Highlights
- Thammasat University (TU), the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP), and Kasetsart University (KU) have launched a joint research project to enhance the production potential of grass jelly and the cultivation of Platostoma spp. found in Thailand.
- Test plots have been established across five provinces—Chiang Mai, Kamphaeng Phet, Loei, Bueng Kan, and Ubon Ratchathani—to identify the optimal soil formulas for seed germination.
- The project aims to elevate food security, develop new agro-industrial processing, generate community income, and ensure the sustainable conservation of national biological resources.
Despite the continuous growth of the grass jelly market in Thailand, the industry remains heavily dependent on imports of dried raw materials from countries such as China, Taiwan, Vietnam, and Indonesia. With over 400–500 tons imported annually, valued at 48–80 million Baht, production and transportation costs remain high.
In response, Thammasat University has partnered with the DNP and Kasetsart University to initiate a research project titled “Enhancing the Production Potential of Grass Jelly and the Cultivation of Platostoma spp. found in Thailand.” Supported by the Thailand Science Research and Innovation (TSRI) fund for the 2026 fiscal year, the project focuses on improving plant quality while creating jobs and distributing income to local communities.
Collaborative Efforts to Upgrade Thai Grass Jelly
The project features a multidisciplinary team of seven researchers from three main organizations. The team includes Asst. Prof. Dr. Tiwtawat Napiroon, a researcher from the Faculty of Science and Technology, Thammasat University, specializing in the phytochemistry of wild plants and herbs, working alongside six experts from the DNP and Kasetsart University.
Driving the Thai Economy through the BCG Model
The research is powered by the BCG (Bio-Circular-Green) Economy Model, integrating three key dimensions:
- Bioeconomy: Leveraging the biodiversity of Thai grass jelly species to develop high-value agricultural raw materials and food products, maximizing the potential of local resources.
- Circular Economy: Covering the entire value chain, from genetic conservation and breeding techniques to cultivation, raw material production, and processing into high-quality grass jelly products.
- Green Economy: Focusing on eco-friendly production methods, ecosystem conservation, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions to achieve a sustainable natural balance.
A Three-Step Implementation Plan
The project is divided into three core phases:
- Agricultural and Economic Assessment: Evaluating 16 species within the Platostoma genus found in Thailand (1 commercial species + 15 wild species). This involves collecting biological data, live specimens, and samples for phytochemical analysis, as well as studying cultivation and propagation methods across diverse environments in test plots nationwide.
- Phytochemical, Toxicological, and Nutritional Studies: Identifying key active compounds in Thai grass jelly species and comparing them with imported commercial varieties.
- Product Potential Development: Developing four specific types of grass jelly products (1 commercial variety + 3 wild varieties).
From Forest Exploration to Experimental Plots in 5 Provinces
Between November 2025 and February 2026, the research team conducted planning sessions, trained staff in plant identification, and designed data collection methods. Surveys were carried out to collect 11 samples across 10 species (1 commercial and 9 wild varieties), including mother plants, seeds, and soil samples.
Furthermore, test plots have been established in Chiang Mai, Kamphaeng Phet, Loei, Bueng Kan, and Ubon Ratchathani. These plots serve to test soil formulas for seed germination and propagation. Currently, the team is conducting ongoing experiments on vegetative propagation (cutting) for three species and seed propagation for another three species.
Elevating Thai Grass Jelly as a New Economic Crop
This research project aims to create a significant positive impact across multiple sectors. While 2026 marks the first year of the study, the three-year roadmap (2026–2028) is expected to bolster food security, pioneer new agro-processing industries, and provide sustainable income for communities. This initiative aligns with the national goal of utilizing the BCG Model to move towards a balanced, secure, and sustainable future.
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