Nam Can shrimp crackers blend tradition with modern technology

Shrimp crackers are a well-known speciality of Nam Can, where the traditional craft continues to be practised.

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Naturally sourced freshwater shrimp gives Nam Can shrimp crackers their characteristic rich flavour.

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Long-established producers have their own recipes, carefully balancing flour, seasonings and shrimp to achieve distinctive flavours and textures.

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As consumer demand grows, traditional household producers are registering their own brands and investing in more organised production to strengthen their businesses.

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Mai Sau, who developed the Vinh Hoa Phat shrimp cracker brand, has led efforts to introduce machinery and modern technology into the traditional production process.

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What began with basic machinery for cutting crackers has developed into a more comprehensive production system, enabling the family business to increase its output.

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Ingredients are blended according to the producer’s traditional recipe, while mixing, kneading, sheet forming, steaming and cutting are carried out using machinery.

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Mechanisation has substantially increased production capacity, helping preserve the distinctive flavour of fresh shrimp.

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Modern equipment helps shorten production time, reduce input costs and improve food safety and hygiene.

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Following early adopters, other traditional producers have also begun investing in machinery to standardise their production processes.

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More consistent product quality and output have enabled producers to supply major distribution networks in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.

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Vinh Hoa Phat enterprise produces around one tonne of shrimp crackers a day and supplies approximately four tonnes to overseas markets each month.

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By combining traditional know-how with modern production methods, Nam Can’s shrimp cracker makers are seeking to bring their local speciality to a wider market.