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Scan the QR Code Scan the QR Code Scan the QR Code Scan the QR Code Australia uses mushrooms for developing sustainable solution to plastics Korea announces doubling of annual rice aid for WFP’s life-saving operations Singapore develops plant-based cell culture scaffold for cheaper, sustainable cultured meat Thailand to innovate and enhance wellbeing with new nutrition drink 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 Off set, 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 10 | Issue 10 | June 2023 www.nuff oodsspectrum.in Publisher & Managing Editor Ravindra Boratkar Editorial Chief Editor Dr Milind Kokje [email protected] Advisor - Content Vijay Thombre Editor: Narayan Kulkarni [email protected] Executive Editor: Dr Manbeena Chawla [email protected] Assistant Editor - Nitesh Pillai, [email protected] Assistant Editor ( Digital) - Sanjiv Das, [email protected] Content Team Singapore: Hithaishi C. Bhaskar [email protected] SOUTH REGION Apoorva Mahajan Key Account Executive “NITON”, Block B, First Floor, 11/3, Palace Road, Bangalore 560052 Mobile: +91-7724025888 [email protected] NEW DELHI International offi ces Dr Manbeena Chawla Media Coordinator 103-104, 1st Floor, Rohit House 3 Tolstoy Marg, New Delhi - 110001 Mobile: +91-8861043732 [email protected] PUNE Vipan Kumar Relationship Executive - Media Ashirwad, 36/A/2, S.No. 270, Pallod Farms, Baner Road, Pune-411045 Mobile: +91-98347 45564 [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 1st Floor, CIDCO Convention Center, Sector 30A, Vashi, Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra-400703. Mobile: +919870009281 [email protected] ASIA PACIFIC AND SOUTH EAST ASIAAnkit Kankar DY. General Manager - Digital Strategy & Programmes #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: +91-9579069369 E-mail: [email protected] MM Activ Sci-Tech Communications Social Media Communications: Poonam Bhosale [email protected] Production & Design MEDIA VISION, Pune Cover Design Dominix Strategic Design Pvt. Ltd. Business CFO & Special Correspondent Manasee Kurlekar [email protected] Dy. General Manager Digital Intell & Growth Ankit Kankar [email protected] Operations and HR 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, Milk, loaded with wholesomeness of nutrition, is consumed daily in almost every household. In the last few years, the number of processed milk products, as well as new brands, has soared. That, in turn, has increased the consumption of processed milk products across the country. No wonder India’s total milk consumption has reached 203.49 million tonne and it has been continuously growing for the last few years. It was 17 million tonne in 1951, 54 million tonne in 1991 and 81 million tonne in 2001. Today we are the largest producer of milk in the world, contributing 23 per cent of global milk production. Growing production and transportation also come with their own problems like wastage and more than that, adulteration. Our content team has focussed on the issue of the growth of the dairy sector as well as the problem of adulteration. However, we have not only focused on the problem but also discussed solutions like portable and easy to use kits to detect adulteration easily by consumers. Hygienic food streets is a novel concept that is shaping up and it is very important in our country where a large number of people consume various types of street foods and beverages, some by choice and liking while some others by compulsion caused by price. While doing away with street food is impossible the only alternative is to ensure that the street food vendors observe certain norms for cleanliness, hygiene and safe food. A concept like hygienic food street will help in reaching that goal. The health ministry has proposed to develop 100 such hygienic food streets in 100 districts nationwide. The ministry feels that such a concept will improve the hygiene credibility of local food businesses. The honey market in India has achieved a signifi cant milestone, reaching Rs 23.3 billion in 2022. Looking ahead, the market is projected to expand further and reach Rs 38.8 billion by 2028, showcasing a notable growth rate of 8.4 per cent during 2023-28. An insightful interview sheds light on the honey business and export avenues. Besides, we have an in-depth special report on the potential of animal-free dairy and its market penetration in India. The popularity of plant-based milks is experiencing encouraging growth in the country. Plant-based dairy is projected to develop at a CAGR of 20.7 per cent, reaching $63.9 million by 2024, compared to the estimated $140 billion market size of animal-derived dairy. Surely this complete 'Thali of sumptuous content' will become a delectable read. Thanks & Regards, Yours Sincerely, Ravindra Boratkar Publisher & Managing Editor NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | June 2023 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in 5
