NUFFOODS Spectrum July 2024

64 pages including cover Eliminating Vulnerabilities oo July 2024 How Agritech Startups are Boosting Food Security and Reducing Wastage “The need is for honest food labelling to strengthen consumer trust” - Rashida Vapiwala, Founder, LabelBlind 43 46

Spectrum Hired Connecting Careers, Empowering Industries Looking for your dream job Biotech MedTech Food & Beverage Academic Research Agricultural Agritech industry Introducing Spectrum Hired - Your Gateway to Industry Success! www.spectrumhired.com Join the Spectrum Hired revolution at www.spectrumhired.com and discover a world of career opportunities tailored just for you. Unearth the latest Agricultural roles. Explore groundbreaking Biotech positions. Dive into the world of MedTech innovation. Savor the flavor of Food & Beverage careers. Contribute to cutting-edge Academic Research. Harness your potential in the dynamic Agritech sector. What makes Spectrum Hired your ultimate job portal? Unmatched Industry Focus: We specialize in your industry, ensuring you find the perfect match for your skills and aspirations. Cutting-Edge Job Listings: Discover the hottest job openings before anyone else. Personalized Alerts: Get tailored job recommendations straight to your inbox. Easy Navigation: Our user-friendly platform makes job searching a breeze. Don't let your dream job slip away. Visit www.spectrumhired.com today and embark on your journey to industry excellence. Your future is waiting! Spectrum Hired – Where Your Career Begins! [email protected] [email protected]

th th 11 - 12 July 2024 Shaping the Future of Fisheries Conference The conference’s central mission is to advocate for a safe, productive and sustainable environment for fishing communities. • Best practices in fisheries management • New technology for fishing • Government initiatives • Empowering women & marginalised groups in fisheries • Success stories Workshop • Harnessing technology for efficient fishing • Understanding certifications for fishing practices • Identifying market trends, building strong market linkages and adding value to their catch through processing and packaging techniques. National Expo • Trade show with more than 100 organizations • Separate pavilion for start ups showcasing new technologies Event Spectrum National Expo Conference Coastal Cultural Fest Workshops for Fishermen Nagpur : 402, Govind Apartment, W.H.C. Road, Shankar Nagar Sq.,Nagpur - 440 010 Ph : +91 712 2554997, +91 712 2555249 New Delhi : 103-104, Rohit House, 3 Tolstoy Marg, Connaught Place, New Delhi - 110 001 Ph : +91 11 4354 2737 Event Secretariat : +91 83838 53534 ­2024 CIDCO Exhibition & Convention Centre, Vashi, Navi Mumbai Scan QR Code Suppor For Registration Knowledge Partner ted by MAFSU Organised by MAHARASHTRA ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL’S Book your space now !

Scan the QR Code Scan the QR Code Scan the QR Code Scan the QR Code WOA and Saputo Dairy Australia mutually terminate MoU China –EU trade tension grows; Russia, US may boost pork import Japanese farm receives first ASC certification for commercial cherry salmon S. Korea and USA discuss cooperation in agri-food sector TOP STORIES 'NUFFOODS Spectrum' monthly publication is owned by MM Activ Sci-Tech Communications Pvt. Ltd., Published and Printed by Ravindra Boratkar, Printed at Spectrum Offset, D2/4, Satyam Industrial Estate, Behind CDSS, Erandawana, Pune - 411 038. and Published at 'Ashirwad', 36/A/s, S. No. 270, Pallod Farms, Baner Road, Near Bank of Baroda, Pune - 411 045. Editor: Narayan Kulkarni Reprinted for private circulation. Volume 11 | Issue 11 | July 2024 www.nuffoodsspectrum.in Publisher & Managing Editor Ravindra Boratkar CEO Manasee Kurlekar [email protected] Advisor - Content Vijay Thombre Editorial Chief Editor Dr Milind Kokje [email protected] Editor Narayan Kulkarni [email protected] Executive Editor Dr Manbeena Chawla [email protected] Assistant Editor Nitesh Pillai [email protected] SOUTH REGION Apoorva Mahajan Manager – Strategy & Partnerships “NITON”, No. 11/3, Block “C”, Second Floor, Palace Road, Bangalore, Karnataka- 560052 Mobile: +91-7724025888 [email protected] NEW DELHI International offices Anupam Chatterjee Regional Business ManagerNorth 103-104, 1st Floor, Rohit House, 3 Tolstoy Marg, New Delhi - 110001 Mobile: +91 9899815169 anupam.chatterjee@ agrospectrumindia.com PUNE Vrushti Kothari (Assistant Manager – Startup Ecosystem) Ashirwad, 36/A/2, S.No. 270, Pallod Farms, Baner Road, Pune-411045 Mobile: +91-7798935660 [email protected] NAGPUR Manisha Boratkar 402, Govind Apartments, Shankar Nagar Square, Nagpur - 440 010 Tel. +91-712-2555 249 MUMBAI Mandar More Regional Business Manager- West 1st Floor, CIDCO Convention Center, Sector 30A, Vashi, Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra-400703. Mobile: +91-9870009281 [email protected] ASIA PACIFIC AND SOUTH EAST ASIAAnkit Kankar General Manager - Strategy & Marketing #08-08, High Street Centre, 1 North Bridge Road, Singapore - 179094 HandHeld: +65 90150305 [email protected] SINGAPORE Saradha Mani MM Activ Sci-Tech Communications #08-08, High Street Centre, 1 North Bridge Road, Singapore - 179094 Tel : +65 6336 9142 Mobile: +6590681202 [email protected] NORTH AMERICA & EUROPE BioSpectrum Bureau MM Activ Sci-Tech Communications Mobile: +65 90150305 E-mail: [email protected] MM Activ Sci-Tech Communications Content Team Singapore: Hithaishi C. Bhaskar [email protected] Social Media Communications Poonam Bhosale [email protected] Production & Design MEDIA VISION, Pune Cover Design Dominix Strategic Design Pvt. Ltd. General Manager - Strategy & Marketing Ankit Kankar [email protected] Asst. General Manager- HR and Admin Asmita Thakar [email protected] Circulation, Subscription and Media Enquiry: Sudam Walekar [email protected]

Letter from Publisher Ravindra Boratkar Publisher & Managing Editor, MD, MM Activ Sci-Tech Communications Pvt. Ltd. Dear Readers, ‘Read information on food labels to make informed and healthy food choices’, is the Guideline No. 17 among the 17 Dietary Guidelines for Indians suggested by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)-National Institute of Nutrition (NIN) in its latest edition released in May 2024. The first edition was published in 1998 and the second edition came out in 2011. According to the guideline in the latest edition, health claims on packaged food are designed to catch the consumer's attention and convince them that the product is healthy. Though the Food Safety and Standard Authority of India (FSSAI) has strict norms, the information presented in labels could be misleading including such claims as All Natural, Real Fruit or Fruit Juice, Made with Whole Grain, Organic, Low fat or light, No Cholesterol or Heart Friendly, Good Source of Protein, Enriched with Vitamin D or other nutrients and/or Sugar Free. Manufacturers also use labels to make incorrect and incomplete claims about their food products. These claims presented on the package can be broadly categorised as Nutrition claim, Health claims, Risk reduction claims, and Other claims. The objective of such claims is to make consumers hooked to buying the products without any second thought. We have covered an article with inputs from experts from across the world on this crucial topic which encapsulates how there is a need for a timely intervention on part of the regulator to protect the health and rights of consumers. And a large number of multinational companies should comply with the globally accepted standards here in India as well. With the increase in global trade and a shift away from the traditional face-toface food producer and buyer relationship, there is a greater need to create food labels that are dynamic, clear and trustworthy. With this in mind, we have covered an interaction with an expert who has touched upon the current food labelling scenario in the country. Mushrooms have evolved into a vital component of human diet, serving both culinary and medicinal purposes for centuries. To preserve the bioactive compounds and secondary metabolites responsible for their health benefits, appropriate preservation techniques are imperative to uphold quality and to prolong shelf life. In this edition, we’ve covered an expert article that delves into traditional preservation methods such as cooling, antimicrobial washing, irradiation, and packaging, as well as emerging techniques like pulsed electric fields, ultrasound, and plasma. India experiences an estimated 100 million cases of foodborne infections annually. These infections result in the loss of 8 million years of healthy life due to disability and 120,000 deaths each year, according to the Indian Journal of Public Health and the Food Industry Capacity & Skills Initiative (FICSI). Foodborne infections pose a substantial burden and challenge to public health. In light of the increasing emphasis on food safety and quality, an expert in an article points out that effective food supply chain management is essential to ensure that safe and high-quality food reaches consumers' tables. I am sure you will find this edition a great read. Thanks & Regards, Ravindra Boratkar Publisher & Managing Editor NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | July 2024 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in 5

VULNERABILITIES ELIMINATING Claims are popularly placed on the front of food packages (FOP) as FOP attracts a lot of consumer attention. Presence of claims on the front of a package work as a signpost and help consumers focus on summary information and make an informed choice. When marketers use food images to make consumers remember health claims along with text-based information, consumers make false interpretations based on food images and forget about the text-based message suggesting that the food is unhealthy. A study published in Elsevier in September 2023 examined the presence of claims on 230 food packages marketed in India and the extent of compliance with guidelines provided by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). The results reveal that word claims (natural) and nutrient content claims are most popularly used on food packages. Still, a large number of claims used on food packages cannot be classified or verified due to the absence of clear definitions from the regulator. In addition to this, unhealthy foods carry claims and foods also contain claims which have been stated as prohibited. This calls for timely necessary actions on part of the regulator to protect the health of consumers. INSIDE 6 NUFFOODSSPECTRUM | March 2020 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in INSIDE NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | July 2024 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in COVER STORY 17

INSIDE NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | July 2024 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in 7 REGULARS 43 50 48 46 Speaking with Preservation Food Safety Wastage “The need is for honest food labelling to strengthen consumer trust” Future Perspectives of Mushroom Preservation Ensuring Food Safety in the Supply Chain How Agritech Startups are Boosting Food Security and Reducing Wastage Rashida Vapiwala, Founder, LabelBlind Komal Chauhan, Professor, Department of Food Science and Technology, National Institute of Food Technology Entrepreneurship and Management, Kundli, Sonipat, Haryana Arya Pise, Consultant- Agri, Food & Nutrition, Frost & Sullivan Editorial 09 Regulatory News 10 Company News 12 World News 15 People News 54 R & D News 57 Ingredients News 58 Supplier News 60 Let’s Talk Food 62

8 Please send your feedback to [email protected] Thanks for your feedback. We have taken note of your suggestions and will surely try to incorporate the content accordingly in coming issues. Please keep sending us your feedback and updating us on your views about the issue and keep giving your opinions on the content. – Editor Acknowledgements/ Feedback Acknowledgements /Feedback "The cover story was a comprehensive and wellpresented piece, packed with valuable information and data. It highlighted the critical aspects of customercentric practices and sustainable initiatives within the dairy sector. I look forward to reading many more insightful stories in the upcoming issues of NUFFOODS Spectrum." Jaini Shah, Mumbai The article on the Indian spices industry grappling with regulatory challenges from international food regulators provides a well-rounded perspective. It effectively captures the viewpoint of Indian food regulators and highlights the efforts of some foreign entities that seem aimed at undermining the Indian spices business. Renuka Mainde, Nagpur The NUFFOODS Spectrum June 2024 issue was a truly engaging read. The magazine was packed with informative and educational stories. I am eagerly looking forward to the upcoming issue of NUFFOODS Spectrum. Sanjay Sethi, Delhi NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | July 2024 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in

EDIT 9 Dr Milind Kokje Chief Editor Double Edged Decision NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | July 2024 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in I n recent times two issues have emerged which are at the crossroads of pharmaceuticals and nutraceuticals. The first is a proposal to bring nutraceuticals under the purview of the Central Drug Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO). The second is, not permitting nutraceutical production at the same facility where pharma products are manufactured. Nutraceuticals and health supplements are considered foods and hence regulated by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) since 2006 when a comprehensive food law was enacted. The government initiated a proposal to shift them from the FSSAI to CDSCO. In another development, the Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) decided to take action against pharma units which were manufacturing nutraceuticals, health supplements and drugs in the same facility. However, the government deferred the action against such companies following the industry’s request to reconsider the decision.The Federation of Pharma Entrepreneurs (FoPE) pointed out to the DCGI that any such action would affect exports and domestic market, especially for small and medium units. Regarding the proposed shifting of nutraceuticals to CDSCO for regulatory purposes also, the nutraceutical industry was upset over the proposed move. In both the cases, the government has appointed two separate committees of five members each to examine whether nutraceuticals manufacturing should be allowed at the pharma production site and whether nutraceuticals should be governed by CDSCO for better regulation. While the first committee has an industry representative as a member, the second committee comprises only officials and surprisingly no stake holder is a member. As per the existing revised Schedule M rules of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act 1940, a facility approved for drug manufacturing cannot be used to produce other products. However, exceptions were approved to some older plants, which were established prior to December 2001. This exception was then extended to all manufacturing units in 2007 following the Drug Consultative Committee’s decision. However, DCGI discontinued this exception in February and asked state authorities to take action against such manufacturing facilities for violation of rules. Although the immediate reasons for such a change are not clear, it is obvious that for any such change to take place adequate time will have to be provided for the pharma units to set up separate manufacturing facilities for nutraceutical manufacturing. Setting up such facilities may involve substantial investment and then a time frame to set up a facility by installing equipment. The industry feels that although the authorities’ viewpoint of avoiding cross contamination between pharma and nutraceuticals can be acknowledged, there cannot be a blanket ban. The decision should be left to individual competent officers to decide on a case-to-case basis. Norms to allow nutraceutical production already exist. The expert officers can verify whether the norms are being observed or not. They can also check the possibility of cross contamination on the basis of the type of drugs that are being produced and accordingly allow (or disallow) nutraceutical production at the pharma production facility. The reason for bringing nutraceuticals under pharma regulator is cited as some companies are seeking FSSAI approval for their health supplements despite their therapeutic usage and for the ingredients which are akin to drugs. Some are claiming disease management and disease risk reduction. This situation is creating confusion and could turn risky. Still, the industry feels that shifting nutraceuticals from the FSSAI to the CDSCO is not a solution. If some companies are misrepresenting their products, there are provisions to take action against them. There is a clear distinction between the two. Nutraceuticals focus on prevention and supporting wellness while drugs treat specific medical conditions. By bringing nutraceuticals under CDSCO, consumers will have to go to doctors even for nutraceutical prescriptions, it will affect the online sales and if nutraceuticals sales go down even farmers will be affected. Although the intentions of authorities for both moves are not doubted and in fact appreciated, they will have to take into consideration the stakeholders' views. More than bureaucracy, the issue should be left for the experts to decide on. Any move when initiated with the stakeholders' approval, at least to some extent, possibility of its smooth sailing and success is always more.

