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Abstract
The global food industry is heavily reliant on effective preservation and packaging techniques to
ensure the quality, safety, and longevity of food products. These methods are essential for
minimizing food wastage, meeting consumer expectations, and enabling the transportation of
perishable goods across vast distances. Food preservation involves a range of strategies to
prevent spoilage caused by microbial growth, enzymatic reactions, and environmental factors.
Packaging complements these efforts by acting as a barrier against external contamination,
regulating environmental exposure, and often enhancing product appeal through design and
branding.
With the rise of convenience foods and changing consumer preferences, the demand for
innovative and sustainable packaging solutions has surged. Technologies like Modified
Atmosphere Packaging (MAP), vacuum sealing, and active and intelligent packaging have
revolutionized the industry, offering advanced solutions for extending shelf life while
maintaining food quality. These innovations are particularly relevant in the context of traditional
foods like kakhra, a Gujarati flatbread known for its crisp texture and delicate flavor.
Kakhra presents unique preservation challenges due to its sensitivity to moisture, air, and
physical damage. Traditional packaging methods often fail to protect its texture and flavor over
extended periods, especially in export markets. Modern packaging technologies have addressed
these issues through techniques such as moisture-resistant barriers, oxygen scavengers, and eco-
friendly materials. These solutions not only preserve the quality of kakhra but also align with the
growing demand for sustainable practices in food packaging.
This report explores the principles of food preservation and packaging, with a focus on
traditional snacks like kakhra. It highlights the challenges faced by producers and the
technological innovations that have redefined the industry. Special emphasis is placed on the
intersection of cultural heritage and modern packaging, showcasing how traditional foods can
thrive in contemporary markets while maintaining their authenticity.
Chapter-1
Introduction
Today, with the global food supply chain becoming increasingly complex, preservation is more
crucial than ever. The challenges of ensuring food safety, reducing waste, and catering to
consumer demand for convenience have driven innovation in preservation techniques. Key
objectives include:
Quality Preservation: Packaging helps maintain the freshness, texture, and flavor of food by
controlling exposure to air, moisture, and light.
Convenience: Easy-to-use designs, resealable options, and single-serve portions enhance
consumer convenience.
Marketing and Branding: Packaging serves as a communication tool, providing essential
information about the product while appealing to consumer aesthetics.
Traditional packaging methods for kakhra, such as simple plastic wraps or paper boxes, have
proven inadequate for long-term preservation, especially for export markets. This has
necessitated the development of specialized packaging solutions tailored to its unique needs.
Advanced materials and technologies, such as desiccants, oxygen scavengers, and airtight seals,
have been critical in addressing these challenges.
Moisture Sensitivity: Exposure to humidity can render kakhra soggy and compromise its
texture.
Flavor Retention: Oils and spices used in its preparation are prone to oxidation, which
can lead to rancidity.
Physical Fragility: The thin structure of kakhra makes it prone to breakage during
handling and transportation.
To address these issues, manufacturers have adopted advanced packaging techniques such as:
This evolution is evident in the success of brands like Induben Khakhrawala, which have
embraced advanced preservation methods to deliver high-quality products to consumers
worldwide. Through the integration of smart packaging technologies, such as freshness
indicators and sustainable materials, the brand has successfully addressed preservation
challenges while maintaining the authenticity of its offerings.
Summary
This chapter introduced the domains of food preservation and packaging, emphasizing their
significance in maintaining food safety, quality, and longevity. It highlighted the challenges
posed by traditional foods like kakhra, which require specialized solutions to preserve their
delicate texture and flavor.
Chapter-2
Kakhra, a traditional Gujarati snack, is a thin, crispy flatbread made with simple ingredients,
often enriched with spices and flavors. Its preparation is a blend of simplicity and technique,
ensuring a product that is both delicious and long-lasting.
Ingredients
The base recipe for kakhra typically includes:
1. Whole Wheat Flour – The primary ingredient, offering a nutty flavor and rich texture.
2. Oil or Ghee – Used for binding the dough and imparting a smooth texture.
3. Salt – To enhance the flavor.
4. Water – To knead the dough to the right consistency.
1. Spices and Herbs – Turmeric, red chili powder, cumin seeds, or ajwain (carom seeds) for
a traditional taste.