How Technology is Impacting DAIRY INDUSTRY The Indian dairy sector has been going great guns since Verghese Kurien unleashed the White Revolution in India. There's been no looking back, despite numerous challenges by way of fodder shortage, milk adulteration, cattle diseases and shifts in dietary habits of a major section of the urban population over the years. Milk from the dairy (not plantbased faux milk), continues to be a part of Indian breakfast tables. The dairy market in India hit the Rs 1,489,980 crore mark in 2022. As per market research fi rm IMARC Group, the market is expected to reach Rs 3,118,570 crore by 2028, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 13.2 per cent during 2023-28. Yet, there still remain challenges that ought to be addressed. Let's examine the dairy sector's present and future outlook in terms of innovations in new technologies, governmental policies, and more. INSIDE 6 NUFFOODSSPECTRUM | March 2020 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in INSIDE NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | June 2023 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in COVER STORY 24
INSIDE NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | June 2023 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in 7 Editorial 09 Regulatory News 10 Start-Up News 11 Finance News 18 Company News 20 World News 22 R & D News 43 People News 44 Ingredients News 46 Supplier News 48 Let’s Talk Food 50 REGULARS 37 39 30 41 34 “The Ayush department has been playing a vital role in promoting the herbal industry” “Government and private sector can come together to make nutrition a top priority” The long road ahead for animal-free milk in India Telangana receives Rs 7218 Cr investments in agri-food industry Can The Clean Street Food Hub Initiative transform India’s street food culture? Speaking with Plant-based milk Event Report Street food Anjenay Agarwal, Founder and Director, Royal Bee Natural Products Amarpreet Singh Anand, Founder and CEO, Superfoods Valley The Food Conclave 2023 g Suppl Let’s T
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 Thank you nuFFOODS Spectrum for the write up on food testing laboratories in the cover story. Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has been supporting labs through their recognition, based on integrated assessment along with National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL). Dr Saurabh Arora, New Delhi FSSAI and FDA have been proactively supporting and strengthening the referral and other state labs in India for equipment, manpower and training. Thank you nuFFOODS Spectrum for the feature on food testing labs. Dr Komal Chauhan, Sonepat Thank you so much for the coverage on Meatzza, a frozen food company specialising in meat-based products. Shubhangi Kanak, Mumbai NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | June 2023 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in
EDIT 9 T he Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has identifi ed 32 new cases of misleading advertisements or exaggerated claims, taking the number of such cases recorded in the last six months to 170. These cases, prima facie, were in contravention of Food Safety and Standards (Advertisements & Claims) Regulations, 2018. The regulation prohibits deceptive claims or advertisements and its violation can be a punishable off ence. These 32 cases pertain to health supplements, organic products, fast moving consumer goods (FMCG) products, staples, among others. Some of them have made exaggerated claims, in contravention of the aforesaid regulation. The respective food business operators (FBO), allegedly making false or exaggerated claims, will have to, either substantiate the claim or withdraw it or modify it, as the case may be. A fi ne up to Rs 10 lakh can also be imposed on the FBO and even the licence can be suspended or cancelled, if the off ence is repeated. The cases have now been referred to the concerned licensing authorities to issue notices to prove the claim or withdraw/ modify the claim. The food regulator has asked FBOs to desist from making any 'unscientifi c and/or exaggerated claims and advertisements' to promote their product. Such an advertising technique of using exaggerated adjectives is known as ‘puffi ng’ in media circles. Puffi ng may be misleading or in some cases not misleading. Globally, if puffi ng is harmless and does not deceive the consumer then it is not prohibited. But there is a fi ne line between thin and tricky. Some FBOs make health claims using 99.9 per cent technique as an escape route over claims, where it is claimed that a benefi t is observed in 99 or 99.9 per cent people. Some others may deceptively use words and mislead the consumers. If there's any legal issue, the FBOs can claim that the inferred meaning of the word used is harmless. Hence, the food regulator has to carefully watch the ads to catch the exaggeration or deception that could be wrong and/or harmful. In case of a health benefi t claim attributed to the product, the FBOs have to base it on statistically signifi cant results from well-designed peer-reviewed human intervention studies, conducted by established research institutions with good clinical practices. In addition to the food regulator, other government agencies are also active in protecting consumers. Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) of the government had issued guidelines for Prevention of Misleading Advertisements and Endorsements for Misleading Advertisements, in June 2022, to ensure that consumers are not taken for a ride with unsubstantiated claims, exaggerated promises, false claims and misinformation. The guidelines clarify that an advertisement shall be considered to be valid and not misleading, if it contains truthful and honest representation. This problem, though, is not restricted to our country. In many other countries the respective advertisement monitoring authorities are identifying ads with wrong or exaggerated claims. Recently, the advertising standards authority of the UK, the country’s largest supermarket chain failed to show that its two plant-based products were more environment friendly than their meat equivalents. The authority stopped its advertisements making such claims. A Dutch environment advocacy group, Changing Markets Foundation, found that greenwashing – communication and marketing strategy putting forward ecological arguments to forge an ecologically responsible image – is rampant in the food sector. It found 53 examples of misleading claims in a year in the Netherlands. The European Commission is planning to publish new measures to take action against greenwashing. In India, the problem is more so with regard to exaggerated health claims. The food regulator has drafted strict regulations to put a stop to such claims. However, it should be enforced eff ectively. With more and more cases being identifi ed by the advertising monitoring committee, it appears that adequate steps are being taken. The companies indulging in misleading ads need to remember that Fairfox Cone, former director of the American Association of Advertising Agencies, had once said, “A desirable advertisement will be imaginative, but never misleading.” Dr Milind Kokje Chief Editor Reining In Lofty Claims NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | June 2023 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in
10 COMPANY NEWS NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | April 2021 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in REGULATORY NEWS Govt asks edible oil industry to lower prices amidst global price drop In a signifi cant move during the International Year of Millets-2023, the Ministry of Home Aff airs, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has announced the inclusion of millets in the meals of personnel from the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF). Following detailed discussions with all the forces and the clarion call of the Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Amit Shah, the decision has been made to incorporate 30 per cent millets in the meals of the armed forces. The Ministry of Home Aff airs had asked all the forces to take action for the introduction of millets based menu. The forces have shown great enthusiasm and have pledged to introduce millets into their regular meals. Millets will also be prominently featured in various functions and events organised by the CAPFs and NDRF. To facilitate access to millets, dedicated counters/corners will be set up in Kendriya Police Kalyan Bhandar, grocery shops within the campuses and ration stores. The forces will also organise training programmes for their cooks conducted by reputed institutes specialising in millet based dishes. To generate awareness among the troops and their families about the benefi ts of millets, the services of dieticians and expert agencies will be utilised. Ministry of Home Aff airs introduces millets in meals for armed forces Anita Praveen, Secretary of the Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI), chaired the inaugural inter-ministerial committee meeting in New Delhi, joined by senior representatives from various Ministries, Departments, and Boards. The meeting aimed to update offi cials on the progress made for World Food India 2023 and discuss the participation of respective Ministries, Departments, and Organisations in the event. This meeting was part of a series of interactions held to inform offi cials about the Ministry’s action plan for the upcoming World Food India 2023 and explore opportunities for collaboration. Senior offi cials from key central government ministries and departments actively participated in the roundtable discussion. During her address, Secretary Anita Praveen requested offi cials to provide specifi c action plans regarding their participation and partnership in the Mega Food Event scheduled to take place from November 3- 5, 2023 in New Delhi. All central ministries and departments were encouraged to share suggestions for the planned sessions of World Food India, actively participate in the event and support the ministry in creating awareness through their respective department’s social media platforms. The involvement of senior policy makers, industry members, self-help groups (SHGs) and other relevant stakeholders was also emphasised to ensure the success of the event. MoFPI holds fi rst inter-ministerial committee meeting for World Food India 2023 The Indian government has called upon the edible oil industry to swiftly pass on the decline in global prices to consumers. Sanjeev Chopra, Secretary of the Department of Food and Public Distribution, emphasised the need for expeditious reduction in retail prices of cooking oils during a recent meeting with industry representatives. Representatives from the Solvent Extraction Association of India (SEAI) and the Indian Vegetable Oil Producers’ Association (IVPA) were present at the meeting to discuss the downward trend in international prices and the potential for reducing retail prices in India. Although global prices of various edible oils have decreased by $200-250 per tonne in the past two months, the industry explained that it takes time for these to refl ect in the retail market. However, they assured that retail prices are expected to decline in the near future. NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | June 2023 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in