10 COMPANY NEWS NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | April 2021 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in REGULATORY NEWS The Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) in collaboration with IDRS Labs, Bengaluru has launched a Food Supplement / Nutraceutical AKTOCYTE which is aimed at enhancing the quality of life for cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy. Scientists from Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Mumbai; Advanced Centre for Training Research and Education in Cancer, Navi Mumbai, Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai; and IDRS Labs were involved in the making of the tablets. AKTOCYTE has received approval from the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). The development of AKTOCYTE tablets is supported by decades of scientific research at DAE. This product will be a landmark contribution towards affordable cancer care in India and the AKTOCYTE tablets will now be available in the market. The AKTOCYTE tablets have shown remarkable results, particularly in pelvic cancer patients suffering from radiotherapy-induced side effects. Patients treated with AKTOCYTE tablets demonstrated an extraordinary recovery from radiotherapy-mediated toxicity. The tablets, designed as an adjuvant to cancer radiotherapy, regenerative nutraceutical, immunomodulator, and antioxidant, mark a significant advancement in cancer care. Department of Atomic Energy develops nutraceutical AKTOCYTE APEDA facilitates first MD 2 pineapple export to UAE The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has mandated that all Food Business Operators (FBOs) immediately cease using '100% fruit juice' claims on labels and advertisements of reconstituted fruit juices. The FBOs must also deplete all existing pre-printed packaging materials by September 1, 2024. The FSSAI identified that many FBOs inaccurately market reconstituted fruit juices as '100% fruit juice.' Upon review, FSSAI found such claims misleading under the Food Safety and Standards (Advertising and Claims) Regulations, 2018. The regulation does not support '100% fruit juice' claims, especially when the primary ingredient is water and the actual fruit content is minimal or derived from concentrates or pulp. This directive aims to prevent consumer deception and ensure transparency in food labelling and advertising. In the clarification issued regarding the marketing and selling of reconstituted fruit juices as ‘100% fruit juices’. FSSAI directs removal of '100% fruit juice' claims from labels NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | July 2024 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, has successfully facilitated the export of the first consignment of MD 2 variety pineapples to the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The shipment, consisting of 8.7 metric tonnes (650 boxes) of MD 2 pineapples, was flagged off by APEDA Chairman Abhishek Dev, alongside senior officials from APEDA and the Indian Council of Agricultural Research-Central Coastal Agricultural Research Institute (ICAR-CCARI). Known as "Golden Ripe" or "Super Sweet," the MD 2 pineapple is a gold standard in the industry, widely cultivated in Costa Rica, the Philippines, and Thailand. ICAR CCARI provided crucial technical support for post-harvest management and sea protocol development for these pineapples, produced in Maharashtra's Sindhudurg district. This milestone marks a significant advancement in India's fresh fruit export sector.

REGULATORY NEWS 11 India’s seafood exports touch all-time high by volume in FY 2023-24 India’s seafood exports touched an all-time high in volume during the financial year 2023-24 despite various challenges in significant export markets. India shipped 17,81,602 MT of seafood worth Rs 60,523.89 crore ($7.38 billion) during 2023-24. Frozen shrimp remained the major export item in quantity and value, while the USA and China became the major importers of India’s seafood. During FY 2023-24, the export improved in quantity terms by 2.67 per cent. In 2022-23, India exported 17,35,286 MT of seafood worth Rs 63,969.14 crore ($8,094.31 million). Frozen shrimp, which earned Rs 40,013.54 crore ($4881.27 million), retained its position as the top item in the seafood export basket, accounting for a share of 40.19 per cent in quantity and 66.12 per cent of the total dollar earnings. Shrimp exports during the period increased by 0.69 per cent in quantity terms. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued a stern warning against the use of liquid nitrogen in food and drinks at the point of sale. This advisory is directed at restaurants, bars, and other establishments serving food at events such as fairs and weddings. The FSSAI has observed an increasing trend of using liquid nitrogen to create visually appealing food items such as ice creams, cocktails, meetha paan, biscuits, and desserts. Despite the visual appeal, the unauthorised use of liquid nitrogen in these applications has led to serious health issues and injuries. The FSSAI has emphasised that the use of liquid nitrogen directly at the point of serving or plating without proper authorisation is strictly prohibited. This practice is considered noncompliant with food safety regulations. Furthermore, adding liquid nitrogen at the point of sale, immediately before consumption, is not allowed under the Food Safety and Standards regulations. The University Grants Commission (UGC) has called on Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs) to disseminate food safety messages and initiatives from the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) among students. The UGC highlighted the global impact of foodborne diseases caused by mishandling, inadequate storage, or improper preparation, noting that students are particularly vulnerable due to their busy schedules and reliance on ready-to-eat meals. The UGC notice emphasised the importance of FSSAI’s efforts, stating, “The FSSAI, under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, shares updates on healthy food habits, educational campaigns, and alerts related to foodborne illness through its social media channels.” HEIs are encouraged to leverage these resources to educate and empower students about food safety. According to the UGC, the FSSAI initiative aims to educate students about the importance of food safety measures, providing them with the knowledge and skills needed to make informed decisions about their dietary choices. UGC calls upon HEIs to promote FSSAI food safety initiatives FSSAI issues warning on liquid nitrogen use in food and beverages NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | July 2024 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in

12 COMPANY NEWS NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | April 2021 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in COMPANY NEWS Coca-Cola India, after pioneering the introduction of 100 per cent recycled PET (rPET) by the beverage industry in India, is taking another meaningful step towards creating a circular economy. The company has announced the launch of CocaCola in ASSP with 100 per cent Recycled PET (rPET) in 250ml bottles, starting with the state of Orissa. Manufactured by Coca-Cola’s bottling partner, Hindustan Coca-Cola Beverages Pvt. Ltd. (HCCBPL), this initiative underscores the company’s commitment to sustainability, with a focus on reducing carbon footprint and promoting environmental responsibility. Compared to conventional virgin PET packaging, in the ASSP (Affordable Small Sparkling Package), emissions are reduced by 36 per cent through the light-weighting of PET material. Additionally, the shift from virgin PET to recycled PET in ASSP contributes to a further reduction in the carbon footprint, resulting in an overall 66 per cent decrease compared to non-ASSP packaging with virgin PET. Coca-Cola India launches ASSP with 100% recycled PET bottles Incredio, a subsidiary of HealthKart, a leading health supplement company in India, announced the reintroduction of its popular Slim Shake in two delectable flavours – Chocolate and Mango. This relaunch aims to offer a simple, effective, and sustainable weight loss solution tailored specifically for health-conscious Indian consumers. By offering one wholesome nutritious shake that helps cut out excess calories from the diet, Incredio Slim Shake has become a recent favourite in India. It provides a sustainable weight loss plan that eliminates the need for fad diets and unattainable gym goals. Each serving of Incredio Slim Shake is a nutritious meal replacement, packed with 22g of a triple blend protein (Whey, Soy, and Casein) that keeps you fuller for longer, 6.7g of high fibre that helps with digestion & fullness, and only 221 calories. Enriched with 24 essential vitamins and minerals, it supports healthy, longterm weight loss without requiring extreme diets, ensuring an effective and balanced approach to achieving health goals. It provides the precise amount of protein, fibre, vitamins, and minerals needed while eliminating approximately 480 unnecessary calories from the diet daily. Suja Life, the leading functional wellness platform and parent company of Suja Organic and Vive Organic, announced its acquisition of the soda brand, Slice. With the addition of Slice, Suja Life’s better-for-you beverage portfolio expands, continuing the momentum that began in 2022 with its acquisition of Vive Organic. The deal represents Suja Life’s continued dedication to offering beverages that provide incremental health benefits with low sugar and clean ingredients. Under Suja Life’s innovative guidance, Slice will be reintroduced in 2025 with a fresh look and revamped formula featuring pared-down clean ingredients. Slice is a popular fruit-flavoured soda that was first introduced in the 1980s to much fanfare. While the improved ingredients will bring a new healthy soda option to Suja Life’s portfolio, the flavours and taste profile will resemble the classic, nostalgic sodas people know and love. The relaunch of Slice will not just be an allnatural, low-calorie soda, but one that delivers advantages for gut health with superior nutrition, function and taste. Suja Life acquires cult classic soda brand Slice Incredio reintroduces Slim Shake in 2 flavours NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | July 2024 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in

COMPANY NEWS 13 PepsiCo India has introduced its renowned hydration brand, Gatorade, to the Jammu & Kashmir market, expanding its beverage offerings in the region for the first time. Gatorade, known for promoting active lifestyles and emphasising the importance of hydration, will be available in all three popular flavours: Blue Bolt, Orange, and Lemon. The rollout of Gatorade in Jammu & Kashmir aligns with PepsiCo India's ongoing campaign 'Sweat Makes You Shine', aimed at encouraging individuals, especially the youth, to stay active and achieve their full potential through proper hydration. Beyond addressing dehydration, Gatorade aims to instil confidence and self-belief in consumers, supporting peak performance in various pursuits. To celebrate the launch, a notable event was held in Jammu, graced by esteemed personalities including members of Jammu & Kashmir Cricket Association and Shubham Khajuria, current captain of the Jammu & Kashmir cricket team and former India U19 player. PepsiCo India launches hydration brand Gatorade in J&K Hamdard invests in SIG’s aseptic carton technology Crius Life Sciences, a prominent name in the nutraceutical industry, has launched its innovative oil-infused gummies, setting a new standard in the market by offering a superior alternative to traditional softgels. The introduction of oil-infused gummies marks a significant transformation in the global nutraceutical landscape, combining health benefits with consumer-friendly formats. This innovation is a unique and highly effective consumer-friendly format for delivering active nutraceuticals. Crius Group, known for its leadership in contract development and manufacturing for pharmaceuticals and nutraceuticals, has utilised its extensive expertise to develop these cutting-edge gummies. The company upholds its commitment to quality and innovation, adhering strictly to EU GMP standards. Hamdard Laboratories India (Food division), a company known for its health and wellness products and beverages, has partnered with SIG to leverage its advanced aseptic carton packaging and filling solutions. The fast and flexible filling technology from SIG will help Hamdard meet the evolving consumer needs when it comes to affordability, the right size, long-lasting quality and convenience. Hamdard opted for a SIG XSlim 24 Aseptic filling machine, which will be operated in its Aurangabad (Maharashtra) manufacturing plant. The advanced filling machine can fill 24,000 SIG XSlimBloc carton packs per hour and has the flexibility to fill nine different volume sizes ranging from 80ml to 200ml on the same filling line. The changeover time when switching pack size takes less than 15 minutes. This flexibility allows Hamdard to easily and quickly right-size their products based on consumer demands. Hamdard will utilise SIG’s filling technology to package, for example, new varieties of the century-old iconic beverage brand RoohAfza, which includes milkshakes, lassi, juices, glucose drinks, and coconut water in SIG XSlimBloc carton packs, and will be available with a drinking straw. Hamdard will also partner with other industry players to explore copacking opportunities. Crius Life Sciences unveils India’s first oil-infused gummies NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | July 2024 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in

