Coproexnic

Coproexnic, sesame seeds, Nicaragua (producer)

Domesticated over 3,000 years ago, the sesame seed is one of the oldest oilseed crops, with one of the highest oil contents of any seed. With a rich, nutty flavour, it is a common healthy ingredient in cuisines across the world.

This nutritious grain grows well in Nicaragua; in fact, Nicaragua’s sesame is one of the best in the world. The seeds are tolerant to drought-like conditions, which are prevalent in the region, making it an ideal location for sesame producers.

Established in 1994, Coproexnic is the largest exporter of organic processed sesame seeds in Nicaragua. They are a strong co-operative serving 2,000 farmers in 12 different communities; 56% of these farmers are women.

General Manager, Su-lin Meyrat, said:

“We would like to thank the investors on behalf of Coproexnic and its producers for the support and trust you have given us. We are a small cooperative fighting for the social benefit of our producers’ families. Therefore, we hope to have the opportunity to continue working with Shared Interest in the future.”

A thriving crop with a social benefit

Sesame cultivation is appealing for small co-operatives and producers like Coproexnic as it does not demand large amounts of pesticides and nutrients, making it one of the cheapest in terms of investment costs.

Coproexnic is dedicated to improving the skills of their producers, offering them training in areas such as productivity, best practices, fertilisers, plague control, product safety and occupational health. Nevertheless, the major benefit Coproexnic provides to their producers is allowing them to sell their agricultural products at considerably higher prices than those of the local market; 40% higher in the case of sesame seeds and 45% higher for peanuts.