STARTUPS NEWS 11 Sunil Shetty backs Waayu, food delivery app as investor and brand ambassador Mumbai-based startup Gynoveda is making signifi cant strides in supporting women facing infertility challenges. Its Ayurvedic supplement, acknowledged by the European Journal of Pharmaceutical and Medical Research, has shown eff ectiveness in promoting timely ovulation. It is a valuable aid in managing infertility associated with gynaecological disorders like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and irregular periods. The study, conducted at the Dhanwanthari Ayurveda Centre in Pallakad, Kerala, involved 149 participants across India within the age group of 25 to 35 years. The study revealed that 85.23 per cent of women achieved timely ovulation after consuming Gynoveda’s Ayurvedic supplement within a span of three months). Notably, no adverse drug reactions were observed, providing women with a safe approach to experience the joys of motherhood. Gynoveda’s ayurvedic formulation combines ingredients like Shivlingi, Putraveevak, Aloe vera and 15+ other herbs. These components have undergone extensive study for their positive eff ects on ovulation and menstruation. By stimulating the ovaries to induce ovulation, reducing infl ammation, strengthening the uterus, and regulating menstrual fl ow, these ingredients collectively contribute to managing infertility and related conditions such as PCOS. Bengaluru-based startup Bhookha Haathi Hospitality Limited is making waves with its caff eine-free coff ee alternatives, showcased under the brand name Alt Health. Recognising the need to reduce dependence on coff ee and its stimulating eff ects, health brand Bhookha Haathi has introduced Alt Health as a food-focused health label, dedicated to developing a range of chickpea-powered coff ee substitutes. With plans to enter the US market in the near future, Alt Health aims to assist Americans in breaking free from their caff eine dependencies without compromising the energy levels and productivity. Alt Health’s innovative Chickpea Coff ee line replaces traditional coff ee beans with fi bre-rich and nutrient-dense chickpeas, utilising a proprietary method. Despite being caff eine-free, this superfood alternative contains essential carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats, delivering a sustained and robust energy boost that surpasses the fl eeting eff ects of caff eine. Alt Health’s chickpeas are organically sourced, 100 per cent natural, suitable for vegans, and packed with antioxidants. According to the National Coff ee Association USA, a staggering 62 per cent of Americans consume coff ee on a daily basis. Statista adds that nearly 80 per cent of US coff ee drinkers have more than one cup of coff ee per day, particularly when at home. However, excessive caff eine consumption can lead to feelings of anxiety, restlessness, increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, digestive issues, and even sleep disturbances. Bhookha Haathi launches Alt Health, caff einefree coff ees Mumbai-based food delivery app Waayu, founded by Anirudh Kotgire and Mandar Lande in 2022, has gained a signifi cant boost with actor Sunil Shetty joining as the brand ambassador and investor. The India Hotel and Restaurant Association (AHAR) in Mumbai is also supporting the venture. The core objective of this innovative platform is to disrupt the dominance of food delivery apps such as Swiggy and Zomato and liberate restaurants from the exorbitant commissions charged by these platforms. With over 25,000 downloads, Waayu claims to have successfully onboarded 1,500 restaurants based in Mumbai onto its app. Similar to Swiggy and Zomato, Waayu operates as a food delivery app that facilitates online restaurant orders. Gynoveda’s ayurvedic supplement alleviates female infertility NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | June 2023 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in
The uniqueness of inulin and oligofructose from the chicory root Why their scientific uniqueness translates into an improved diet for the consumer FACT SHEET At a glance: 12 reasons why! SCIENCE IS THE BASIS 1. Proven prebiotics for gut microbiota and health support 2. Proven dietary fibres 3. Unique knowledge database due to 25y+ research, numerous human intervention trials & systematic reviews with meta-analysis 4. Strong substantiation as basis for claims 5. Basis for emerging science and innovation FOOD INDUSTRY: PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT ACCELERATION 6. Sound science supports/speeds up product development and reduces risk of failures 7. The “1+1=3” benefit – prebiotic & dietary fibre at the same time 8. Excellent taste & texture, broad choice of product categories 9. Label attractiveness for the ingredient list and claims CONSUMER & HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONALS 10. Consumer research shows: chicory root fibres meet market needs and consumer demands 11. Education of health professionals on the science-basis of chicory root fibres by BENEO-Institute 12. Plant-based and natural