14 COMPANY NEWS Aayush Food and Herbs Ltd, a listed, leading organisation in the herbal and food products industry, is excited to announce its transformation into Aayush Wellness Ltd to reflect its commitment to providing holistic health and wellness solutions across the globe. The company has received shareholder’s approval for a change of name to “Aayush Wellness Limited” and has applied to the Ministry of Corporate Affairs for its final approval. Over the years, Aayush Food and Herbs Ltd has established itself as a trusted provider of internationally highquality food-oriented products. With the increasing demand for integrated wellness solutions, the company recognised the need to broaden its scope and cater to the evolving needs of its customers. Aayush Wellness Ltd will now encompass a wider range of products and services, including advanced nutraceuticals, nutritional supplements, functional and health foods, and therapeutic solutions, specifically formulated to support physiological wellbeing, address the root cause of problems, and provide essential nutritional supplementation to. Aayush Food and Herbs transforms into Aayush Wellness In a pioneering move set to transform fitness and nutrition in India, Good Fettle Pvt Ltd has introduced PodNutrition, an innovative vegan protein brand emphasising taste, purity, and nutritional excellence. Crafted with precision, PodNutrition raises the bar for plant-based supplements, offering guilt-free indulgence without sacrificing flavour or quality. PodNutrition reflects Good Fettle's commitment to high-quality, sustainable, and ethically sourced nutrition. Addressing the protein deficiency in 73 per cent of Indians, PodNutrition provides a timely solution with its blend free from artificial colours, sweeteners, soy, and dairy. It mixes effortlessly in water, smoothies, or recipes, suiting various dietary preferences. More than just a protein brand, PodNutrition promotes a wellness-focused lifestyle, supporting recovery and fitness goals. Available in flavours like Strawberry Cream and Chocolate Latte, and in two protein variants – Lean POD (16g) and Strong POD (26g) – it caters to diverse needs. PodNutrition is available on the company's official website. Good Fettle redefines vegan protein with the introduction of PodNutrition Steadfast launches fast-release protein supplements NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | July 2024 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in Steadfast Nutrition, a leading innovator in performance and wellness nutrition, has added three exciting new supplements to its product lineup. It has launched two fast-releasing protein supplements, Whey Protein and LIV Raw and a vegetarian Multivitamin mega pack comprising a whopping 180 tablets to fulfil Indians’ unmet protein and nutrient needs, respectively, catering to health and fitness-conscious people and serious sportspersons. The supplements were launched at Asia’s largest health and fitness festival – the International Health Sports and Fitness Festival (IHFF). Steadfast Nutrition’s Whey Protein provides 24 g of fast-releasing whey protein concentrate, which accelerates muscle protein synthesis and helps in instant muscle recovery. It is quickly absorbed and digested by the body and comes in a chocolate flavour. It is free of any colours, preservatives or thickeners otherwise common in protein supplements.

NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | July 2024 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in WORLD NEWS 15 Lesaffre, an independent key global player in fermentation and microorganisms, announces the signing of a transaction with dsm-firmenich, a leading innovator in nutrition, health and beauty, regarding its yeast extract business. Lesaffre and dsm-firmenich have reached agreement for a multi-part collaboration in yeast derivatives serving the savoury ingredients space. Lesaffre will acquire dsm firmenich’s yeast extract go-to-market organisation and know-how, enabling the production of dsm-firmenich’s yeast extract products in Lesaffre’s global manufacturing network. This acquisition of talent and know-how and a technology partnership with dsm-firmenich will strengthen Lesaffre’s trajectory in the savoury ingredients market, bolstering its current R&D expertise and expanding its range of high-quality products. Acquiring dsm-firmenich’s yeast extract processing technologies will enable Lesaffre to better serve customers in savoury and other fermentationbased applications. It is a transformative strategic step for Biospringer by Lesaffre, a global provider of innovative natural-origin solutions from yeast fermentation. Lesaffre acquires dsm-firmenich’s yeast extract business ADM's spore-forming probiotic DE111TM receives TGA approval in Australia European dairy cooperative Arla Foods is taking another significant step in reducing the climate impact of dairy farming. Arla Foods announced that all of Arla’s 200 million kilo fresh milk pool in Danish retail- and foodservice became part of the company’s FarmAhead Customer Partnership programme. The FarmAhead Customer Partnership links Arla's data-driven climate reduction efforts with customer demands for dairy products with a lower carbon footprint. The partnership allows customers in retail and foodservice to become partners on climate reduction initiatives taking place on Arla’s farmer owners’ farms and provides customers with access to data that can be used in their own ESG reporting and to support their scope 3 climate goals. The programme was first launched in 2023 in the UK under the “Customer Sustainability Programme ''- name, where the first contracts with customers including Aldi, Asda and Morrisons covers more than 1 billion kilos of milk. Arla, Danish to accelerate climate reductions and protection of biodiversity ADM, a global leader in innovative solutions from nature, announced that spore-forming probiotic DE11 (Bacillus subtilis) has received official approval from the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), a part of the Australian Department of Health. This extends DE111's availability into new regions, following the recent approval from the National Health Commission (NHC) in China. Clinically documented results show that DE111: Supports digestive health and helps support healthy immune function; Can survive through the stomach and germinate in the small intestine and Can support a healthy gastrointestinal (GI) tract, gut function and microbiome diversity. In Australia, 81 per cent of consumers recognise a link between digestive health and overall well-being, and 76 per cent specifically see a connection between their digestive health and immune function. Plus, 64 per cent of Australian consumers state that they have used probiotics/ cultures to address digestive health concerns over the past 12 months.

16 WORLD NEWS Bunge is broadening its product lineup to include pea and faba protein concentrates, complementing its existing soy protein concentrate portfolio. This expansion involves a collaboration with Golden Fields, a prominent agricultural company and dry miller of pea and faba in Europe. Golden Fields has established a new factory in Liepaja, Latvia, dedicated to producing these proteins exclusively for Bunge, aimed at meeting the growing demand for plant proteins in food, pet, and feed sectors. Bunge’s new pea and faba protein concentrates are non-GMO, light in colour, finely powdered, and offer protein content ranging from 55-70 per cent on a dry basis. These attributes enable food and feed manufacturers to enhance protein content easily while supporting nonGMO and allergen-free labeling requirements. Importantly, Bunge’s pea and faba protein concentrates contribute to sustainability by utilising peas and faba beans sourced through crop rotation practices. The extraction process involves dryfractionation, eliminating the use of water or solvents typically used in pulse protein production. Bunge expands protein portfolio with pea and faba concentrates GrubMarket acquires Parsemony, food supply chain software services provider The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) has released its latest Food Outlook, forecasting adequate supplies of most major food commodities for 2024-25. However, the report highlights potential risks such as extreme weather, geopolitical tensions, and policy changes that could disrupt global demand-supply balances, impacting prices and food security. Key findings include record production levels expected for rice and oilseeds, with modest declines anticipated for wheat and maize outputs. The biannual publication offers updated forecasts and market assessments for wheat, coarse grains, rice, oil crops, sugar, meat, dairy products, and fisheries. FAO's preliminary estimate indicates a 2.5 per cent increase in the global food import bill for 2024, surpassing $2 trillion. This uptick is attributed to favourable macroeconomic conditions, including steady global economic growth and lower food commodity prices, influencing market dynamics in the year ahead. GrubMarket, a leader in AI-powered technology for the food supply chain, has acquired Parsemony, based in Alameda, California, renowned for its enterprise software services tailored for fresh produce distributors and wholesalers. Founded originally as Vintrex Inc., Parsemony is known for its Profitsense software, rebranded in 2017 under owner Colin Hare. This acquisition bolsters GrubMarket’s software capabilities, enhancing its WholesaleWare and GrubAssist platforms. Parsemony offers cloud-based POS solutions for inventory and order management, custom software engineering for ERP enhancements, and comprehensive IT services tailored to food supply chain needs. Post-acquisition, Parsemony will operate independently under its current leadership, with customers gaining access to expanded AIdriven solutions from GrubMarket’s suite, including AI Orders and GrubPay. This strategic move aims to deepen GrubMarket’s footprint in digital transformation within the food industry, ensuring seamless integration and enhanced operational efficiencies for its clientele. FAO foresees stable outlook for food commodity markets in 2024-25 NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | July 2024 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in

NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | July 2024 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in COVER 17 VULNERABILITIES ELIMINATING Claims are popularly placed on the front of food packages (FOP) as FOP attracts a lot of consumer attention. Presence of claims on the front of a package work as a signpost and help consumers focus on summary information and make an informed choice. When marketers use food images to make consumers remember health claims along with text-based information, consumers make false interpretations based on food images and forget about the text-based message suggesting that the food is unhealthy. A study published in Elsevier in September 2023 examined the presence of claims on 230 food packages marketed in India and the extent of compliance with guidelines provided by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). The results reveal that word claims (natural) and nutrient content claims are most popularly used on food packages. Still, a large number of claims used on food packages cannot be classified or verified due to the absence of clear definitions from the regulator. In addition to this, unhealthy foods carry claims and foods also contain claims which have been stated as prohibited. This calls for timely necessary actions on part of the regulator to protect the health of consumers.

18 COVER NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | July 2024 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in A directive issued by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) on June 3, 2024, a number of fruit juice manufacturers in India are forced to be more vigilant about what they write or claim on their product packaging and labels. For example, Dabur's fruit juice brand "Real" is one of the brands that might need to be bothered by this directive. According to the mandate, all Food Business Operators (FBOs) have been asked to remove any claim of ‘100 per cent fruit juices’ from the labels and advertisements of reconstituted fruit juices. All the FBOs have also been instructed to exhaust existing pre-printed packaging materials before September 1, 2024. Another such example is of so-called ‘Health Drinks’ and ‘Energy Drinks’ that have been enjoying impressive sales nowadays but are recently going through the same phase as "100 per cent fruit juices". The regulator has noted instances of food products licensed under 'Proprietary Food' with the nearest category – Dairy Based Beverage Mix or Cereal Based Beverage Mix or Malt Based Beverage – being sold on e-commerce websites under the category ‘Health Drink’, ‘Energy Drink’, etc. The FSSAI has clarified that the term ‘Health Drink’ is not defined or standardised anywhere under the FSS Act 2006 or rules/regulations made thereunder. Therefore, the authority has advised all e-commerce FBOs to promptly rectify this misclassification by removing or de-linking such drinks or beverages from the category of ‘Health Drinks / Energy Drinks’ on their websites and place such products in the appropriate category as provided under the extant law. Followed by this, Hindustan Unilever Ltd (HUL), which has multiple brands like Horlicks and Boost under it, has rebranded its 'health drinks' category as 'functional nutritional drinks' and dropped the 'health' label from Horlicks. According to a study conducted by Guru Nanak Dev University, Punjab in 2023, claims are popularly placed on the front of food packages (FOP) as FOP attracts a lot of consumer attention. When marketers use food images to make consumers remember health claims along with text-based information, consumers make false interpretations based on food images and forget about the text-based message suggesting. In May 2024, Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and the National Institute of Nutrition (NIN) released a report stressing misleading packaged food labelling and claims. The report emphasises on the various terms that mislead consumers and result in different health hazards. Ranging from ‘Natural’ to ‘low fat’, F&B manufacturers have been developing their packaging and labels in such a way that consumers are Analysis of claims on unhealthy foods across food categories Source: Research paper titled "Examining claims on food packages in India: Are they inadequate and deceptive?" by Guru Nanak Dev University, Punjab

NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | July 2024 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in COVER 19 hooked and buying the same products without any second thought. Misleading information on Food & Beverages (F&B) products packaging is often used by the manufacturers and followed blindly by most of the consumer, mainly in the rural areas. "From a policy perspective, food labelling can gauge consumers’ response to the safety conditions of packaged food. However, understanding consumers’ awareness and the use of food label information has attracted little research attention in many developing countries," observed Olubunmi A Omotesho, Deputy Vice-chancellor, University of Ilorin, Nigeria. Is ‘All natural’, All good? ‘Natural’ is a term often used rather loosely. It is used by manufacturers to identify one or two natural ingredients in the mix and this can be misleading. Food companies cannot use words such as ‘natural’, ‘fresh’, ‘original’, ‘traditional’, ‘pure’, ‘authentic’, ‘genuine’ and ‘real’ on the labels unless the product is not processed in any manner except washed, peeled, chilled and trimmed or put through other processing which could alter its basic characteristics. In March 2019, FSSAI had made it mandatory for brands to procure permission to use such words on the product. The circular issued by the apex food regulating body, stated that where the meaning of a trade mark, brand name, or fancy word containing adjectives such as natural; fresh, pure etc. appears in the labelling, presentation, or advertising of a food product in a way that is likely to mislead the consumer about the nature of the food, a disclaimer not less than 3mm in size should be given in an appropriate place on the product. It should state 'This is only a brand name or trade mark and doesn't represent its true nature.' Although the disclaimer exists on a number of products and product packaging nowadays, it is again a point of argument whether it serves its purpose or it is just a way to sneak such products into the market with legal approvals. Appropriate consumer education is necessary in this matter as only savvy consumers are likely to find this disclosure disturbing and not the rest will remain unbothered. "Natural is a word with no official definition in most countries. It is a commonly used term on labels and advertising for food and other products. The United States Food and Drug Administration (USFSA) has given only an unclear guideline on what constitutes natural instead of an actual definition. “Natural” is not a single concept and, thus, is difficult to define. Practical applications and understanding how consumers make decisions about whether a food is “natural” or not is key to understanding how new products are formulated Misleading Claims listed by ICMRNIN Dietary Guidelines for Indians- 'No cholesterol or Heart friendly': No plantbased oil contains cholesterol. However, all oils are 100 per cent fat and therefore should be consumed in moderate quantities. 'Good source of protein, vitamin D' or other nutrients': A good source means that a single serving of that food has 10 per cent to 19 per cent of the amount of that nutrient. While this information is useful, read about the quantity of these nutrients with reference to daily nutrients recommended. 'Sugar free': People often associate sugar-free foods with lower calories and perceive these to be beneficial for diabetics and weight watchers. Sugar-free foods may be loaded with fats, refined cereals (white flour, starch) and even hidden sugars (maltitol, fructose, corn syrup, molasses). These would imply high glycaemic index and high calories in the food 'Made with whole grain': These words could be misinterpreted. Such a statement does not necessarily imply that the food items are not tertiary or ultra-processed. Source: ICMR-NIN Dietary guidelines for Indians and then perceived by consumers. Most of the issues are associated with a lack of understanding or knowledge or the perception that healthfulness drives naturalness," said Edgar IV Chambers, University Distinguished Professor, Kansas State University, US. Honey which is often labelled "100 per cent Natural" undergoes various levels of processing, and it's hard to know how much just from looking at the labels. Same in terms of "All Natural" icecreams. These contain way more than milk, eggs, and sugar—such as "natural flavours," modified starches as thickening agents, and juice concentrates as flavours and sweeteners. Moreover, most of the sweetened bottled iced teas which are labelled "Natural'' rely on high-fructose corn syrup instead of real sugar. These and many other familiar products label and claim their products to be "Natural" frequently. Made with "Real Fruits!" According to the FSSAI regulation, any food item with even a small amount, for example, fruit juices containing only 10 or less per cent of fruit added to a product is allowed to state that the product is made with real fruit pulp or juice. But the product claiming to have real fruit

20 COVER NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | July 2024 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in or fruit chunks may have added sugar and other additives with only 10 per cent actual fruit pulp. In May 2023, ITC's Sunfeast launched smoothies which claimed to be including real fruit chunks in it. On the product packaging, the Mango, Strawberry, Litchi and Peach-Pineapple smoothies had a presentation of chunks of Mango, Strawberry with chia seeds, real fruit, pineapple with basil seeds respectively on the product packaging. During the same period, ITC's another brand, B Natural Juices & Beverages had launched Fruits 'N Bits, yet another fruit beverage infused with the real fruit chunks and seeds. The company also claimed that these offerings were made with zero concentrates, no added preservatives, and with real fruit & seed inclusions. Along with ITC, a number of big and small players launched similar products. Such cases are debatable and require further attention by the regulatory body. Although the real fruit chunks part might take a little Common Nutrient Content Claims Calorie-free, reduced fat, low sodium, natural, high fibre, high in-, good source of-, glutenfree, fat-free, less sugar, fortified, enriched, lean, cholesterol free, low cholesterol, unsalted, lightly salted, good source of fibre and many more are all common examples of nutrient content claims that are plastered on the front of a food item, deeming it "healthy." Source: University of New Hampshire longer for authorities to take action on, the products claiming "100 per cent Fruit Juices" are already under surveillance of FSSAI. The body has concluded that such claims are misleading, particularly under conditions where the major ingredient of the fruit juice is water and the primary ingredient, for which the claim is made, is present only in limited concentrations, or when the fruit juice is reconstituted using water and fruit concentrates or pulp. Beth Czerwony, Registered Dietician, at Cleveland Clinic, US while commenting on the consumption of such so called "100 per cent fruit juices'' said, "Drinking 100 per cent fruit juice certainly sounds like a perfect choice for health, but that’s not necessarily a 100 per cent accurate assessment. The high-sugar content in juice nearly matches what’s found in sugary sodas, which are not exactly known for being healthy. (The vitamins in This Means That: Popular Nutrient Content Claims and What They Mean Source: University of New Hampshire website This That "Calorie-Free" Less than 5 calories "Lean" Less than 10 grams fat, 4.5 grams of saturated fat Fat-free or sugar-free" Less than 1/2 gram of fat or sugar "Good source of" Provides at least 10% daily value of a specific vitamin or nutrient "Light or lite" 1/3rd fewer calories than the usual food, half the fat of usual food "Low calorie" Less than 40 calories "Low cholesterol" <20 mg of cholesterol, 2 grams or less of saturated fat "Low sodium" <140 mg of sodium "Natural" No added artificial or synthetic ingredients "Organic" At least 95% of ingredients are organic "Reduced" <25% of specified nutrient or calories than the usual product

NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | July 2024 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in COVER 21 “ Understanding consumers’ awareness and the use of food label information has attracted little research attention in many developing countries." - Olubunmi A. Omotesho, Deputy Vice-chancellor, University of Ilorin, Nigeria “ Natural is a word with no official definition in most countries. It is a commonly used term on labels and advertising for food and other products." - Edgar IV Chambers, University Distinguished Professor, Kansas State University, USA “ The high-sugar content in juice nearly matches what’s found in sugary sodas, which are not exactly known for being healthy." - Beth Czerwony, Registered Dietician, Cleveland Clinic, USA “ Organic food is believed to be more healthy than conventional food because it contains more bioactive compounds which may be related to a decrease in metabolic diseases." - Dr Vishnu Choudhari, Associate Professor and Head of the Pharmaceutical Chemistry Department at the School of Pharmacy (formerly Maharashtra Institute of Pharmacy), Pune juice make the drink better for you than soda, of course.) But if you’re looking at it from a sugar perspective, they’re basically one and the same. Moreover, some of the fabulous benefits of fruit disappear during the juicing process." Now, as the FSSAI is keeping an eye on such claim on fruit juices in India, for marketing and selling of reconstituted fruit juices as ‘100 per cent fruit juices’, FBOs are reminded that they must comply with the standards for fruit juices as specified under sub-regulation 2.3.6 of the Food Safety and Standards (Food Products Standards & Food Additives) Regulation, 2011. This regulation states that products covered by this standard must be labelled in accordance with the Food Safety and Standards (Labelling and Display) Regulations, 2020. Specifically, in the ingredient list, the word “reconstituted” must be mentioned against the name of the juice that is reconstituted from the concentrate. Additionally, if added nutritive sweeteners exceed 15 gm/kg, the product must be labelled as ‘Sweetened juice’. It's Organic if it's"Jaivik Bharat organic!" When a food label states 'organic', it may simply mean that it is free of all artificial preservatives, flavours and colours and that the food ingredients are free from pesticides and chemical fertilisers. If both the above are met, then the label can state 100 per cent organic and have the 'Jaivik Bharat' logo approved by FSSAI. Stressing on the benefits of 100 per cent organic food, Dr Vishnu Choudhari, Associate Professor and Head of the Pharmaceutical Chemistry Department at the School of Pharmacy (formerly Maharashtra Institute of Pharmacy), Pune said, "Organic food is believed to be more healthy than conventional food because it contains more bioactive compounds (such as polyphenols, vitamin C, and carotenoids) and n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), which may be related to a decrease in metabolic diseases. Organic food, on the other hand, is lower in heavy metals and harmful compounds, such as cadmium (Cd) and pesticides, which have been linked to immune system dysfunctions and poisonings in humans. In addition, several studies show a connection between the organic food and health of consumers and their lifestyles." Following the guidelines of FSSAI, the companies like Jivamrit Organic, Akshayakalpa Organic, House of Veda,

22 COVER NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | July 2024 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in “ Many large food manufacturers, including Nestlé and PepsiCo, are looking to help consumers make “balanced and mindful choices” with FOP labels, but they are struggling to find the best label type." - Peeter Verlegh, Professor of Marketing and the Head of the Marketing Department, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Netherlands “ While the fat content is indeed lower, the high sugar content is often downplayed or overlooked." - Tim Döring , Assistant Professor of Marketing at the School of Business and Economics (SBE), Maastricht University, Germany etc have secured Jaivik Bharat logo on their product packaging. However, there are a number of products in the market which are said to be organic but are lacking FSSAI's Jaivik Bharat logo. The reason could be higher production cost as compared to their conventional counterparts. Post-harvest handling of relatively small quantities of organic foods results in higher costs because of the mandatory segregation of organic and conventional produce, especially for processing and transportation. A number of other factors including environmental enhancement, rural development, etc. exist due to which manufacturers deliver spurious inorganic products under the claim "organic". 'Low fat' is 'High sugar,' Always! The 'low fat' trend that began in the late 20th century has significantly influenced consumer behaviour and food marketing. Driven by public health campaigns that blamed fats for heart disease and obesity, the food industry responded by introducing a plethora of 'low fat' products. These products were rapidly perceived as synonymous with health, but this equation was oversimplified. "To be clear, the term "Low Fat" is technically accurate, and if the product's fat content is 3g of fat per 100g or lower, the product can legally carry such a claim. However, this claim doesn't capture the whole truth about the product's nutritional value. It is "truthful yet misleading." While the fat content is indeed lower, the high sugar content is often downplayed or overlooked. This partial truth leads consumers to a skewed perception of the product's healthfulness," said Tim Döring , Assistant Professor of Marketing at the School of Business and Economics (SBE), Maastricht University, Germany. Among Indian consumers, perceptions about such health claims remain doubtful. Hence, the product packaging showing 'Low fat' words attract healthconscious consumers who unknowingly make unhealthy choices. Way ahead… Study conducted by the scholars of Guru Nanak Dev University, Punjab which examined the presence of claims on 230 food packages marketed in India and the extent of compliance with guidelines provided by the FSSAI, a large number of claims used on food packages cannot be classified or verified due to the absence of clear definitions from the regulator. In addition to this, unhealthy foods carry claims and foods also contain claims which have been stated as prohibited. These findings call for timely necessary actions on part of the regulator to protect the health of consumers. Although a part of the F&B business operators are using their product packaging, claims and labels as the source to attract more sales, a number of genuine producers are looking for clear guidelines on placing such claims on their products. Peeter Verlegh, Professor of Marketing and the Head of the Marketing Department at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Netherlands said, "Many large food manufacturers, including Nestlé and PepsiCo, are looking to help consumers make “balanced and mindful choices” with FOP labels, but they are struggling to find the best label type. In fact, these companies are calling for one internationally agreed-upon format. This exemplifies the lack of consensus on the format and effectiveness of different FOP labels but strong motivation among the industry for finding a good solution, calling for a systematic review of what works and what doesn’t." Nutrition education programmes, planned at the government level, can be effective only when the information offered on food packages is truthful. In absence of complete information, it is difficult for the consumers to build an understanding of nutrients and nutrition composition of foods and match them with their needs. In addition to this, the regulations drafted by FSSAI in India must conform to globally accepted standards also as a large number of multinational companies operate in India making it easier for the companies to comply and the regulator to monitor and check implementation. Mansi Jamsudkar [email protected]

THEMINISTRY in action of Agriculture, Agrifood and FORESTRY

Production and processing of agricultural products Economic development, business competitiveness, environmental and regional performance, risk protection, economic organisation, quality signs SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT OF THE AGRICULTURAL, FOOD AND FORESTRY SECTORS AND RURAL AREAS THE CORE TASKS OF THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE, AGRIFOOD AND FORESTRY Sustainable management of forests and their products Multifunctional forest management, sector competitiveness, adding value to wood, prevention of fire, restoration of mountain land CONTENTS AGRIFOOD FRANCE’S LEADING INDUSTRIAL SECTOR P.4 A MINISTRY COMMITTED TO COMBATING CLIMATE CHANGE P.6 THE COMMON AGRICULTURAL POLICY 2014-2020 A REFORMED, FAIRER CAP BETTER FOR JOBS AND LIVESTOCK FARMING P.7 MAKING AGROECOLOGY A FORCE FOR FRANCE P.8 MANAGING FORESTSSUSTAINABLY FOR A COMPETITIVE WOOD SECTOR P.10 PUBLIC POLICY ON FOOD MAKING OUR MODEL FOR FOOD A STRENGTH FOR THE FUTURE P.12 SANITARY SAFETY FROM FIELD TO FORK P.14 ADDING VALUE TO PRODUCTS P.15 AGRICULTURAL EDUCATION & TRAINING A 100% NATURAL FUTURE P.16 HIGHER EDUCATION IN AGRICULTURAL, VETERINARY & LANDSCAPE SCIENCES P.17 A MINISTRY CLOSE TO USERS USER SERVICES, ONLINE PROCEDURES P.18 SOCIAL PROGRESS IMPROVING PROTECTION FOR FARMERS P.19 Document produced by the delegation for information and communication. February 2016. Photos © Thinkstock, except p. 11 © Xavier Remongin/Min.agri.fr

