Balot-balot : an exploratory study in vendors' practices, and nutritional composition of repacked vegetable mixes in Santa Cruz and Bay, Laguna

Date

7-2026

Adviser

Jerryco M. Jaurigue

Principal

Buela, Mabel S.

Abstract

This study explores the practice of balot-balot, a common method used by local market vendors in Laguna to repackage mixed vegetables, helping reduce waste and making products easier to sell. This study investigated the methods by which these products are prepared and sold by the vendors and compared the nutritional composition of repacked vegetable mixes between Santa Cruz and Bay, Laguna. Interviews with vendors were conducted to collect data, and nutritional compositions are computed using the Philippine Food Composition Tables of 1997. Results show that vendors use vegetables that are still edible but aesthetically unpleasing for retail. By combining these vegetables into more purchasable products such as pinakbet and chopsuey vegetable mixes, vendors can cut down waste and recover consumable portions of damaged vegetables. Vendors estimates the pricing of balot-balot and adjusts them based on the retail price of vegetables while keeping it affordable for customers. Consumers find these products as convenient and very affordable which increased its purchasability. Vendors from both markets use similar operational practices and pricing strategies of repacked vegetables. Balot-balot products still provide a variety of nutrients from different vegetables. Overall, balot-balot serves as a practical waste-reduction practice for market vendors and a convenient purchasing option for consumers, while highlighting opportunities to improve handling practices and nutritional awareness.

Language

English

Location

UP Rural High School

Document Type

Capstone

This document is currently not available here.

Share

COinS