What makes chicory root fibres unique? The science explained. The gut microbiota plays a crucial role in human health and influences the person the microorganisms live in, their human host. Diet strongly influences the health of that person. Particularly the undigested part of the diet influences the gut microbiota significantly, as this may be used to nourish microorganisms. Some dietary components, e. g. chicory root fibres, are the preferred nutrient for beneficial microorganisms like Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus strains which are associated with favourable health effects. Thanks to the prebiotics in a person’s chosen diet, the share of benefical organisms in the gut microbiota increases. (see figure 1) A balanced microbiota supports the human host in three ways: by metabolic functions, structural functions and pro tective functions. 1 This influences health as well as disease. Supporting beneficial bacteria by prebiotics in the diet improves health. It also helps preventing or delaying the onset of diseases. Imbalances in the gut microbiota composition (i. e. dysbiosis) correlate to a number of diseases. Looking into the future, based on emerging science, prebiotics may even support the treatment of some diseases by a therapeutic diet accompanying medical treatment under the supervision of medical doctors and dietitians. (see figure 2) SCIENCE IS THE BASIS Figure 1. Diet can strongly influence the microbiome with prebiotics as an example for natural diet intervention. Gut microbiome modulation Diet Gut microbiome modulation: Bifidobacterium & Lactobacillus strain increase Prebiotics in foods and drinks NATURAL DIET INTERVENTION Undigested parts of the diet reach the colon and modulate the gut micro biota Prebiotic chicory root fibre intake in the diet increases the number of beneficial bacteria associated with health benefits to the host Figure 2. Functions of the gut microbiota relevant for the human host, interactions and impact on health and disease.1 DIET HOST GUT MICROBIOTA Interactions Structural functions e. g. including im mune system development, epithelial barrier enhancement Metabolic functions e. g. SCFA production immune priming e. g. pathogen displacement, Protective functions Therapeutic and prevention functions in disease context Health support
• Inulin and oligofructose are scientifically proven prebiotics. - Selective growth of beneficial micro biota and health support for the individual: Inulin and oligofructose promote naturally occurring beneficial gut bacteria and encourage their growth selectively, resulting in various health benefits. They support a balanced microbiota and thus dysbiosis is avoided. • An internationally accepted scientific prebiotic definition exists and is kept up to date by the international scientific community of experts in this field (ISAPP).3 There are only three ingredients in total that comply with the scientific requirements of that definition. ISAPP and the Chinese Nutrition Society, independently, came to that conclusion.4,5 • Unique knowledge database: - The prebiotic concept was first published in 1995. Research related to this was done with chicory root fibres. After more than 25 years of scientific research on the prebiotics inulin and oligofructose, a unique database of knowledge has been established. - Intense research related to the gut microbiome over the past 10 years and its importance for human health adds to the prebiotic knowledge database. - A combination of both research directions – the role of the beneficial bacteria in the gut and how to nourish them in order to increase their share of the total bacteria – contributes to the large, unique scientific basis for chicory root fibres. Functions and effects are substantiated. New innovative research is emerging. • Highest level of robust scientific evidence: the wealth of scientific data that includes numerous randomised controlled trials (RCTs), allowing for systematic reviews and meta-analysis, is unique. (see figure 3) Figure 3. Highest level of scientific evidence confirms chicory root fibres as prebiotics.2 Systematic reviews with meta-analyses Strongest available evidence level Randomised controlled trials (RCT) Case studies & anecdotes Observational research Animal & cell studies Nagy et al. 2022 50 RCTs CHICORY ROOT FIBRES • Significantly increase bifidobacteria selectively (from 3 g/d onwards) • Significantly improve bowel function • Chicory root fibres are proven prebiotics Strongest available science confirms: Chicory root fibres are proven prebiotics
