SQUASH CRACKERS Group 8
SQUASH CRACKERS Group 8
Introduction
prioritize nutritional value in order to provide their body with enough nutrition for cell
and tissue growth, maintenance, and repair. The snacks became popular among people,
especially among food lovers who enjoy consuming crispy refractive foods. Chips are
one of the most enjoyable foods while watching TV, doing homework, and playing
mobile games, etc. There are many different types of chips to satisfy different tastes.
Furthermore, compared to alternatives that are deep-fried or loaded with sugar, crackers
are seen as a healthier snack option than baked goods. Low-fat, low-salt, and gluten-free
crackers have been developed because of growing consumer focus on nutritious and
Squash is one of the most widely grown vegetables in the Philippines, which
makes it one of the fastest-growing plants and one of the least expensive. Squash has a lot
of culinary uses, and it is very adaptable. It can be added to a soup, used for salads, baked
whole or sliced, and added to other processed dishes like ice cream cones. As stated in
the study of Brennan, Nor et al. (2013), adding pumpkin products as ingredients to
extruded snacks imparts natural sweetness and palatable tastes. Additionally, it has very
squash is more nutritious than wheat flour and is widely available, inexpensive, and
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Squash contains a wealth of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that have several
health advantages. The antioxidants in squash can be very helpful in lowering oxidative
stress. In turn, this might aid in lowering the risk of cancer. Squash contains vitamins C
and Beta-carotene, which may decrease the progression of macular degeneration and
lessen the likelihood of vision loss associated with it. Vitamin C-rich foods can also aid
in cataract prevention. Beta-carotene can aid in preventing UV damage to the skin, while
not being as effective as topical sunscreen. Reduced UV radiation exposure can enhance
The term “pasalubong” describes goods and foods that are frequently purchased
by tourists to be given to locals when they return to their hometown. Most open, these are
chocolates, delicacies (Ghaz, 2021). You can consume our product wherever you choose
high-quality, reasonably priced, and worthwhile for purchase. The use of squash, which is
easily accessible and outside the backyard to most Filipino family homes, could improve
The main goal of the researchers is to build and enrich a product using readily
available and nutritious ingredients. This study is brought to light in large part because of
the nutritional value, affordability, availability, and benefits of squash, which is widely
involves maximizing the number of crackers that can fit within a defined space or under
specific constraints, such as size and weight. This problem typically requires careful
consideration of the dimensions and properties of the crackers, as well as the limitations
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of the packaging or storage area. The scope of this problem extends to various
efficient use of space is critical. It draws upon techniques from operations research and
computer science, making it relevant for teaching optimization methods and problem-
solving strategies. Ultimately, the insights gained from addressing this problem can have
practical implications in industries like warehousing and urban planning, where space
optimization is essential.
According to Organic Facts, the top benefits of squash include its ability to boost
the immune system, manage diabetes, reduce inflammation, and prevent infections. It
also helps improve lung health, prevent neural tube defects, protect heart health, relieve
asthma symptoms, regulate blood circulation, improve vision, and strengthen bones,
among other benefits. Furthermore, according to the research study by the World Cancer
Research Fund/American Institute for Cancer Research (2007), titled Food, Nutrition,
Physical Activity, and the Prevention of Cancer, as well as studies by Murray (2005) and
The main purpose of this study was to develop a better understanding of the main
problems associated with squash crackers, particularly focusing on their texture, moisture
content, and flavour balance. Specifically, this research aimed to address issues such as
excessive dryness, which can lead to a hard texture, and excessive moisture that may
result in sogginess. Furthermore, the study sought to evaluate the seasoning levels, as
packaging solutions to enhance shelf life and maintain freshness, ultimately improving
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Statement of the Problem
This study is all about the crackers that are good for the health of the people. This sought
This study was conducted to gather information about the level of demand for
crackers” among senior high school students in the Gateways Institute of Science and
Technology. The result of this study will be of significant value in the following.
1. Students- The result of this study will provide students with insights into food
food formulation, paving the way for further studies in nutrition, sensory analysis,
crackers, providing customers with tastier and healthier snack options that meet
their preferences.
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4. Children- The study will benefit children by promoting the availability of
6. DTI- The squash crackers industry can contribute to the country’s economic
measure its acceptability according to its quality in terms of taste, texture, aroma, and
appearance. Qualitative methods were used in this research since they measure the
characteristics.
