming the future of sustainable eating with her groundbreaking abaca patty. Her journey from an educator to an inventor and researcher is driven by the joy of sharing knowledge and a relentless quest to explore sustainable solutions. Inspired by trailblazers who have dared to challenge the status quo with plant-based innovations, Joycee's work has culminated in the creation of the abaca patty—a culinary breakthrough that promises to reshape the future of sustainable eating.
The birth of the Abaca patty
The abaca patty, or as Joycee fondly calls it, the "Abac-awesome Patty," is not just another plant-based meat alternative. It is a symbol of hope and empowerment for her family and the abaca farmers who sustain her community. Motivated by the desire to create a delicious and sustainable meat substitute, Joycee turned to abaca fibers, a locally-abundant plant material. The result is a patty that mimics the texture and heartiness of meat while offering a nutritious, plant-based option.
Preparation of Abac-awesome burger patty courtesy of Ms. Usero.
Addressing a global challenge
The environmental impact of meat consumption is a pressing issue, and the abaca patty addresses this head-on. By utilizing a plentiful local crop, this innovation promotes sustainable agriculture and reduces reliance on meat production. The abaca patty has undergone rigorous taste testing, receiving positive feedback based on the hedonic scale. Currently, it is under technology validation through the GALING Program, supported and funded by the Department of Science and Technology - Technology Application and Promotion Institute (DOST TAPI) to undergo laboratory testing.
Perfecting the texture and taste of the abaca patty was no small feat. Through extensive experimentation with processing methods and the use of a customized abaca grinder, Ms. Usero and her team achieved a meaty bite and delicious flavor that consumers love. This success not only highlights Joycee's dedication but also underscores the potential of the abaca patty to revolutionize the plant-based meat industry.
A vision for the future
Looking ahead, Joycee envisions the abaca patty as a global leader in the plant-based meat revolution. In the next decade, she plans to expand abaca cultivation through partnerships with local farmers, ensuring a sustainable and ethical supply chain. This vision reflects her commitment to creating a positive impact both environmentally and economically.
Photo courtesy of Ms. Usero
Showcasing at the 2024 KIWIE
Joycee's excitement about participating in the 2024 Korea International Women’s Invention Exposition (KIWIE) is palpable. She sees it as a rare opportunity to showcase the abaca patty alongside inspiring female innovators and to connect with potential partners. Joycee aims to gain recognition and validation on the global stage and forge valuable partnerships with international distributors and investors. This exposure is crucial for accelerating the commercialization of the abaca patty and making a significant impact on the global shift toward sustainable protein sources.
Photo courtesy of Ms. Usero
Government agencies like DOST-TAPI play a vital role in empowering inventors like Joycee by funding participation in international invention expositions. These platforms not only showcase innovations on a global stage but also foster international partnerships that can amplify their impact. Joycee believes that Filipino inventions deserve global recognition and that participating in events like KIWIE allows Filipino ingenuity to shine, attracting collaborations that can solve global problems with Filipino-made solutions.
A call to investors and communities
For potential investors and adopters, the abaca patty represents more than just a delicious plant-based option—it is an investment in a sustainable future. Joycee invites investors to join her in revolutionizing the protein industry while empowering local communities. She also calls on Filipino communities worldwide to take pride in this innovation, highlighting that local crops can hold the key to a sustainable future.
The role of women in science
Reflecting on her journey, Joycee acknowledges the challenges women face in the S&T field due to stereotypes. However, she also believes that being a woman brings fresh perspectives that can lead to groundbreaking inventions. Mother's Day, with its recent celebration of nurturing and perseverance, serves as a powerful reminder of the determination required to perfect the abaca patty—a quality essential for any aspiring inventor.
Joycee Usero's journey from the classroom to the kitchen, fueled by a passion for science and community, epitomizes the transformative power of innovation. Her abaca patty is not just a culinary creation; it is a beacon of hope for a sustainable future.
** This article is part of the "Stirring the Future Solutions" campaign for the participants of the 2024 Korea International Women's Invention Exhibition (KIWIE). For more information and event updates, visit the DOST-TAPI website at www.tapi.dost.gov.ph.