How prebiotic chicory root fibres support product developments in the B2B environment • Sound science supports and speeds-up product development and increases the chance of a successful product launch: - The scientific situation, as highlighted above, gives decision makers confidence when ingredient choices in product development are made. Sound science opens the door for substantiated claims in the context of national food law. - The technological and sensorial properties of inulin and oligofructose enable innovative product development in a broad range of product applications in all markets. • The “1+1=3” Benefit: Inulin and oligofructose are dietary fibres and prebiotics at the same time. This creates various synergies for consumer health, making these ingredients attractive for the development of products intended to support health and attract the interest of health professionals who give advice on healthy eating. - The prebiotic aspect: Trust in science: Inulin and oligofructose are scientifically proven prebiotics. Plant-based prebiotics, naturally occurring: Inulin and oligofructose are the only plant-based proven prebiotics. They are gained from the chicory root by hot water extraction. Successful product development with proven prebiotics: In total, only three ingredients have the necessary science, based on human intervention studies, to be defined as proven prebiotics. Inulin and oligofructose are two of these. - The dietary fibre aspect: Global public health concern: Consumers do not eat enough dietary fibre! Inulin and oligofructose help bridge the fibre gap. Closing the fibre gap by fibre enrichment: The majority of consumers worldwide eat significantly less fibre than recommended. The inulin and oligofructose enrichment of consumer products helps to close the fibre gap whilst improving the nutritional characteristics of the products at the same time. In addition: excellent taste and textural properties, whilst helping to replace sugar and/or fat and therefore further improving the physiological and nutritional properties of consumer products. - Label attractiveness: Inulin and oligofructose are chicory root fibres. This expresses both their nutrient category and their natural plant-based origin. - Naturalness and plant-based – mankind has always eaten inulin, that also includes oligofructose, as it is found in vegetables and fruits. Chicory root fibre is extracted from the chicory root by hot water. Neither chemical modification nor GMO-plants are used. Overall, this demonstrates that “1+1=3” applies when prebiotic chicory root fibres are used in consumer products. FOOD INDUSTRY: PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT ACCELERATION
References 1. Bassaganya-Riera, J. et al (2020): Goals in Nutrition Science 2020-2025. In: Frontiers in nutrition 7, S. 606378. DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2020.606378. 2. Nagy et al. (2022) Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr:1–18. https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/pdf/10.1080/10408398.2022.2098246?needAccess=true 3. ISAPP – International Scientific Association for Probiotics and Prebiotics (isappscience.org) 4. Gibson et al (2017): Expert consensus document: The International Scientific Association for Probiotics and Prebiotics (ISAPP) consensus statement on the definition and scope of prebiotics. In: Nature reviews. Gastroenterology & hepatology 14 (8), S. 491–502. DOI: 10.1038/nrgastro.2017.75. 5. Chinese Nutrition Society, Chinese Nutrition Society (2021) Summary of “Expert Consensus on Prebiotics and Health of the Chinese Nutrition Society” վ╈㎁蛈⪳㰢⚡沟榟⩕┙⢸䉓┥㳃⪦陃տ哭釐. https://www.cnsoc.org/ysjysynews/452120205.html 6. Health Focus International, Global trends study 2022 7. Health Focus International, Global Gut Health Report 2022 PREBIOTICS ARE SUPERFOODS! The unique chicory root fibres inulin, oligofructose and combinations thereof are trusted prebiotics. They provide … … a chance to improve people’s health and well-being … the strongest scientific database established in 25+ years of research … the ideal basis for product developments aiming for enrichment with dietary fibres and prebiotics! P R E BIO TIC food support health SUPERFOOD fibre grow MICROBIOTA chicory root PROVEN lin k G O O D CONSUMER & HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONALS 75% 50% 60% Chicory root fibres meet the needs of consumers and health care professionals • Dietitians: With chicory root fibres, dietitians, nutritionists and medical doctors have a powerful tool to influence the gut microbiome favourably and therefore the health of their clients too. Emerging science indicates even more options to help consumers in the future. • Consumers around the world … 1 in 2 choose foods to improve digestion7 3 in 4 think “maintaining a balanced diet” is important for their health6 3 in 5 are interested in prebiotics 7
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18 NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | June 2023 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in FINANCE NEWS Telangana’s inaugural Food Conclave 2023, organised by the state government, has secured investment commitments totalling Rs 7,218 crore, leading to the creation of 58,458 direct job opportunities in the agrifood industry. Key investments include Patanjali Foods and Telangana State Co-operative Oilseeds Growers’ Federation allocating Rs 1,050 crore each for palm oil processing facilities. Additionally, Varun Beverages and Four Zero LLP will invest Rs 829 crore in a beverage manufacturing unit, while Jurala Organic Farms & Agro Industries have signed an agreement to set up an ethanol plant with an investment of Rs 550 crore. Other notable investments include Modi Naturals’ Rs 325 crore for a distillery for ethanol and solvent extraction of rice bran oil, along with a refi nery to process the oil. Masqati Dairy Products and Heritage Foods also plan to set up processing plants with investments of Rs 242 crore