Kebondalem, Pemalang – As part of the implementation of the Thematic Community Service Program (KKN-T) Team 163 of Diponegoro University, student Amelia Syahrani from the Industrial Chemical Engineering Technology Study Program, UNDIP Vocational School, has successfully carried out a multidisciplinary work program 2 with the theme “Tempe Product Diversification: Mung Bean-Tapioca Tempe Innovation to Support Local Nutritional Tempe Chip MSMEs” in Kebondalem Village, Pemalang District, Pemalang Regency.
Based on the advice of the Field Supervisor Lecturer (DPL), namely Sri Risdhiyanti Nuswantari S.Tr.T., M.T., this program is based on the concept of food product diversification thru a fermentation biotechnology approach utilizing alternative substrates. Conventional tempeh, which is generally made from soybeans (Glycine max), was developed into an innovative product using green beans (Vigna radiata) as the main substrate, with the addition of tapioca (Manihot esculenta) as a binding agent and source of complex carbohydrates. In biochemistry, the fermentation process by the mold Rhizopus oligosporus on a green bean substrate produces a different essential amino acid profile compared to soybean tempeh, with high-quality protein content reaching 20-23%. The addition of tapioca serves as a natural prebiotic that supports the growth of probiotic microorganisms, while also improving the texture and shelf life of the product.
In this work program, Amelia conducted an outreach session on Thursday, August 7, 2025, using the audiovisual demonstration method by showing a tutorial video on how to make green bean-tapioca tempeh. Thru extension activities, MSME actors gained technical knowledge and skills in tempeh product diversification, which is expected to increase economic added value and the competitiveness of local products. “This multidisciplinary work program 2 has successfully integrated the industrial chemical engineering technology approach with community empowerment, creating innovative solutions for MSME development based on local potential,” said Dr. Ir. Fahmi Arifan., S.T., M.Eng., M.M., IPM. ASEAN Eng. The collaboration between students, supervising lecturers, and MSME partners resulted in sustainable technology transfer to improve the economic well-being of the Kebondalem Village community.