2. Seasonings – Garlic, onion powder, or dried fenugreek leaves for enhanced flavors.
3. Additives – Sesame seeds or flaxseeds for added crunch and health benefits.
Fig 2.1.1- Flour Fig 2.1.2 – Oil Fig 2.1.3- Salt Fig 2.1.4- Water
4. Flavoring (Optional):
Brush the kakhra with oil or ghee while it’s still warm.
Sprinkle additional spices or seasonings for flavored variants, such as masala kakhra or
methi kakhra.
Variations of Kakhra
Kakhra comes in a variety of flavors to cater to diverse taste preferences, including:
Plain Kakhra: Traditional and simple, highlighting the natural flavor of wheat.
Masala Kakhra: Enhanced with spices like chili powder, coriander, and cumin.
Methi Kakhra: Infused with dried fenugreek leaves for a slightly bitter, aromatic taste.
Jeera (Cumin) Kakhra: Seasoned with roasted cumin for a warm, earthy flavor.
Multigrain Kakhra: Made using a mix of flours like oats, millet, and wheat for added
nutrition.
Kakhra preparation is an art that balances precision and creativity, with endless scope for
innovation while staying true to its traditional roots. Its long shelf life, especially when paired
with proper packaging techniques, makes it a popular snack both in India and abroad.
The distinct flavor of kakhra is a result of a combination of traditional recipes and innovative
methods. These methods, while rooted in age-old techniques, have been refined and modernized
to enhance the snack’s unique taste and texture.
Summary
Kakhra, a cherished Gujarati snack, owes its enduring appeal to its simple yet versatile
ingredients and a meticulous preparation process. The key ingredients—whole wheat flour, oil or
ghee, and water—form the base, while spices, herbs, and optional additives like sesame seeds or
fenugreek elevate its flavor profile. The preparation process, from kneading the dough to
roasting on a flat griddle, is an art that demands precision. Ensuring even cooking and a crispy
texture, kakhra is finished with optional flavor enhancements such as brushing with ghee or
sprinkling additional spices.
Chapter-3
3.1 Introduction
Kakhra, a humble yet iconic snack from Gujarat, holds profound socio-economic significance,
reflecting its impact on cultural heritage, community livelihood, and broader market dynamics.
2. Economic Opportunities
3. Empowerment of Women
Health-Conscious Consumers: The nutritious profile of kakhra, being low in fat and
high in fiber, appeals to modern consumers prioritizing health and wellness. Its
innovative flavors also cater to dietary preferences such as low-calorie and gluten-free
diets.
Brand Value and Awareness: Brands like Induben Khakhrawala have elevated kakhra
from a local snack to a health-conscious global product, positioning it as a premium
choice for urban and international markets.
1. Employment Creation
Direct Employment: The kakhra industry provides jobs to thousands of workers across
Gujarat, especially in cities like Ahmedabad and rural areas where small-scale and
cottage industries thrive. Roles span dough preparation, rolling, roasting, and packaging.
Indirect Employment: Ancillary sectors such as transportation, logistics, raw material
supply, and machinery maintenance also benefit, creating a broader employment
ecosystem.
Skill-Based Opportunities: Rural artisans and workers gain access to skill-based jobs in
kakhra manufacturing. Many of these individuals rely on traditional knowledge, which
has been passed down through generations.
Alternative Livelihoods: For communities heavily reliant on agriculture, kakhra
production serves as an alternative or supplementary source of income, particularly
during off-seasons.
3. Women’s Empowerment
Demand for Raw Materials: The kakhra industry relies heavily on agricultural produce,
such as wheat, spices, and herbs, sourced locally. This ensures stable demand for farmers,
particularly small-scale growers.
Agro-Economic Impact: By creating value-added products from basic crops, the kakhra
industry enhances profitability for the agricultural sector.
6. Encouraging Entrepreneurship
Small Business Growth: The kakhra industry supports numerous family-run businesses and
small enterprises, fostering entrepreneurship at the grassroots level.
Scaling Opportunities: Many local producers have expanded their businesses to cater to national
and international markets, creating ripple effects in job creation and economic growth.
Global Recognition: Gujarat’s kakhra, especially from renowned brands like Induben
Khakhrawala, has gained international fame, increasing export revenues.
Economic Benefits: The international demand for kakhra brings foreign exchange into Gujarat,
benefiting local producers and enhancing infrastructure development.