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CONCEPTUAL PARADIGM/FRAMEWORK
Ideas on making
and blending Preparation of
from the related squash cracker The completed
studies. Squash Crackers
Preparation of
Ingredients and
ingredients
materials
Other ingredients
(flour, seasonings,
and binders)
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The Conceptual Framework of the study
This framework illustrates the study`s structure, starting with inputs that include
preparation, mixing, baking, and quality evaluation. The output consists of the final
squash crackers, assessed for nutritional value, sensory attribute, and consumer
acceptance. This model aims to highlight how these elements interact to promote
2. Crackers: A baked snack food that is typically crisp and dry, made from a mixture of
flour, water, and other ingredients, in this case, incorporating squash to enhance
nutritional value.
crackers, including ratios of squash, flour types, seasonings, and any binding agents.
content of the squash crackers, including calories, protein, fat, carbohydrates, fiber,
5. Sensory Evaluation: A systematic method of assessing the taste, texture, aroma, and
overall acceptability of the squash crackers through consumer taste tests or expert
panels.
6. Shelf Life: The length of time that the squash crackers maintain their quality, under
specified conditions.
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CHAPTER II
prioritize healthy food options and are interested in innovative products such as crispy
breadsticks with cheese flavor. The study also highlighted the importance of modern
extraction methods, health benefits, and food applications of pumpkins and their by-
products. Their findings suggest that pumpkins are a rich source of phytochemicals and
offer various health benefits, making them a promising ingredient for the development of
to Las Pinas Jr. and de Jesus (2022), cookies made from these ingredients can provide
Mejía et al. (2022) studied the convective drying kinetics of squash epicarp
(Cucurbita maxima) and its use in developing gluten-free bread, finding 65°C to be the
optimal drying temperature. The squash epicarp flour was used to produce bread with
high sensory acceptance and purchase intention, demonstrating its potential as a valuable
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Squash (Cucurbita maxima), or "kalabasa," is a nutrient-rich agricultural product
in the Philippines, rich in vitamins A and C (Moreno, 2015). It is used in various ways,
including main dishes and sweet treats such as pastillas and baked goods. Research by
Villar (2025) explored squash pickles, finding acceptable quality attributes and potential
for pickled vegetable products. All parts of the squash are edible, including flesh, seeds,
snacks like cupcakes can increase its appeal. According to Valencerina (2019),
combining boiled mashed squash with standard recipes can produce a variety of food
products. Adding flavor to cupcakes can enhance their taste (Sanchez, 2021). High-
quality food products can satisfy consumers and improve product reliability. Research by
Mercadal et al. (2022) found that squash cupcakes were sensory acceptable, indicating
potential for squash-based products. Similarly, squash crackers could leverage the
nutritional benefits of squash and the appeal of crunchy snacks to create a unique
product.
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CHAPTER III
This chapter reveals the project for squash crackers focused on creating a
various cooking methods for optimal flavor and texture, and consumer appeal.
METHODOLOGY:
experiments, sensory evaluations, and questionnaire surveys to develop and evaluate the
To prepare squash crackers, start by washing and peeling the squash thoroughly.
Boil the squash until tender, then mix in chicken powder, garlic powder, salt, and
cornstarch to create a flavour dough. Chill the mixture overnight for optimal texture.
Slice the chilled dough into thin crackers. Next, refrigerate the dough overnight to
enhance texture and flavour. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight
container. This allows the flavors to meld together. Alternatively, boiling the dough
before baking creates a chewy texture. Briefly submerge the rolled-out dough in boiling
water, then dry before baking. This enhances flavor and gives a distinct finish. After
shaping, sun-dry the crackers for 2-3 days, depending on weather and humidity, until
crispy. For crispy crackers, fry the dried dough in batches at 350°F (175°C) for 2-4
minutes. Drain excess oil on paper towels. Finally, store squash crackers in airtight
containers or resealable bags in a cool, dry place. Consider adding desiccant packs to
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Project Design
This consists of a brief description of the ingredients, the tools and equipment
needed, the construction procedure, the construction frame, and the cost of the project.
5 cup Water
3 cup Oil
¼ tbsp. Salt
2 cup Cornstarch
Table 1. Show the quantity, unit, and description of the ingredients used in making
squash crackers.
Tools Function
dicing food
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Knife For cutting, slicing, and chopping food
vegetables
liquids
Equipment Used
Equipment Functions
CONSTRUCTION PROCEDURE
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The following are steps in making Squash Crackers:
Combine the squash puree with cornstarch, salt, garlic powder, and chicken
Shape each portion into a long roll, about 1 inch in diameter (or as desired), and
set aside.
Cooked the rolls until they were slightly firm to the touch.
After refrigerating the rolled dough, cut it into small pieces, place them on a
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Figure 2. Preparing all the ingredients used in making squash crackers
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Figure 3. Rinse the squash thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt, bacteria,
or other contaminants.