3 FOOD QUALITY AND SAFETY; ANIMAL AND PLANT HEALTH AGRICULTURAL TRAINING & RESEARCH Five statutory tasks  Training (generalist, technical and vocational, initial and continuous)  Participation in energising and developing the regions  Contributions to integration in school, society and work  Contributions to the development of agriculture, experimentation and innovation  Participation in international cooperation Policy on horses, equestrian businesses and racing Economic development of the sector, regional integration, oversight of racing Rural development and dynamism Development focuses for agriculture, relations with non-profit associations Employment legislation and social protection in farming Policy on food The safety of food for health, hygienic production and processing conditions; combating food waste, improvement of the market offering in food; promotion of the French sanitary system Protection of plant health Plant health, national biological surveillance (including woodland health); balanced use of inputs; plant breeding resources Animal health and protection Definition and oversight of regulatory controls (land and aquatic livestock health; feedstuffs; animal welfare); livestock identification and traceability; veterinary pharmacy; surveillance FR 01-001-001 CE Leadership and management of all agricultural training Public technical training and education in agriculture; private agricultural training; higher agricultural and veterinary education Leadership and definition of policy on research

4 agrifood: FRANCE’S LEADING INDUSTRIAL SECTOR AN industrial SOLUTION smart food Nine industrial solutions for nine high-priority markets:  regaining competitiveness in the meat trades;  opening up the market in functional foodstuffs;  making a mark in the packaging of the future;  becoming the leader for sustainable refrigeration;  guaranteeing food & beverage quality and safety;  integrating digital tools;  building an industry of global reference in enzymes and proteins;  adopting a structured approach to go out and conquer global markets. New schemes to help enterprises become more competitive  A tax measure allowing extra depreciation allowances for productive assets.  Measures to reduce social charges in the “responsibility pact”, notably the tax credit for competitiveness and employment (CICE).  Tax credits for research and innovation (CIR/CII).  Introduction of the investment programme for the future (PIA) via the agricultural and agrifood projects for the future (P3A) programme promoted by FranceAgrimer with funding of €150m.  BpiFrance’s thematic call for projects relating to functional and custom foods, with funding of €20m.  Calls for projects from the official environmental and energy saving agency (ADEME). 16,220 168.9 57.2 AGRIFOOD GENERATES FRANCE’S THIRD LARGEST TRADE SURPLUS – €9.1 BILLION IN 2014 – AFTER THE AVIATION AND PHARMACEUTICAL INDUSTRIES in 2013, excluding craft commerce in 2014

5 BEVERAGES, WINES AND SPIRITS ARE FRANCE’S BIGGEST EXPORT PRODUCTS 5.6% OF THE WORLD’S AGRIFOOD EXPORTS COME FROM FRANCE The agrifood sector contract covers 720,000 employees and over 72,000 establishments (agrifood manufacturing, cooperatives and craft food retailers). This action plan, which is shared between central government, regional authorities and the sector itself, is structured around five themes:  jobs;  finance and innovation;  the green challenge;  exports, quality and promoting the French food model;  in-sector relations. A SECTOR THAT IS RECRUITING Agrifood sector actors have increased the commitments they gave in the sector contract in 2013 under a new agreement for the development of agrifood sector skills and jobs unveiled in October 2015. NEW TARGETS FOR THE PERIOD 2014-2016:  RECRUITMENT OF 100,000EMPLOYEES ON PERMANENT CONTRACT (+10,000), INCLUDING 50% UNDER-30s AND 5.5% OVER-50s;  RECRUITMENT OF 170,000 YOUNG PEOPLE ON PROFESSIONALISATION AND APPRENTICESHIP CONTRACTS (+20,000). Alongside this, by supporting training programmes the food industry jobs charter, which has been renewed for 2015-2016 with total funding of €15m, helps develop employment, contributes to anticipation and assistance for economic change and enhances the sector’s attractiveness. 434,700 EMPLOYEES in 2013 not including craft commerce

6 A MINISTRY COMMITTED TO COMBATING CLIMATE CHANGE Farming and forestry can contribute between 20 and 60% to potential mitigation of GHG emissions over the period to 2030. Preservation of farmland and pastures can save 8-10 million tonnes of CO2. Changes to farming methods can save 12-15 million tonnes of CO2 through livestock farming (covers for slurry pits, biogas flares, methanisation, feed), fertiliser use (precise input dosage, organic nitrogen), and carbon storage in soils (soil cover, simpler working of the soil, longer crop rotations). In order to respond to the issues posed by climate and food security, the 4 per 1,000 initiative was launched by Stéphane Le Foll during COP21 and is part of the Lima-Paris Action Agenda (LPAA) organised by the Ministry. The 4/1,000 Initiative: soils for food security and climate: If the quantity of carbon held in the soil can be increased by 0.4% every year, the annual increase of CO2 in the atmosphere can be halted.  4p1000.org the Paris agreement * 196 “parties” signed the Paris Agreement (195 countries and the European Union). * A historic agreement: after the disappointment of Copenhagen in December 2009, it is the first binding global agreement on the climate. * A universal agreement: the 196 parties undertook to confront climate change as well as bringing the commitments given by the major emerging nations closer to those of the developed world. * An agreement for the long term intended to stand the test of time. Only the contributions will be updated regularly. The commitments given by countries will be renegotiated every five years on the basis of an evaluation of the thencurrent status of the collective effort. * An ambitious agreement: the parties are bound to revise their commitments upwards in order to be able to keep rises in global temperatures well below 2°C and to seek to limit rises to 1.5°C. * The Paris Agreement encourages countries to reduce their emissions and to conserve and expand their carbon sinks, including the agriculture and forestry sectors.

THE COMMON AGRICULTURAL POLICY 2014-2020, A REFORMED, FAIRER CAP, BETTER FOR JOBS AND LIVESTOCK FARMING A priority: defending livestock farming using levers to focus support more effectively one BILLION EUROS REDIRECTED TO LIVESTOCK FARMING OVER THE PERIOD TO 2019 SUPPORTFROM A PROTECTED BUDGET FOR FRANCE €9.1bn a year over the period 2014-2020 (compared with €9.3bn in 2013), which means €64bn for French farmers over the next seven years. HELPINGFARMING SYSTEMS THROUGH THE ECOLOGICAL TRANSITION ▶ A doubling of the budget for agroenvironmental measures. ▶ A doubling of the budget for organic production. ENCOURAGINGYOUNG PEOPLE TO SET UP IN FARMINGS ▶ 1% of 1st pillar support – €75m – for direct support to 10,000 new farmers. ▶ Another €25m from the 2nd pillar for the scheme to support new entrants. REDUCING DISPARITIES BETWEEN FARMERS BY LEAVING HISTORICAL REFERENCES BEHIND Staged convergence of support payments, reaching 70% in 2019, with a 30% cap on individual losses linked to convergence. INTRODUCTION OF A PLAN FOR FARM COMPETITIVENESS AND ADAPTATION This plan will target livestock housing in particular. ▶ At least €200m a year from the EU, the French government and those local authorities wishing to contribute. ▶ This will double the current funding envelope. IMPROVING RISK PREVENTION AND MANAGEMENT INSTRUMENTS The necessary funds will be taken from the 1st pillar. SUPPORTING ACTIVITY AND EMPLOYMENT ON ALL FARMS ▶ Extra support payments for the first 52 hectares. ▶ Gradual implementation over the period 2015-2018 up to an envelope equal to 20% of 1st pillar support. IMPROVING SUPPORTFOR ANIMAL PRODUCTION THROUGH COUPLED SUPPORT PAYMENTS An increase in “coupled support” from 10% to 15% of the 1st pillar budget, going to animal production as a priority: ▶ maintenance of the budget for current livestock support payments; ▶ introduction of a dairy cow premium; ▶ Plus 2% – €150m – for the development of fodder selfsufficiency on farms through support for plant protein production (lucerne, protein crops, etc.). All of which means an extra €250m for the benefit of livestock farming. ENHANCINGSUPPORT FOR FARMING IN LESS FAVOURED AREAS ▶ A 15% increase in the compensatory allowance for permanent natural handicaps (ICHN) from 2014. ▶ Simplification through inclusion of an amount equivalent to the agrienvironment grassland premium (PHAE) in the ICHN allowance from 2015 on. ▶ Eligibility granted to milk producers in all geographical areas. All of which means an additional envelope of €300m every year at the end of the period, reaching €1.1bn a year. 7

8 MAKING AGROECOLOGY A FORCEFOR FRANCE FARMERS ADOPTING AND APPLYING THE PRINCIPLES OF AGROECOLOGY ARE COMBINING ECONOMIC, ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL HIGH PERFORMANCE. The 12 keys to agroecology: Training for farmers Agroecology means developing and rolling out new crop and livestock farming methods. With the “Teaching to Produce Differently” action plan, agricultural training and education has equipped itself with the means to prepare farmers for a more sustainable, more effective approach to production. Developing and leading collective projects It is essential to stop looking at each field separately and to see a farm as a whole, adopting a holistic approach in which activities are mutually complementary and imbalances offset each other. In this way, agroecology draws all its strength from a collective approach and shared projects. Something now accomplished with the creation of the Economic And Environmental Interest Grouping (EEIG). Fostering natural mechanisms that combat the enemies of crops Phytosanitary products (pesticides) help protect agricultural production. The purpose of the Ecophyto plan is to reduce their use. They can be backed or replaced by natural mechanisms. Rather than eradicating pests, biocontrol helps manage the balances between them. Advising farmers The importance of assistance to farmers provided by development actors and networks is crucial to change in French farming. Those actors need to move towards agroecology in order to provide farmers with effective advice for the transition. The agroecology diagnostic tool for holdings has been provided to achieve exactly that.

9 Assisting transition French agriculture is governed by EU regulations and supported by the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP). In 2015 a new CAP framework was defined at EU level for the following five years. Working within EU rules, France has set out to make use of the available room for manoeuvre to focus the various support schemes on benefiting agroecology projects for farming in France. Involving and mobilising sectors and regions If the transition to agroecology on French farms is to be successful, it will require implementation of collective projects involving farmers and others in their regions, plus the development of synergies between farmers. The agroecology transition must be extended beyond agriculture by organisations present in the regions, local government authorities in particular. Selecting the right seed An appropriate choice of crops for the prevailing climatic conditions, the soil and the needs of the first agrarian communities enabled farming to develop. French farming systems and the wide variety of crops testify to a constant concern to identify species and varieties ever more precisely suited to the demands and constraints of production. That is the goal of the Sustainable Agriculture and Seeds plan. Encouraging organic farming Organic agriculture is a mode of production protective of the environment that helps maintain water quality, soil fertility and biodiversity. It is fully part of the agroecology project for France. Reducing the use of veterinary antibiotics Antibiotics are currently used to treat bacterial infections in both human and veterinary medicine. The purpose of the Ecoantibio plan is to combat inappropriate use on livestock in order to reduce the risk of resistance to antibiotics. Enriching the soil Conserving soil carbon content and restoring or improving degraded farmland soil are issues key to meeting the threefold challenge posed by food security, the adaptation of food systems and populations to climate disruption and the mitigation of anthropic emissions. Such is the issue underlying the 4 per 1,000 Initiative. Encouraging beekeeping Beekeeping is an essential component of agriculture because a third of everything we eat would not exist if bees were to disappear. France has everything it needs to be a great beekeeping nation if action is taken simultaneously to ensure good health for these peerless pollinators, the biodiversity essential for their environment and an effective structure for the beekeeping sector. Using tree to improve production Putting nature’s resources to the best possible use without abusing them means adopting agroforestry, enabling the cohabitation on farmland of the usual forms of production (crops, livestock) with trees. By using all available space and resources, this range of farming techniques can improve farmland yields and thereby farm productivity.