The kakhra industry in Gujarat exemplifies the flourishing growth of small-scale industries
(SSIs), driven by the demand for traditional snacks both domestically and internationally. This
growth has been fueled by factors such as government support, innovation, and the
entrepreneurial spirit of small-scale producers. Here's a detailed look at how this sector
contributes to the rise of SSIs:
2. Economic Contribution
The kakhra sector plays a significant role in generating employment, especially in rural and
semi-urban areas of Gujarat. Small-scale kakhra units often provide jobs to unskilled and semi-
skilled workers, thereby contributing to local economic development. Additionally, the growth of
SSIs has a multiplier effect on ancillary industries. The increased demand for raw materials such
as flour, spices, and packaging supplies boosts businesses involved in flour milling, spice
grinding, and packaging materials. This interdependence among small businesses creates a robust
local economy, fostering growth across various sectors.
3. Government Support
The Government of Gujarat and the Indian government have recognized the importance of small-
scale industries in the kakhra sector and have provided support through various schemes.
Financial assistance programs like MUDRA loans, along with subsidies for food processing
units, have made it easier for entrepreneurs to access capital. Additionally, skill development
initiatives by organizations such as the Ministry of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises
(MSME) offer training in modern food processing and packaging techniques, ensuring that
small-scale kakhra producers stay competitive in the market.
diasporas, such as the USA, UAE, and the UK. By emphasizing traditional recipes and
handmade products, small-scale producers can carve out a unique space in the competitive global
snack market.
Summary
The socio-economic significance of kakhra extends beyond its role as a snack. It contributes to
cultural preservation, economic empowerment, health and wellness, and global culinary
recognition. Its impact on rural livelihoods, gender equality, and sustainable practices
underscores its role as not just a food product but as a catalyst for economic and social progress.
Chapter-4
Market Expansion and Commercial Strategy of the Kakhra
Industry
The commercialization of kakhra, a traditional Gujarati snack, has experienced considerable
growth, especially with the increased popularity of regional foods on a global scale. In this
context, Induben Khakhrawala stands as a key example of how small-scale industries can scale
production while retaining authenticity, innovation, and quality. This section explores the
commercialization strategies in the kakhra industry, with a specific focus on how Induben
Khakhrawala has capitalized on these factors to expand both domestically and internationally.
1. Scaling Up Production
Initially, kakhra production was mainly confined to small, home-based units. However, as
demand for the snack grew, producers like Induben Khakhrawala adopted modern
manufacturing processes. The company integrated automated machinery, such as
automated rolling and roasting machines, which allowed them to scale production while
maintaining the traditional qualities that define the kakhra’s flavor and texture. This
scaling up has enabled Induben Khakhrawala to meet both local and global demand,
reaching markets in countries like the USA and UAE.
2. Branding and Packaging Innovation
Induben Khakhrawala has successfully utilized branding and packaging to stand out in
the competitive snack market. The company’s distinctive logo and branding strategies
emphasize the traditional yet innovative nature of their products, appealing to both the
1. Domestic Market
The domestic market for kakhra has been steadily expanding, especially as the middle
class in India grows and the demand for ready-to-eat, nutritious snacks increases. The
convenience of packaged kakhra, combined with its long shelf life, makes it a popular
snack choice for busy consumers. In India, Induben Khakhrawala’s products are widely
available in supermarkets, retail chains, and through online platforms, contributing to the
brand’s growth.
2. International Market
One of the key areas of growth for Induben Khakhrawala has been its expansion into
international markets. With a strong presence in countries like the USA, UAE, Canada,
and the UK, the company has tapped into the large Indian diaspora seeking authentic
Indian snacks. The growing interest in healthy and ethnic foods has also opened up
opportunities for the kakhra industry to reach broader, non-Indian consumers who are
seeking unique and crunchy snacks with minimal preservatives. To cater to international
preferences, Induben Khakhrawala has focused on maintaining the traditional taste while
introducing convenient packaging solutions.
3. Competition and Market Differentiation
While kakhra is gaining popularity, it also faces competition from larger snack brands
that produce similar products. To differentiate itself, Induben Khakhrawala has
emphasized its commitment to quality, traditional recipes, and innovative packaging
solutions. By positioning itself as a premium product with authentic flavors, the company
has created a niche market. The company’s focus on customizations, such as flavored
variants, also helps it stand out in a crowded market.