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Figure 4. Cutting the squash in half first makes it more stable and easier to peel, reducing
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Figure 6. Slice the squash into 1-2-inch pieces
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Figure 8. Strain the boiled squash to remove excess water
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Figure 10. Add all the seasonings to the mashed squash and mix well
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Figure 12. Boil the shaped roll until it’s cooked
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Figure 15. Sun-dry the sliced chilled roll
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Figure 16. Fry the dried squash slices
CAPABILITIES
complementing various dishes while offering numerous health benefits. Rich in vitamins,
antioxidants and fiber, they're gluten-free, low-calorie and support digestive health and
immunity. Their crispy, chewy or crunchy texture adds delight to salads, soups or
enjoyed on their own. Perfect for dipping in your favorite spreads or cheeses, squash
LIMITATION
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Squash crackers have several limitations. Nutritionally, they are low in protein as
well as omega-3 fatty acids and may contain high levels of sodium depending on the
intensive, and storage requirements are specific. Allergens are also a concern, with
have a limited shelf life (2-3 months) if not stored properly. Availability and affordability
vary by region, and they may not suit all dietary preferences (e.g., vegan, keto).
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PROCESS
measures.
OPERATION PROCEDURES
Quality Assurance
1. Inspect packaging;
4. Maintain documentation.
Safety Protocols
Equipment Needed
1. Packaging machinery;
2. Cooling racks;
3. Sorting tables;
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4. Quality control equipment;
6. Storage containers
MAINTENANCE
1. Daily tasks like sanitizing equipment and workspace, inspecting machinery, and
2. Weekly tasks include deep cleaning, equipment lubrication, and quality control
checks.
training.
assurance audits.
5. The semi-annual task involves equipment upgrades and facility cleaning, while
1. Wear personal protective equipment (PPE) like gloves, hairnets, and masks.
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2. Ensure machine safety with guarding, regular maintenance, and operator training.
Implement proper hand washing, employee health checks, and hygiene training.
documentation.
3. Prepare for emergencies with fire evacuation plans, first aid kits, and product
We made squash crackers, but they weren’t perfect. The ingredients we used
didn`t have everything needed to add more ingredients to make them better. Our initial
experiment showed promise, but the crackers lacked flavor and texture.
Next time, we will try again with a complete recipe to achieve the desired taste,
texture, and quality. We`ll add essential ingredients like spices, herbs, and healthy oils.
This will enhance the crackers` nutritional value and sensory appeal.
Our goal is to create delicious, nutritious, and crispy squash crackers. With
refined formulation and precise cooking techniques, we aim to perfect our recipe. Future
experiments will focus on optimizing ingredient ratios, cooking time, and temperature.
By iterating and refining our process, we`ll develop exceptional squash crackers.
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CONSTRUCTIONAL TIMEFRAME
Frying 30 seconds
BILLS OF INGREDIENTS
Cost
1 Kilogram Squash 70 70
1 Pack Salt 20 20
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Table 5. Bill of Ingredients
SOURCE OF COST
Sources Cost
Ingredients 336
Printing 450
Fare 500
Packaging 200
STRUCTURE
seasoning, binders, and oils. The structure includes a cracker base made from squash
puree, flour, and binders, topped with a seasoning layer adding flavour and a crispy crust.
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Internally, they comprise a starch matrix providing structure, controlled moisture content
for crispiness, and air pockets for crunch. Optional components include toppings like
INTERRELATIONSHIP OF INGREDIENTS
RELATED INPUT
Squash crackers involve various inputs, including ingredients like squash puree, flour,
seasoning, binders, and oils. Production requires processes like cooking and pureeing
squash, mixing, rolling, cutting, baking of frying, seasoning, and packaging. Different
variations exist, such as sweet, spicy, herb-infused, gluten-free, and vegan options.
Equipment like mixers, rollers, cutters, and baking sheets is necessary. Safety
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CHAPTER IV
Summary of Findings
crookneck or zucchini. The squash is washed, peeled, and sliced uniformly to ensure even
frying. Optional soaking, blanching, and draining excess moisture steps optimize texture.
The prepared squash slices are deep-fried at 350°F (175°C) for 2-3 minutes in neutral-
tasting oils like peanut or avocado oil. This process achieves a crispy exterior and tender
After frying, the squash crackers are seasoned with salt, herbs, or spices to enhance
flavor. This step allows flexibility in flavor profiles, catering to various consumer
The cooled squash crackers are packaged in airtight containers or re-sealable bags,
additional protection.
Proper storage requires a cool (60-70°F), dry (50-60% humidity) environment with low
lighting, extending shelf life to 4-6 months. Effective inventory management, attractive
branding, and food safety certifications ensure quality and consumer satisfaction.
