CONSUMER PREFERENCE TO CASSAVA VALUE-ADDED PRODUCTS IN EKITI SOUTH WEST LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, EKITI STATE.

This study investigates Consumer preferences for cassava value-added products, particularly garri, in Ekiti Southwest Local Government Area of Ekiti State, Nigeria. As a key staple crop. cassava plays a critical role in food security and rural livelihoods. However, despite its importance, many cassava farmers and processors receive limited respondents were surveved poor value addition and market access. Using a multi-stage sampling technique, 120 economic benefits due to across selected villages to understand their socio-economic characteristics, forms o of cassava products c o n s u m e d , a n d the determi nants of gar r i preferences . Data was collected through structured questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics Pearson Product Moment Correlation (PPMC). Findings revealed that garri remains the most preferred and widely produced cassava product, with sensory attributes such as taste and texture, along with market related factors like price and availability, significantly influencing consumer choices. Women dominated garri processing, and most respondents rely on traditional processing methods. Key constraints to garri production include inadequate equipment, poor electricity supply, and limited access to credit. The study recommends targeted interventions including capacity building, infrastructure development, and market expansion to enhance cassava value chains and improve livelihoods in the region.