4. Consumer Trends
The growing consumer preference for healthy and traditional snacks, combined with an
Pricing and customer reach are crucial to the commercial success of any product, and in the case
of Induben Khakhrawala, these factors have been essential to expanding their market presence
both locally and internationally.
Induben Khakhrawala has strategically adopted a competitive pricing model to ensure its
products remain accessible to a wide range of consumers while still reflecting the premium
quality of ingredients used in production. The pricing structure is designed to offer excellent
value for money, with slight variations based on the type of kakhra, such as the traditional plain
variety versus premium versions like multigrain or masala kakhra. This pricing approach ensures
that the products cater to different consumer needs, with affordable options for the domestic
market and premium offerings targeting the export market. The company has also been able to
keep its prices aligned with market trends, balancing affordability and quality.
The target market for Induben Khakhrawala is diverse. Domestically, the brand appeals to
middle-class families who appreciate traditional snacks, health-conscious individuals looking for
high-fiber and low-fat options, and younger customers drawn to innovative flavors and varieties.
Internationally, the brand focuses on the Indian diaspora and global consumers who are curious
about authentic, traditional Indian snacks. Countries like the USA, UAE, and Canada, where
there is a significant population of Indian-origin people, have been key markets for Induben
Khakhrawala. By offering different packaging sizes and price points, the company has been able
to cater to both budget-conscious consumers and those willing to pay a premium for unique,
high-quality flavors.
In terms of market penetration, Induben Khakhrawala has successfully established its products in
various domestic and international distribution channels. Within India, the company has
partnered with local retailers, supermarkets, and grocery stores to make its products widely
accessible to consumers. The brand has also expanded its reach through e-commerce platforms,
enabling it to connect with customers from around the world. These online channels have
allowed Induben Khakhrawala to access global markets and cater to international customers,
especially those in regions with a significant Indian community. Furthermore, by focusing on
strategic partnerships with international retail chains, the brand has made substantial inroads into
markets beyond India, ensuring its products reach a broader audience.
Customer engagement is another area where Induben Khakhrawala excels. The company
interacts with its customers through various platforms, including social media, online
promotions, and personalized services. The brand's focus on building customer loyalty is evident
in its consistent interaction with consumers, taking feedback to refine product offerings and
pricing strategies. Additionally, the brand's packaging plays a significant role in engaging
customers, often invoking a sense of nostalgia while highlighting the high quality and
authenticity of the product. By maintaining strong customer relationships and adapting to their
preferences, Induben Khakhrawala ensures high levels of customer satisfaction, encouraging
repeat business and fostering brand loyalty.
In summary, through strategic pricing, targeting a broad range of consumer segments, and
employing effective distribution channels, Induben Khakhrawala has successfully expanded its
customer reach. These efforts have allowed the brand to maintain a strong presence in both
domestic and international markets, contributing to its ongoing success in the competitive kakhra
industry.
Chapter-5
Kakhra—a traditional thin and crispy flatbread or snack from Gujarat—is not only a convenient
food item but also a nutritionally beneficial addition to meals. Kakhra is typically made from
whole wheat flour and can include a variety of additional ingredients such as spices, sesame
seeds, methi (fenugreek leaves), and jaggery, depending on regional and individual variations.
Kakhra is a sustainable and plant-based food product that often uses locally sourced ingredients.
Its shelf-stable nature makes it eco-friendly and reduces food waste. The absence of
preservatives or artificial additives in homemade or traditionally prepared Kakhra ensures a
clean-label product, appealing to health-conscious consumers.
Summary
Kakhra is more than just a snack; it is a nutritionally balanced food that supports digestive
health, energy levels, and overall well-being. Its ingredients mirror the wholesome ethos of
Umadi chutney, providing both taste and health benefits. Whether consumed as a standalone
snack or paired with chutneys like Umadi, Kakhra stands out as a culturally rich and health-
promoting option in Indian cuisine.
Chapter 6:
Kakhra, a traditional crispy flatbread, has the potential to be a successful commercial product,
especially with increasing consumer interest in regional and healthy snacks. However, its journey
toward commercial scalability comes with challenges, including maintaining authenticity,
ensuring quality, and meeting market demands. This chapter explores these challenges and
highlights the opportunities for Kakhra in both domestic and international markets.