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Conclusion
In conclusion, the production of squash crackers involves meticulous steps from squash
selection, preparation, frying, seasoning, packaging, and storage. This process requires
attention to detail to ensure quality and safety. With proper execution, squash crackers
offer a unique flavor profile, crispy texture, and a nutritious snack option.
Key benefits of squash crackers include their versatility in seasoning options, extended
shelf life (4-6 months), and potential for scaling production. These advantages position
To further develop squash crackers, manufacturers can experiment with diverse squash
reach through strategic distribution channels and online platforms can also boost sales.
Overall, squash crackers offer immense potential as a healthy, tasty snack. By refining
offerings, manufacturers can capitalize on the growing demand for nutritious snacks and
Recommendations
and culinary flexibility. These crackers boast an impressive array of vitamins, minerals,
and antioxidants. Squash crackers offer numerous health advantages, including enhanced
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snacking option. Squash crackers support overall well-being by promoting healthy
digestion, immune function, and energy production. They’re also gluten-free, easily
digestible, and customized with herbs, making them suitable for diverse dietary needs.
Executive Summary
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Statement of Summary of Conclusion Recommendations
Gavril, R. N., Stoica, F., Lipșa, F. D., Constantin, O. E., Stănciuc, N., Aprodu, I., &
phytochemicals, extraction, health benefits, and food applications. Foods, 13(17), 2694.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11395535/
Las Pinas Jr, R. B., & de Jesus, G. F. (n.d.). Development and product acceptability of
cookies from sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas), squash (Cucurbita maxima) and carrots
(Daucus carota).
https://www.academia.edu/download/100086804/IJISRT22NOV1032_1.pdf
López Mejía, N., Morales Posada, N. B., & Lobatón García, H. F. (2022). Convective
drying kinetics of squash epicarp of Cucurbita maxima and its uses in developing gluten-
direct=true&profile=ehost&scope=site&authtype=crawler&jrnl=22561498&AN=158311
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Mercadal, E. C., Onde, G. A., Rustata, E. F. T., & Pelayo, R. M. (2022). Sensory
https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Rodulfo-Aunzo/publication/367344399_Sensory_A
cceptability_of_Squash_Cucurbita_maxima_Cupcake_in_The_Municipality_of_Isabel_L
eyte/links/6409834d574950594578c38c/Sensory-Acceptability-of-Squash-Cucurbita-
maxima-Cupcake-in-The-Municipality-of-Isabel-Leyte.pdf
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Sukhawatthanakun, K., Kultangwattana, W., Cherngsaard, J., Chaithong, K.,
Chorpraphan, S., Chaichanasaeng, S., & Sunarak, W. (2022). Marketing plan of new
https://so03.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/iba/article/view/261990
https://eprint.ijisrt.org/id/eprint/240/1/IJISRT25MAR1238.pdf
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APPENDIX B
Certification from the English Editor
Republic of the Philippines
JOSE RIZAL MEMORIAL STATE UNIVERSITY
The Premier University in Zamboanga Del Norte
Dipolog Campus, Dipolog City
GOALS
G - lobally competitive educational JENNY P. ARABIS, MAEd. Eng.
institution; English Editor
R - esilient to internal and external risks
and hazards;
I - nnovative processes and solutions in
research translated to extension
engagement;
P - artnerships and collborations with
private enterprises, and alumni;
S - ound Fiscal Management and
Participatory Governance.
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CURRICULUM VITAE
Age: 20
Gender: Female
EDUCATIONAL ATTAINMENT
Course: Associate in Industrial Technology Major in Food and Beverage Preparation and
Services Management
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CURRICULUM VITAE
Age: 26
Gender: Female
EDUCATIONAL ATTAINMENT
Course: Associate in Industrial Technology Major in Food and Beverage Preparation and
Services Management
39
CURRICULUM VITAE
Age: 37
Gender: Female
EDUCATIONAL ATTAINMENT
Course: Associate in Industrial Technology Major in Food and Beverage Preparation and
Services Management
40
CURRICULUM VITAE
Age: 22
Gender: Male
EDUCATIONAL ATTAINMENT
Course: Associate in Industrial Technology Major in Food and Beverage Preparation and
Services Management
41
CURRICULUM VITAE
Age: 22
Gender: Female
EDUCATIONAL ATTAINMENT
Course: Associate in Industrial Technology Major in Food and Beverage Preparation and
Services Management
42
CURRICULUM VITAE
Age: 21
Gender: Female
EDUCATIONAL ATTAINMENT
Course: Associate in Industrial Technology Major in Food and Beverage Preparation and
Services Management
43
CURRICULUM VITAE
Age: 21
Gender: Female
EDUCATIONAL ATTAINMENT
Course: Associate in Industrial Technology Major in Food and Beverage Preparation and
Services Management
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