10 31% of metropolitan France EUROPE’S3RD LARGEST AREA OF WOODLAND 16 million hectares in metropolitan France 8.5 million hectares in France’s overseas territories MANAGING FORESTSSUSTAINABLY FOR A COMPETITIVEWOOD SECTOR 138 TREE SPECIES Deciduous trees, of which three species predominate (oak, beech and chestnut) account for two-thirds of all stands. 3 CATEGORIES OF OWNER Central government, local government authorities and private owners (the majority: 74% of all woodland). SUSTAINABLE MANAGEMENTWOOD MATERIALENERGY

11 A NATIONAL ACTION PLAN FOR THE FUTURE OF THE WOOD PROCESSING INDUSTRIES  Affirmation of a new sector dynamic.  Application of public and private funding to build a competitive market offering.  Use of immediately available and structurally effective levers obedient to a coherent policy for integrated sector development and enterprise support.  Undertaking structural changes in the sector without delay, via the Strategic Wood Sector Committee of the National Industrial Council, to enable development of more competitive market supply. Economic, Environmental and Forestry Interest Groupings make it easier for willing woodland owners to act collectively THE STRATEGIC FORESTRY AND WOOD FUND finances projects for investment, research, development and innovation and will provide support for the policy focuses of the future national programme for forestry and wood. THE FORESTRY-WOOD SECTOR REPRESENTS TURNOVER OF 60 BILLION EUROS AND MORE THAN 440,000 JOBS

12 PUBLIC POLICY ON FOOD Social justice Providing access for all to sufficient quantities of high-quality food, notably by facilitating food donation. Fostering social integration or reintegration based around food. Improving the quality of the market offering in food for everybody. Combating food waste Encouraging supermarkets to donate food products to charities. Acting to educate young people in combating waste using appropriate teaching materials. Conducting an awareness-raising campaign via social media. Acting to combat food waste in hospitals and medico-social facilities. Mobilising all actors in the food supply chain around a national anti-waste pact. Supporting local programmes and initiatives. Dietary education for the young Educating children for an appropriate and diversified diet. Ensuring ongoing improvement in children’s dietary choices. Recreating the links with the origins of the foods people eat, restoring the perceived value of foodstuffs. Providing educational teams with appropriate teaching materials. Rooting institutional catering in its region and prioritising local procurement Facilitating projects that encourage local procurement of high-quality products for institutional catering. Provision of all forms of available financial support at national and EU levels to match each stage in the building of local projects relevant to local procurement. Supporting deployment of regional food projects. MAKING OUR MODEL FOR FOOD A STRENGTH FOR THE FUTURE four PRIORITY FOCUSES FOR ACTION

food donations TWO TOOLS TO MAKE FOOD DONATIONS EASIER: an information document listing all the ways food can be donated to non-profit associations and setting out the relevant tax incentives, plus – in order to facilitate contacts with donors – an online map of associations officially approved to receive donations.  aidealimentairepna.cartographie.pro TAX REBATES FOR DONATIONS FROM THE INDUSTRY: “Following on from milk in 2013 and eggs in 2014, we have worked to ensure the availability of this option for fruit, vegetables and potatoes in order to enhance the incentives for farmers to donate their products. Helping the community’s most disadvantaged members is an essential demonstration of solidarity at a time when every year four million people use food banks either occasionally or regularly.” Stéphane le Foll, Minister of Agriculture, Agrifood and Forestry 13 THE 6WASTE-BUSTING ACTIONS 1 “Manger c’est bien, jeter ça craint” (Love Food, Hate Waste): the public commits to mobilising those around them by promoting a web campaign to reduce food waste. 2 Supermarket chains and processors undertake to sell just the right quantities. 3 Non-profit associations undertake to expand food collection and redistribution. 4 Institutional caterers undertake to link up producers with buyers by creating online platforms. 5The national wholesale markets undertake to recover unsold foodstuffs and recycle them via food banks. 6 Municipal authorities undertake to facilitate collection of foodstuffs. FOOD WASTE The ministry has set up a national pact to combat food waste. A national steering committee bringing together all actors in the food supply chain (farming and industry unions, interbranch bodies, agricultural and agrifood federations, retailers, caterers and restaurants) has put forward concrete measures. “A fruit for playtime” is a programme 76%-funded by the European Union for the distribution of fruit to children at primary and secondary levels. Starting with the 2015-2016 school year the programme will move on to supporting purchases of fruit and vegetables. The attractiveness of the scheme has been enhanced for both local government and suppliers by introducing flat-rate funding and teaching support measures.

14 in production working with growers, fishermen and livestock farmers IN PROCESSING working with cooperatives, dairy manufacturers, slaughterhouses and manufacturers of meatand fish-based products and feedstuffs IN RETAIL DISTRIBUTION transport, warehousing, institutional catering and restaurants, plus retail outlets AT NATIONAL BORDERs for imported and exported livestock, plants and foodstuffs WHERE ARE CHECKS CARRIED OUT? Checks on farms On farms, checks on crop health, use of plant protection products and compliance with regulations. On livestock farms, identification of the animals, their diet and the use of veterinary medication, application of animal welfare rules and efforts to combat livestock diseases, with help from sanitary veterinarians. Checks at France’s borders Foodstuffs and products of animal origin, live animals, plants and plant products from countries outside the European Union on arrival in ports and airports. A document check (sanitary certificates) and a visual inspection (appearance, presence of parasites, temperature) plus laboratory testing where necessary. If the results of the checks are unfavourable the products are destroyed or entry denied. Checks on slaughterhouses Constant inspections are carried out in slaughterhouses on the following: food safety for health and hygiene; animal protection and welfare; traceability; absence of contaminants. Checks on premises Inspections are carried out in the premises of food manufacturers, restaurants and markets to verify food hygiene, the integrity of the cold chain, cleaning procedures and staff training. food safety from field to fork France’s sanitary safety system is among the world’s most effective 4,800 government officials and 14,000 officially approved sanitary veterinarians work in this area with 30 national reference laboratories

An official guarantee for the consumer A GUARANTEE GU OF ORIGIN OF A GUARANTEE OF SUPERIOR QUALITY GUARANTEE GUARA D TRADITIONAL RECIPE A GUARAN A GUARANTEEOF ENVIRONMENTAL AND ANIMAL MENTAL AND ANIMAL WELFARE COMPLIANCE A collective, voluntary programme for producers Maintenance of economic activity in rural areas, especially in mountain regions Strict, government-validated production conditions Regular checks by independent, governmentapproved organisations OFFICIAL QUALITY AND ORIGIN SIGNS HIGH ENVIRONMENTAL VALUe THE GENERAL AGRICULTURAL COMPETITION Environmental certificates, introduced in February 2012, are a tool to help achieve the goal of combining ecological and economic high performance in the agroecology project for France. They take account of criteria relating to biodiversity, phytosanitary strategy, water management and fertiliser use. The High Environmental Value (HVE) logo was created to allow farmers and growers (including many winegrowers) adopting this environmental programme to enhance the value of their high-quality products for consumers and wholesalers. The logo can be placed on finished products containing at least 95% of base materials derived from HVE holdings. GH ENVIR Since 1870 the general agricultural competition has highlighted what is best in the production of French farms. It is the only such competition to be conducted under the aegis of the French ministry of agriculture. 25 categories of locally-based products 6,000 tasters 3quality levels, gold, silver and bronze medals 15 ADDING VALUETO PRODUCTS

16 AGRICULTURAL EDUCATION & TRAINING Agricultural,forestry, aquacultural and seafood production The processing and marketing of the resulting products Agrifood manufacturing and farming-related industries Animal and plant health and protection, hygiene, food quality and safety Planning, development, management, protection for rural areas, woodland, water, natural habitats and landscape Services for the public and local regions COURSES IN MANY DIFFERENT SECTORS 80% find work THE OUTCOME OF A UNIQUE EDUCATIONAL SYSTEM WITH LOCAL ROOTS AND AT THE HEART OF THE LIVING WORLD “TEACHING TO PRODUCE DIFFERENTLY” Agricultural holdings and technical training units in agricultural training schools are places of innovation not only in techniques but also in teaching methods, with the purpose of passing on agroecology knowhow to trainees and the farming profession. FUTURE 100% NATURE More than 460,000 pupils, students, apprentices and interns in continuous training 813 public and private establishments across the whole of France 190 public-sector agricultural holdings 34technical training units 18,000 hectares under crops The core tasks of agricultural vocational training  Provision of general, technical and vocational training, both initial and continuous.  Contributions to the school, social and occupational integration of both young people and adults.  Participation in regional dynamism and development.  Contributions to activities for agricultural and agrifood development, experimentation and innovation.  Participation in international cooperation programmes, notably encouraging exchanges and the hosting of pupils, apprentices, students, interns and teaching staff.

17 HIGHER EDUCATION The core tasks of higher education in the agricultural, veterinary and landscape sciences  Dispensing training and contributing to environmental education, notably by participating in the dissemination of scientific and technical information. Promoting diversity in recruitment and contributing to social and vocational integration.  Participation in policy on scientific development by conducting research, innovation and engineering programmes and helping to monitor emerging scientific and technical developments.  Assisting in the implementation of international scientific, technical and educational cooperation and contributing to the building of a European area of higher education and research as well as to the attractiveness of France itself.  Supporting technical agricultural teaching, notably by providing initial and continuous training for staff. International cooperation International cooperation is deeply rooted in the day-to-day activities of all establishments in the form of exchange programmes enabling part of the student’s course to be completed abroad, study trips, company internships, interdisciplinary projects and development education programmes. OVER 30GEOGRAPHICAL NETWORKS OVER 3.000 MINISTRY-FUNDED STAYS ABROAD 20 16,000 students A range of courses at levels from high school + 3 to + 8 years OENOLOGISTS DOCTORATES VETERINARIANs VOCATIONAL DEGREES PUBLIC SERVICE EXECUTIVES LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS MASTERS DEGREES ENGINEERS establishments ACROSS THE WHOLE OF FRANCE FINDING EMPLOYMENT 88% 98 joint research units (UMR) RESEARCH 35 joint technology units (UMT) 29 joint technology networks (RMT) 32 standalone research units 25 technical institutes 985 senior scientific staff employed in research units 702 doctoral students, including 400 at the ABIES doctoral school AGRICULTURAL VETERINARYLANDSCAPE SCIENCES

18 A MINISTRYCLOSE TO USERS USER SERVICES,ONLINE PROCEDURES CONTACTING THE MINISTRY BY EMAIL This has been possible since November 2015 for making applications on line, sending official documents and asking questions, with the same guarantees as registered postal mail. agriculture.gouv.fr/contactfaq DIAGNOSTIC ANALYSIS OF FARM COMMITMENT TO AGROECOLOGY PRACTICES This agricultural development tool is aimed at helping farmers look at their holding’s performance, methods and approaches, as well as estimating their degree of engagement in agroecology. Provided free of charge on the Internet, it has been designed by the ministry with ACTA.  diagagroeco.org INTERNET AND THE REGIONAL FOOD, AGRICULTURE AND FORESTRY DIRECTORATES (DRAAF) mooc Online education in agroecology is now available to all: farmers & growers, researchers, students and consumers. Available free of charge, this new approach to learning has been put on line on the FUN (France Université Numérique – France digital university) platform. It has four main sections: the emergence of agroecology, the different approaches, its applications (agroforestry or using trees in farming, combined cropping, conservation agriculture) and a final section devoted to the sharing of experience. TelePac mobile This is a smartphone app developed by the ministry in conjunction with ASP. Running in Android, it allows you to keep track of your CAP payments and mail.  play.google.com/store/apps ONLINE REGISTRATION FOR AGRICULTURAL TRAINING Sirena is the overhauled information system on agricultural training courses, enabling students to register on line.  chlorofil.fr/sirena sanitary safety in restaurants Transparency for the outcomes of official food safety inspections in the commercial catering sector is currently being rolled out following a trial phase in Paris and Avignon over the period July-December 2015.  agriculture.gouv.fr/transparence MESDEMARCHES.AGRICULTURE.GOUV.FR All ministry procedures can be accessed on line. The website has answers to the most straightforward questions from users on issues relating to agriculture, agrifood, forestry and agricultural training and provides the necessary documents to complete formalities over the Internet or on paper. For those working in the industry, private pet owners, parents of students and owners of woodland, it provides a guarantee of rapid access to reliable information and rapid completion of official procedures.  mesdemarches.agriculture.gouv.fr DRAAF websites now have new ergonomics with reinforced functions for editorial management and network leadership. agriculture.gouv.fr/reforme-territoriale-la-nouvelle-carte-des-draaf

19 THE AGRICULTURAL MUTUAL SOCIAL INSURANCE FUND (MSA) An enhanced one-stop service The social security finance law of 2014 strengthened the unique role of the MSA by entrusting it with complete responsibility for the management of the obligatory basic social welfare scheme covering sickness and occupational accidents. The formalities for individuals hitherto privately insured will now be simpler. All insured persons will be managed entirely by the MSA and they will have a single contact for all basic welfare claims. Upgraded agricultural retirement pensions The legislation of 20 January 2014 guaranteeing the future viability and fairness of the pension system introduced a catch-up plan for retired farmers, guaranteeing a minimum pension equal to 75% of the minimum wage for a full quota of qualifying years. The plan will be rolled out over three years. Illness and accident Since January 2014 heads of holding and their staff and family helpers can receive daily allowances for illness or a non-occupational accident. The flat rate contribution of €200 paid by the head of holding also covers, where applicable, all other family members working on the farm. The allowance, which is paid after a seven-day waiting period, is around €21 for the first 28 days and €28 from the 29th day. PAYING OUT NEARLY €27.5 BILLION IN BENEFITS TO €5.6 MILLION BENEFICIARIES, THE MSA IS THE SECOND LARGEST WELFARE SCHEME IN FRANCE. IT COVERS THE ENTIRE FARMING POPULATION, BOTH SALARIED AND NONSALARIED. SOCIAL PROGRESS IMPROVING PROTECTION FOR FARMERS A GUARANTEE OF A RETIREMENT PENSION EQUAL TO 75% OF THE MINIMUM WAGE FOR A FULL QUOTA OF QUALIFYING YEARS 238,000 BENEFICIARIES SINCE 2015 Guaranteed minimum pension for farmers in % 70.8% 2013 73% 2015 74% 2016 75% 2017