As Kakhra transitions from a handcrafted, locally consumed snack to a widely available product,
several challenges emerge:
losing its cultural identity. Ensuring that Kakhra remains tied to its roots while
appealing to a broader audience requires careful branding and marketing
strategies.
Packaging and Shelf Life:
o Ensuring the crispiness of Kakhra during long storage periods and transportation
is a challenge. Proper packaging innovations are necessary to maintain freshness,
especially for international markets where transit times can be longer.
Despite the challenges, Kakhra holds significant potential for growth. Key opportunities include:
Risk:
With increasing health consciousness, consumers are seeking low-calorie, preservative-
free snacks. Kakhra, being plant-based and baked rather than fried, fits well into this
trend.
Export:
Kakhra can cater to the Indian diaspora in countries like the United States, the United
Kingdom, Canada, and Australia, where there is a growing appreciation for Indian
snacks. Additionally, its low-fat, high-fiber composition makes it appealing to health-
conscious consumers in global markets.
E-Commerce:
Platforms like Amazon, Flipkart, and health food-specific websites provide access to a
global customer base. Selling Kakhra online allows smaller brands to bypass traditional
retail challenges and reach customers directly.
SocialMedia:
Digital campaigns focusing on Kakhra’s health benefits, cultural significance, and
versatile uses (as a snack, with chutneys, or with dips) can enhance its visibility.
Collaborations with influencers and recipe creators can introduce Kakhra to younger
audiences.
c. Product Diversification
Flavors:
Introducing diverse flavors like masala, methi, garlic, or even fusion flavors (e.g., peri-
peri or cheese) can cater to varying consumer tastes.
PortionSizes:
Offering Kakhra in smaller, single-serving packs appeals to on-the-go consumers and
encourages trial purchases. Family packs can target bulk buyers.
Foodservice:
Collaborating with cafes, restaurants, and airlines to include Kakhra in their menu
offerings or as an accompaniment can boost brand visibility.
Retailships:
Placement in premium grocery stores and health food chains can position Kakhra as a
premium, healthy snack.
Eco-Friendly:
Highlighting sustainability through biodegradable or recyclable packaging aligns with
global trends in environmental consciousness.
Farmers:
Partnering with local wheat and spice producers not only ensures ingredient quality but
also promotes fair trade and community development.
Summary
Scaling Kakhra for commercial success requires careful navigation of challenges like
maintaining quality and cultural identity during mass production. However, its health benefits,
versatility, and association with regional cuisine present immense opportunities for growth. By
targeting health-conscious consumers, leveraging e-commerce platforms, diversifying product
offerings, and forming strategic partnerships, Kakhra can establish itself as a popular, globally
recognized snack.
Chapter 7
of Kakhra
Sustainability and cultural preservation are integral to the continued success and growth of
traditional food products like Kakhra. This chapter examines how the production of Kakhra—a
delicacy deeply rooted in the culinary heritage of North Karnataka—can adapt to meet modern
sustainability and market demands while maintaining its cultural authenticity.
Kakhra, traditionally prepared using locally sourced ingredients such as jowar (sorghum),
sesame seeds, and jaggery, holds a distinct place in Karnataka’s cuisine. These ingredients are
combined using techniques honed over generations, often involving slow cooking and manual
blending to achieve the unique texture and flavor that defines the dish.
Preserving these practices is essential for maintaining the authenticity of Kakhra. However,
challenges arise when scaling production to meet rising demand. Modern technology, such as
semi-automated mixing and energy-efficient cooking methods, can provide an opportunity to
strike a balance between maintaining traditional techniques and ensuring efficiency in larger-
scale production.
The production of Kakhra depends heavily on the availability of high-quality, locally grown
ingredients such as jowar, sesame, and jaggery. Sourcing these ingredients directly from farmers
not only ensures the use of authentic materials but also supports the regional economy.
Producers can work with farmers to adopt sustainable agricultural methods, such as organic
farming, crop rotation, and water conservation techniques. Encouraging the use of native crop
varieties also helps preserve biodiversity while reducing reliance on chemical fertilizers and
pesticides.
