Production Mapping and Description of the Organoleptic Qualities of Local Varieties of Plantain (Musa spp. AAB) Cultivated in Côte d’Ivoire

Aims: A field survey was carried to apprehend the full diversity of Ivorian’s plantain. The aim was to produce a reliable and up-to-date production map of the local varieties. This study was also intended to determine their level of appreciation by local consumers on the basis of their physical, technological and sensory characteristics. Place and Duration of Study: The enquiries data were collected in 87 villages distributed into 22 regions of Côte d'Ivoire, between September and December 2017. Methodology: During the survey, data on the production, description, processing and consumption of local plantains were collected by direct individual interviews using a structured questionnaire. This information was collected in a participatory manner from 1232 (14 producers/villages). Results: This study identified twenty-two (22) varieties of plantain, traditionally cultivated for several generations in Côte d'Ivoire. The greatest varietal diversity has been observed in the South-East and the East, notably in the regions of Sud-Comoé, Indénié-Djuablin, Mé and Original Research Article Kouassi et al.; JAERI, 21(2): 9-21, 2020; Article no.JAERI.54908 10 Agneby-Tiassa. These varieties are variously appreciated according to their physical and organoleptic characteristics. People used them to make the usual plantain-based dishes found in Côte d’Ivoire. However, for the most questioned people, cooking specific plantain dishes requires the using of specific varieties with particular characteristics. The Agnrin, Molegna, N'gretia, Molekotoba, Ameletia, Purple banana and Banadiè varieties have been designated to be the best for “foutou”. In addition, the Banadiè variety, even in the green state, gives a nice yellow “foutou”. The above varieties are said to be perfect to prepare “Aloco”, “Docklounou” and “Clacro” at advanced ripening stages. The Afoto, Spotted banana, Kpatrè-kou, Kpatragnon, Kpatrè-n'san varieties, were recommended for “foutou”, “foufou”, roasted or chips because of their volume. Conclusion: Further researches are underway to explain, scientifically, the sensory and technological differences usually observed between local plantains varieties.