AGRIFOOD GENERATES FRANCE’S THIRD LARGEST TRADE SURPLUS WITH €9.1 BILLION IN 2014 AFTER THE AVIATION AND THE PHARMACEUTICAL INDUSTRIES agriculture.gouv.fr alimentation.gouv.fr agripicture.fr twitter.com/Min_Agriculture facebook.com/Alimagri minagri-infographies.tumblr.com minagriculture.tumblr.com farming france france ACCOUNTS FOR19% OF EUROPEAN AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTION, more than germany 15% and Italy 10% 40%of france’s LAND AREA IS NATURAL ENVIRONMENTs (FOREST, MOORLAND, ROCK, ETC.) 922,000people WORK ON FARMS IN FRANCE 63%people OR 581,000 ARE FARMERS 23% FEWER THAN 13 YEARS AGO of HEADS and joint HEADS OF HOLDING ¼ARE WOMen WOMEN REPRESENT 32% OF THE PERMANENT AGRICULTURAL WORKFORCE WOODLAND COVERS 17 million hectares OR NEARLY 31% OF METROPOLITAN FRANCE 54%of france’s land area is FARMLAND THE MAJOR FIELD CROPS (CEREALS, OILSEED, PROTEIN CROPS, BEET, ETC.) REPRESENT A LITTLE OVER 40% OF UTILISED AGRICULTURAL AREA 16.5% Are CEREAL CROPS WHEAT ACCOUNTS FOR 53% OF CEREAL PRODUCTION FRANCE IS THE WORLD’S FIFTH BIGGEST PRODUCER AFTER CHINA, INDIA, RUSSIA AND THE USA France the Eu’s biggest CATTLE HERD 19 million hEAD OF CATTLE INCLUDING 3.7 m DAIRY COWS POULTRY 14% milk 36% CATTLE 22% PIGS 13% VEAL CALVES 6% EGGS 4% SHEEP & GOATS 3% other 3% THE MAIN TYPES OF ANIMAL PRODUCTION BEVERAGES, WINES, AND SPIRITS ARE FRANCE’S BIGGEST EXPORT PRODUCTS 5.6% OF THE WORLD’S AGRIFOOD EXPORTS COME FROM FRANCE FOLLOW THE MINISTRY’S ACTIVITIES Source: Agreste Graphagri France has 474,000 agricultural holdings

Rashida Vapiwala, Founder, LabelBlind “The need is for honest food labelling to strengthen consumer trust” Food Labelling is an effective tool to protect consumer health in terms of food safety and nutrition. With the increase in global trade and a shift away from the traditional face-to-face food producer and buyer relationship, there is a greater need to create food labels that are dynamic, clear and can be trusted. In such a scenario, digital food labelling has emerged as one of the powerful tools for product and labelling compliance, guidance and awareness, labelling automation, comprehensive nutrition assessment and market readiness. LabelBlind is a pioneer in the space of digitising food labelling in India. The company’s SaaS platform, FoLSol is India’s 1st AI-led Digital Food Labelling Solution that digitises the labelling workflow of collaborating teams through the lifecycle of a food label - from label creation to AI-led label validation - that makes food labelling accurate, easy and efficient for PD, QA and Regulatory Teams. Rashida Vapiwala, Founder of LabelBlind, shares her thoughts on the food labelling scenario in India. Edited excerpt: What are the recent trends in the Indian F&B labelling? Please give a comparison with the global trend.  Food labelling in India is undergoing a transformative shift, significantly influenced by the heightened awareness of consumers, proactive regulatory measures, and innovative approaches by manufacturers. Food Labelling is a subject that is primarily held together by 3 key stakeholders – Consumers, Regulator and Food manufacturers. Post-COVID Consumers who demand transparency in Food Labelling ‘Best Foods’ searches have grown 10X, followed by skin, energy and brain Health food influencers command 2-3 million followers scrutinising food labels and publishing content for consumers Large brands are under the scanner on basis of the information declared on food labels A few items on the food label are gaining unprecedented consumer attention – that is, the list of ingredients – too long and it indicates the level of processing that food has undergone, additives that indicate the artificial nature of the food item, macronutrient levels of carb, fat, the protein that the consumer has now started to decipher very clearly, and allergen sensitivity. The Regulator and Legislature have never been more active NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | July 2024 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in SPEAKING WITH 43 The Centre has issued a directive requiring all advertisers and advertising agencies to submit a 'Self-Declaration Certificate' before publishing or broadcasting any advertisements after directives from the Supreme Court. FSSAI clarified that "Health Drink" is not defined or standardised anywhere under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 and advised FBOs to rectify this misclassification by placing such products in the appropriate category as per the law. The term ’energy drinks’ is permitted to be used only for products which have been licensed under that specific food category system. FSSAI is considering the front-of-pack labelling (FOPL) regulations for India. We are proud to have done the baseline nutrition study for the FOPL regulations and believe this will be a game changer for the Indian consumer. Menu labelling regulations were introduced in 2020 for the food service industry E-commerce regulations were introduced in 2020 for a rapidly growing industry Use of QR code was mandated for the food industry Directives are issued for implementation of menu labelling in inflight and railway catering The food manufacturer and here we are, witness, to some very interesting developments concerning labelling in food companies

44 SPEAKING WITH NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | July 2024 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in Digital and AI Innovations Transforming Food Labelling Digitisation of processes and the use of AI to automate the labelling process within companies. A space that we are working in with some of the leading food companies Use of vernacular languages in food labelling Use of QR code to declare critical information to guide consumer choices Clean label products with minimal processing and additives Global food labelling that makes Indian products compliant with regulations in multiple countries India is a part of the global food market and all the developments that I spoke of are such that it is gaining prevalence across countries, India being no exception. The cases of labels being misleading are prominent in the F&B industry. What are your thoughts on this? What are the common incidents where labels are found misleading in the F&B industry? Can you give some examples of companies that were/are found doing such unethical practices?  Food Safety and Standards (Advertising and Claims) Regulations, 2018 defines the claims exhaustively to guide food companies. The Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI) Reports Surge in Food and Beverage Advertising Violations in its Annual Complaints Report 2022-23 and 2023-24 In 2022-23, Top 10 violated categories mentions F&B at no. 6 (713 cases) on a base of 7581 cases In 2023-24 in its Top 10 violated categories mentions F&B at no. 5 with 783 cases of violations of a total of 8062 violations Additionally, 1249 advertisements of drugs and magic remedies from 239 advertisers were reported to the Ministry of AYUSH during the year for potential violation of the Drugs and Magic Remedies Act, 1954 (DMR). We have been part of the ASCI experts panel of food ad-assessment and have noticed violations including 1. Unsubstantiated Nutrition claims 2. Non-addition claims 3. Health claims 4. Nutrient function claims 5. Reduction of disease risk claims 6. Claims related to dietary guidelines or healthy diets 7. Conditional claims 8. Claims containing adjectives such as “natural”, “fresh”, “pure”, “original”, “traditional”, “Authentic”, “Genuine”, “Real”, etc. 9. Prohibited claims, e.g., no claims shall be made which refer to the suitability of the food for use in the prevention, alleviation, treatment or cure of a disease, disorder or particular physiological condition unless specifically permitted under any other regulations made under Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. Now, misleading claims could be due to deliberate manipulation of data and information or through ignorance of standards. Regulations do not distinguish between reasons for non-compliance to claims, and hence the responsibility for representing correct and honest data always rests with the food company. What should authorities do to reduce such incidents of misleading labels?  Countering the threat of food mislabelling needs a multi-pronged collaborative approach to accelerate adherence to regulatory compliance. Initiatives and programmes are undertaken by the FSSAI and its affiliates - ASCI, the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI), and other government agencies like Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI), Ministry of Consumer Affairs, and Food and Public Distribution to strengthen global and domestic labelling compliance. Recently, the Centre has issued a directive requiring all advertisers and advertising agencies to submit a 'SelfDeclaration Certificate' before publishing or broadcasting any advertisements after directives from the Supreme Court. The same directive needs to be extended to food labels for compliance with claims on food labels. Label submissions should be mandated on Food Safety Compliance System (FoSCoS) for validation of claims, similar to lab test report submissions Public-private partnerships for technology adoption to democratise regulatory labelling software solution Third-party auditing for the food and nutraceutical industry to counter food fraud and ensure consumers’ access to safe food Other than labels, the product packaging design also misleads the consumer many times. What are your thoughts on it?  “Claim” means any representation which is printed, oral, audio or visual and states, suggests, or implies that a food has particular qualities relating to its origin, nutritional properties, nature, processing, composition or otherwise. Claims shall also be consistent with the information on the label of the food or beverage and shall not be deceptive to the consumers. We have seen exaggerated representations defying

NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | July 2024 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in SPEAKING WITH 45 the above definitions. For example: A brand of cashew almond cookies with 0.7% cashew and 0.3% almond in its ingredients has depicted a high amount of whole cashews and almonds on its front of pack primary visual, thus implying the presence of cashews and almonds in a large quantity in the product A brand of instant, flavoured drink mix with 0.9% of orange fruit powder in its ingredients has depicted a large size real orange in its front of pack primary visual, thus implying the presence of real orange in a large quantity in the product A brand of Belgian chocolate milkshake instant, with 0.1% of Belgian chocolate in its ingredients has depicted large pieces of chocolate in its front of pack primary visual, thus implying the presence of the chocolate in a large quantity in the product Brand semiotics and chromatics (that is the science of signs, symbols and colours) is frequently used in packaging design to influence consumer minds. Heavy use of a certain colour can influence the consumer's mind in forming a positive predisposition towards the product. Labels are also experiencing significant technological interventions. Could you tell us about such technological aspects of the label?  AI is revolutionising food labelling with unprecedented possibilities that will change the landscape of food labelling permanently. On the consumer front, AI is enabling: Reading food labels in seconds to bring instant information to consumers Break down complex information into consumable nuggets Correlate and compare micro data points between products for greater understanding Validate information on labels for veracity For businesses AI’s ability to streamline labelling workflow processes from label creation to label validation in half the time than conventional processes Label adaptation for multiple countries Advertising claim validation Use of Generative AI for regulatory compliant claims Workflow processes are expected to cut down time by more than 50 per cent with the use of AI-enabled technologies. What would you suggest to the F&B manufacturers in terms of label practices?  The need is for honest food labelling to strengthen consumer trust. The food labelling ecosystem is witness to a strife that is evident in the loss of consumer trust in food brands. This is aggravated by cases of mislabelling, lack of consumer understanding of food ingredients and regulatory standards, and hyper-emotional interactions carried out by influencers through digital media. For the food labelling ecosystem to be in harmony and for food businesses to strengthen the trust and transparency in their offerings, technology is a key enabler. We would prioritise a few high-impact moves, like; Use of technology to go beyond static labels and their space constraints to engage with consumers through digital labels and share greater information about products Engaging 3rd party labelling audits on neutral platforms that are enabled by AI to bring objectivity to the discussions and interpretations of a food label Use of AI-led labelling workflows to minimise human efforts and errors What are the challenges in terms of Health claim labelling along with the ways out? Let us first understand what is a “health claim,” since the subject is under so much debate and discussion with various interpretations. “Health claim”, as the regulation mentions, means any representation that states, suggests, or implies that a relationship exists between a food or a constituent of that food and health, which includes “nutrient function claim,” “other function claim,” “reduction of disease risk claims” Challenges to health claims are primarily caused by; Misleading claims based on non-scientific and unsubstantiated data Over estimation of product benefits Products presented as magic solutions for consumer ailments Lack of transparency in information-sharing on dosage, and excess consumption Consumers are guided by “health claims” made on food products in the choice of health and wellnessrelated solutions that they are seeking. Responsible food companies must substantiate “health claims” with primary and/or secondary studies from reliable scientific source(s) along with lab report data from a recognised lab to lend credibility to their claims. Use of general information from non-credible sources published on the internet can be seriously detrimental to consumers and the reputation and other business risks to food companies. Further, “health claims” need to be validated by qualified professionals and experts from the field of nutrition science and regulatory affairs. Claims are not copywriting. Mansi Jamsudkar [email protected]