Through fair trade agreements and partnerships, farmers can benefit from a stable income,
fostering stronger rural economies. These collaborations can also empower small-scale producers
and create a supply chain rooted in ethical and sustainable practices.
Packaging Innovations:
Waste Reduction:
Repurposing byproducts from Kakhra production, such as leftover jowar husks or sesame
residue, into animal feed or organic compost can further minimize waste and promote a circular
economy.
Fair-trade certification ensures ethical treatment and equitable profit-sharing among farmers and
workers involved in Kakhra production. By adopting fair-trade practices, producers can enhance
the social and economic well-being of local communities while ensuring ethical transparency in
their supply chains.
Adopting fair-trade practices provides economic stability and fosters trust between producers and
consumers. This approach aligns with global trends, where consumers increasingly favor
ethically produced food products.
Integrating traditional preparation methods with sustainable technology is essential for Kakhra's
growth. By utilizing renewable energy sources, such as solar-powered equipment for roasting
and grinding, producers can reduce their carbon footprint while preserving the artisanal quality
of Kakhra.
Investing in research to optimize production techniques can enhance efficiency while retaining
the traditional essence of Kakhra. For instance, exploring solar drying or low-energy cooking
methods can contribute to sustainability without altering the taste or texture.
Educational Programs:
Workshops and awareness campaigns can educate younger generations about the history,
preparation, and cultural value of Kakhra, ensuring its legacy endures. Partnering with schools
and non-profits can further promote sustainable practices in agriculture and food production.
Reducing the carbon footprint of Kakhra’s distribution is crucial for sustainability. By localizing
supply chains and partnering with regional distributors, producers can minimize transportation-
related emissions.
Direct-to-Consumer Sales:
Online sales and local market distribution allow Kakhra producers to connect directly with
consumers, bypassing intermediaries and reducing logistics costs. This approach also provides
greater control over product quality and authenticity.
Producers can collaborate with certification bodies to validate their sustainable practices, such as
organic or fair-trade labels, enhancing consumer trust and marketability.
Circular Economy:
Innovative solutions, such as repurposing waste materials into new products, can reduce
environmental impact and create additional revenue streams. For instance, sesame seed shells or
jowar residues could be used in biofuel or compost production.
SUMMARY
The future of Kakhra lies in the balance between honoring its cultural roots and embracing
modern sustainability practices. By supporting local farmers, adopting eco-friendly packaging,
and promoting fair trade, Kakhra can achieve both economic growth and environmental
responsibility.
Through education, innovation, and community engagement, Kakhra producers can ensure the
preservation of this cherished North Karnataka delicacy while adapting to the evolving demands
of global markets. Sustainable practices, combined with a strong commitment to cultural
preservation, can position Kakhra as a symbol of tradition and innovation in the global culinary
landscape.
Chapter 8
Conclusion
The journey of Kakhra production embodies a powerful story of how traditional foods can thrive
in modern markets while staying true to their cultural roots. This narrative highlights the
importance of preserving heritage in a rapidly changing food industry. Kakhra, a delicacy deeply
rooted in North Karnataka's culinary traditions, represents more than just a food product—it is a
cultural emblem. Its traditional preparation methods, passed down through generations, preserve
its authenticity and distinctive appeal.
The future of Kakhra lies in the delicate balance between honoring traditional practices and
embracing modern sustainability and market demands. Producers must invest in innovative
techniques to expand production without sacrificing the product’s artisanal quality. Research and
development into new variations and flavors can cater to diverse consumer preferences,
broadening Kakhra's appeal while retaining its core identity.
In an era where consumers prioritize environmentally and socially responsible choices, Kakhra
stands out as a product that embodies sustainability and cultural preservation. From ethical
sourcing of ingredients to eco-friendly packaging and waste management, the production of
Kakhra aligns with global efforts toward sustainability. These practices not only enhance the
product’s appeal to environmentally conscious consumers but also contribute to the economic
empowerment of local farmers and producers.
References
1. R. Desai and A. Patil, “Traditional Food Products and Their Role in Cultural Identity: A Study
of North Karnataka,” Indian Journal of Cultural Studies, vol. 12, no. 3, pp. 45-56, 2020.
3. N. Bhat and K. Iyer, “The Role of Packaging Innovations in Promoting Regional Food
Products,” Food Marketing and Innovation Review, vol. 10, no. 2, pp. 15-28, 2021.