TV interview with Prof. Arinthip T. about Wolffia

Prof. Dr. Arinthip Thamchaipenet,Project Manager, gave an interview on the program “Wan-Mai Variety” on Thai PBS regarding the topic “Thai Food Plants and Culture Going Global”, which aired on JULY 14, 2025.

As the world faces major challenges such as food crises, climate change, and population growth, alternative foods or new sources of protein have become a key issue of global concern. Many countries are investing in research to find food sources that are sufficient, sustainable, and environmentally friendly.

In the program, Prof. Dr. Arinthip Thamchaipenet discussed Wolffia, a kind of Duckweed called “Phum” or “Khai Nam” in Thai, a tiny aquatic plant commonly found in Southeast Asian countries such as Thailand, Laos, and Cambodia. Phum is rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals, and has traditionally been consumed as a local food in Northeastern Thailand.

With its high nutritional value, Phum is now being promoted to the global stage through research and development by collaboration between Kasetsart University and Japanese researchers under the Be-HoBiD Project, supported by Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).

The research focuses on microorganisms found in Phum, its various species, and cultivation techniques aimed at enhancing its nutritional content. It also explores large-scale cultivation using plant factory systems to control growth conditions and ensure quality and consistency.

The research outcomes are expected to serve as a model that benefits farmers and SMEs, helping them produce Phum as a human food for the global market.

Link: https://youtu.be/hF20qU1PO2o?si=Ke9ilfI7TcwnNsmA

Note:The Be-HoBiD project stands for "Development of the Duckweed Holobiont Resource Values towards Thailand BCG (Bio-Circular-Green) Economy."