Agritech startups are at the forefront of tackling inefficiencies in the fresh fruit supply chain. These companies employ cutting-edge technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, and data analytics to enhance various aspects of fruit production, distribution, and retail. Their contributions can be broadly categorised into three main areas: precision agriculture, supply chain optimisation, and retail innovations. Precision Agriculture: Growing Smarter Precision agriculture involves using technology to monitor and optimise crop production. Agritech startups are developing solutions to help farmers increase yield and reduce waste through better resource management. Teralytic and CropX are using soil sensors and IoT devices to provide real-time data on soil health, moisture levels, and crop conditions. This data enables farmers to make informed decisions about irrigation, fertilisation, and harvesting, reducing the risk of overproduction and crop loss. AI and Predictive Analytics: Companies such as Prospera and Agrosmart use AI to analyse data from various sources, predicting crop yields and identifying potential issues before they become critical. This proactive approach minimises waste by ensuring optimal harvest times and reducing spoilage. Supply Chain Optimisation: Streamlining Distribution A significant portion of fresh fruit wastage occurs during transportation and storage. Agritech startups are addressing these challenges by optimising the supply chain. Blockchain for Transparency: Startups like Ripe. io and AgriDigital use blockchain technology to create transparent and traceable supply chains. This ensures that fruits are transported and stored under optimal conditions, reducing spoilage and maintaining quality. 46 WASTAGE NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | July 2024 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in How Agritech Startups are Boosting Food Security and Reducing Wastage In bustling markets and supermarkets worldwide, an alarming amount of fresh fruit goes to waste daily. Almost 45 per cent of fruits and vegetables are rendered unfit for consumption even before they reach consumers. This inefficiency in the supply chain not only represents a significant economic loss but also exacerbates food security issues and environmental impact. Agritech startups and innovative companies are leveraging technology to revolutionise the fresh fruit retail sector by reducing wastage and promoting sustainability. Let’s explore further. Ranjith Mukundan, Co-Founder & CEO of Stellapps, says, "At Stellapps, our focus on digitising the agricultural supply chain has transformed the way fresh fruits are tracked and managed. By leveraging IoT and data analytics, we ensure optimal storage conditions and timely transportation, significantly reducing wastage from farm to market." Cold Chain Management companies such as AgroFresh and FreshSurety focus on improving cold chain logistics. By using advanced refrigeration technologies and real-time monitoring systems, these startups ensure that fruits remain fresh from farm to shelf. Logistics optimisation startups like FoodLogiQ and Full Harvest are using data analytics to optimise logistics and reduce transportation time. This results in fresher produce reaching retailers faster, minimising the risk of spoilage. Retail Innovations: Enhancing Consumer Experience At the retail level, agritech startups are introducing solutions to reduce waste and enhance the consumer experience. Smart Packaging: Companies such as Apeel Sciences are developing innovative packaging solutions that extend the shelf life of fruits. Apeel’s plant-based coating, for example, slows down the ripening process, keeping fruits fresh for longer periods. AI-Driven Inventory Management: Startups like Zest Labs use AI to monitor and manage inventory in real time. By predicting demand more accurately and optimising stock levels, retailers can reduce overstocking and minimise waste. Direct-to-Consumer Models: Platforms like Imperfect Foods and Misfits Market sell "imperfect" or surplus fruits directly to consumers at a discount. This not only reduces waste but also makes fresh produce more accessible and affordable. Anu Meena, Ex-Founder of Agrowave, says, "Agrowave's tech-enabled supply chain solutions connect farmers directly with buyers, minimising the

NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | July 2024 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in WASTAGE 47 time fruits spend in transit and reducing spoilage. Our approach ensures that fresh produce reaches consumers quickly and in better condition, cutting down on waste. By leveraging technology, we not only enhance efficiency but also empower farmers with better market access and fair prices, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable and equitable agricultural ecosystem." Aditya Agarwalla, Founder & CEO of Kisan Network, says, "Agritech startups are revolutionising the agricultural landscape by leveraging technology to improve food security and reduce wastage. By providing farmers with better access to markets, realtime data, and efficient supply chain solutions, we can ensure that produce reaches consumers faster and in better condition. This not only minimises post-harvest losses but also enhances the overall productivity and profitability of the agricultural sector. Ultimately, these innovations are crucial for building a more sustainable and resilient food system." Success Stories and Impact The impact of agritech startups on reducing fresh fruit wastage is already evident. For instance, AgroFresh’s SmartFresh technology has been instrumental in extending the shelf life of apples, reducing wastage by up to 70 per cent in some regions. Ripe.io’s blockchain platform has improved traceability and accountability in the supply chain, leading to a significant reduction in spoilage during transit. Imperfect Foods has saved millions of pounds of produce from going to waste by selling cosmetically imperfect fruits directly to consumers. Taranjeet Singh Bhamra, Founder & CEO of AgNext, notes, "AgNext uses advanced imaging and AI to assess the quality of fruits at various stages of the supply chain. This technology helps in sorting and grading produce more accurately, ensuring that only the best quality fruits make it to the market, thereby reducing wastage." Future Outlook The future of agritech in fresh fruit retail looks promising. With ongoing advancements in technology and increasing awareness about food waste and sustainability, agritech startups are poised to make even greater strides. Collaborative efforts between startups, farmers, retailers, and consumers will be crucial in creating a more efficient, sustainable, and resilient food system. Agritech startups are playing a pivotal role in transforming the fresh fruit retail sector. By leveraging innovative technologies and solutions, they are not only reducing wastage but also enhancing sustainability and food security. As these startups continue to innovate and scale, the future of fresh fruit retail promises to be more “ AgNext uses advanced imaging and AI to assess the quality of fruits at various stages of the supply chain. This technology helps in sorting and grading produce more accurately, ensuring that only the best quality fruits make it to the market, thereby reducing wastage." Taranjeet Singh Bhamra, Founder & CEO, AgNext “ Agritech startups are revolutionising the agricultural landscape by leveraging technology to improve food security and reduce wastage. By providing farmers with better access to markets, real-time data, and efficient supply chain solutions, we can ensure that produce reaches consumers faster and in better condition." Aditya Agarwalla, Founder & CEO, Kisan Network “ Our approach ensures that fresh produce reaches consumers quickly and in better condition, cutting down on waste. By leveraging technology, we not only enhance efficiency but also empower farmers with better market access and fair prices, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable and equitable agricultural ecosystem." Anu Meena, Ex-Founder, Agrowave “ Our focus on digitising the agricultural supply chain has transformed the way fresh fruits are tracked and managed. By leveraging IoT and data analytics, we ensure optimal storage conditions and timely transportation, significantly reducing wastage from farm to market." Ranjith Mukundan, Co-Founder & CEO, Stellapps efficient, sustainable, and consumer-friendly. Abhitash Singh [email protected]

Arya Pise, Consultant- Agri, Food & Nutrition, Frost & Sullivan Ensuring Food Safety in the Supply Chain India experiences an estimated 100 million cases of foodborne infections annually. These infections result in the loss of 8 million years of healthy life due to disability and 120,000 deaths each year. Foodborne infections pose a substantial burden and challenge to public health. With the increasing emphasis on food safety and quality, effective food supply chain management is essential to ensure that safe and high-quality food reaches consumers' tables. 48 FOOD SAFETY NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | July 2024 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in F ood is necessary for existence, yet eating food that is contaminated can cause illness or even death. Food safety throughout the supply chain and inadequate safety inspections are two major factors affecting people’s health. Individuals' chances of survival, well-being, means of subsistence, and productivity are all affected, which ultimately affects society as a whole. Globally, foodborne infections pose a substantial burden and challenge to public health. According to the Indian Journal of Public Health and the Food Industry Capacity & Skills Initiative (FICSI), India experiences an estimated 100 million cases of foodborne infections annually. These infections result in the loss of 8 million years of healthy life due to disability and 120,000 deaths each year. The Indian food industry is complex, involving numerous steps from farm to fork. With the increasing emphasis on food safety and quality, effective food supply chain management is essential to ensure that safe and high-quality food reaches consumers' tables. Key stages in the food supply chain where food safety & quality must be maintained include – Production Handling & Storage Processing Packaging Distribution Retail & Food Services Consumption Some of the critical aspects of food supply chain management that affect the quality & supply of food are supplier selection, manufacturing practices, storage practices, implementation of quality control measures, managing product shelf life, traceability, and risk management. One of the most important parts of the food service sector is ensuring food safety, especially throughout the supply chain. There are several steps in the food service supply chain, from sourcing raw materials to manufacturing the finished product. Prioritising food safety has become essential for food service organisations due to strict laws and rising consumer awareness. When food safety is neglected, many diseases are associated with food supply chain management. Companies ensuring food safety throughout their supply chain have an upper edge over the competitors. Protecting consumer health is of utmost importance for these companies. Compliance with national and

NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | July 2024 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in FOOD SAFETY 49 international regulations is a legal obligation and an ethical responsibility for the food manufacturers. Companies that adhere to strict standards and regulations reduce the risk of product recalls, fines, and reputational damages. By prioritising food safety throughout the supply chain, companies can show their commitment to gaining the trust of consumers and regulatory bodies alike along with meeting industry standards. Further, integrating food safety protocols into the supply chain can enhance operational efficiency. Adopting strict quality control procedures lessens the possibility of contaminated products disrupting the supply chain and helps prevent waste. Preventive measures and quality assurance procedures can help businesses maximise productivity, reduce losses, and guarantee a seamless supply chain. Disregarding food safety can result in significant costs for businesses. Litigation involving product recalls and reputational harm can result in large financial losses. Companies that invest in preventative food safety measures may lower the likelihood of these occurrences and save a significant amount of money. These savings also cover costs related to litigation, settlements, and brand restoration. In India, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) was established under Food Safety and Standards, 2006, to guarantee the availability of healthy and safe food for human consumption, to establish science-based standards for food articles, and to regulate their manufacturing, storage, distribution, sale, and import. Until this law was passed, some of the Acts that were being followed to manage food security in the country were the Vegetable Oil Products (Control) Order, 1947; Prevention of Food Adulteration Act, 1954; Fruit Products Order, 1955; Meat Food Products Order, 1973 and so on. A couple more Acts were put into effect as well. However, the FSS Act, which was enacted by the government in 2006, incorporated all of the provisions and guidelines outlined in the aforementioned Acts. FSSAI has certain online platforms such as the Food Safety Compliance System, Food Import Clearance System, Indian Food Laboratories Network, Food Safety Training and Certifications, Serve Safe, Eat Right India, and so on. Apart from this, FSSAI also has stringent laws when it comes to labelling and health claims on packaged foods. FSSAI mandates the following things on packaged food labels:- Name of the product List of Ingredients with ingoing % Nutritional information Date of Manufacturing Date of expiry or best before Vegetarian/Non-vegetarian logo Declaration for food additives Company name & logo FSSAI logo & licence no If imported, then import, country of origin and manufacturer. Instructions for use Declaration regarding food allergens A packaged food manufacturer must print all these components on the food labels. This ensures that the end consumers are aware of all the ingredients used in the manufacturing of the food products and safeguards the consumers from possible food hazards or diseases. Another common feature seen on labels of packaged food products is the variety of health claims and statements. These claims inform customers about the unique nutritional or health benefits of the food and assist them in choosing the best option. Health claims help manufacturers by giving their products a positive reputation and boosting sales. The FSSAI must approve any claims that are not on its list or that address disease risk reduction; otherwise, a penalty of about Rs 10 lakh per misleading claim may be compounded up to Rs 25 lakh. Therefore, seeking advertisement claim clearance is advised to protect businesses and goods from these fines. Misleading communications, such as advertisements and claims, have to be dealt with more stringent laws and rules. Private sector companies are also ensuring food safety throughout the supply chain. Companies such as Intello Labs use the sharpness of AI and precision of computer vision to make the quality of produce better and the process faster. It offers complete automation in supply chain management of fresh fruits, vegetables, spices, and nuts. Another company whose solutions are driven by AI, is Qzense Labs which allows for precise inventory control and grading of fresh products (fruits, meat, and shellfish). With the world's largest population and thereby consumers, every stakeholder in the Indian food supply chain has to be equally responsible for ensuring food safety throughout the supply chain. Merely following the westernisation or globalisation trends can lead to disastrous outcomes in a country with this huge population.

Komal Chauhan, Professor, Department of Food Science and Technology, National Institute of Food Technology Entrepreneurship and Management, Kundli, Sonipat, Haryana Future Perspectives of Mushroom Preservation 50 PRESERVATION NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | July 2024 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in Mushrooms have evolved into a vital component of human diets, serving both culinary and medicinal purposes for centuries. Their allure stems from their appealing taste, aroma, and rich nutritional profile, boasting high-quality proteins, vitamins, minerals, unsaturated fatty acids, and dietary fibres, all packed into a low-calorie package. In recent times, global Edible mushrooms have become increasingly sought-after globally, necessitating effective preservation methods to mitigate quality loss and extend post-harvest stability. This review aims to analyse the development and innovative trends in preservation technologies. This article outlines the impact of chemical processing (such as washing, electrolysed water, ozone, and coatings), physical treatments (including nonthermal plasma, packaging, and latent thermal storage), and emerging applications (pulsed electric field and ultrasound) on fresh mushroom quality while assessing their efficacy in prolonging shelf-life. Optimisation of preservation technologies and dynamic quality assessment are crucial for ensuring mushroom quality control. Additionally, it exhibits the application of artificial intelligence and big data analytics as emerging evaluation techniques to simulate mushroom behaviour during storage for predicting shelf life. Let's delve into how the shelf life of mushrooms without reducing its quality can be achieved, while enhancing the efficiency of storage and transportation operations.