and Rs 150 crore, respectively. Pluckk, a digital lifestyle-oriented fresh food brand in the fruit and vegetable (F&V) sector, has recently completed the acquisition of KOOK, a food tech startup renowned for its do-it-yourself (DIY) tableware. The deal, valued at $1.3 million, enables Pluckk to enter the rapidly growing meal box market and unlock new opportunities for growth. With KOOK’s strong presence in Delhi and Mumbai and its ability to cater to diverse dietary preferences and culinary skills, the acquisition aligns with Pluckk’s mission to provide convenient and healthy meal options to its expanding customer base. By integrating KOOK’s range of DIY meal containers with Pluckk’s digital lifestyle-oriented brand, the partnership aims to enhance the availability of wholesome and chemical-free food choices. Pluckk’s ozone wash and traceability programmes ensure the safety and quality of its farm-to-fork product line. Currently serving over 500 farmers in Mumbai and Bengaluru, Pluckk plans to extend its reach to 1,000 farmers within the next six months. Pluckk picks up KOOK in $1.3M deal to expand meal kit offering Telangana attracts Rs 7,218 Cr investments during Food Conclave 2023 Boundless Brands raises $2.5M to expand digital-fi rst beverage platform Boundless Brands, a digital-fi rst beverages brand and e-commerce platform for the food and beverage (F&B) industry, has successfully secured $2.5 million in a seed round from prominent angel investors in the USA and India. The startup’s ambitious plans include onboarding over 1,000 F&B third-party brands within the next two years onto its comprehensive e-commerce platform and services. It also plans to launch a diverse range of beverage drinks in the summer of 2023, distributing them through its own e-commerce site and app, as well as leveraging quick commerce, marketplaces and modern retail channels Boundless Brands specialises in providing end-to-end e-commerce solutions for F&B brands, encompassing technology, catalogue management, digital marketing, payment processing, fulfi lment and customer support. The Gurugram-based startup aims to launch dozens of beverage products this summer to tap the underserved beverages market for millennials and Gen Z in India, who collectively represent over 50 per cent of the substantial $100 billion F&B market.
NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | June 2023 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in FINANCE NEWS 19 Mumbai-based startup Alpha Coach has experienced rapid growth since its launch in 2021, with its free nutrition app Evolve and the newly introduced Alpha Coach Club gaining traction. With a revenue increase of 10x in FY2023, Alpha Coach aims to achieve Rs 10 crore in revenue for the current fi nancial year. To support its ongoing expansion plans, Alpha Coach is seeking to raise $5 million in its upcoming funding round. Currently operating in India, the company has ambitions to enter the North American market in the near future. The free nutrition app provides personalised diet guidance and has garnered over 300,000 users worldwide since its launch in August 2022. In January 2023, Alpha Coach expanded its off erings by introducing a fi tness marketplace that assists coaches in launching their online fi tness programmes in an organised manner, providing tools for website creation, pricing customisation, and brand development. Alpha Coach diff erentiates itself as a consumer fi tness brand that leverages artifi cial intelligence (AI) to deliver personalised nutrition coaching and access to top coaches in both India and North America. Sugar Watchers, a health food brand based in Gurugram that focuses on tackling diabetes, has raised Rs 3.6 crore in a recent funding round. The funding was led by ah! Ventures Angel Platform, along with participation from Chennai Angels, Mumbai Angels, Keiretsu Forum, Chandigarh Angels and Sanjiv Rangrass (former member of the ITC board and ex-head of ITC Agro division). With over 60,000 satisfi ed customers served, the startup aims to expand its reach and distribution with the support of this investment. The startup intends to utilise the capital to enhance its distribution and marketing eff orts, expanding its presence in the Indian market and boosting exports to the USA, UAE, Singapore, GCC and Israel. Sugar Watchers specialises in the development of patent-backed and clinically tested Low GI (Glycemic Index) foods that are 100 per cent natural and taste similar to their regular counterparts. Their product range includes staples such as rice and atta, as well as millet-based instant mixes, noodles, pasta and snacks. Low GI foods have been clinically proven to reduce HbA1c levels and improve insulin resistance, making them benefi cial for managing diabetes, Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and weight. While the medical community has long recognised this fact, the lack of available low GI alternatives in the market has hindered doctors and dieticians from actively prescribing them to their patients. TagZ, India’s pioneering popped chips maker and premium GenZ snack brand, has raised $2 million in funding during a Pre-Series A round, led by 9 Unicorns: Dexter Angels, Agility Ventures, Venture Catalysts, Klub, Indifi and Rannvijay Singha. Before this funding round, TagZ had previously raised a total of $1.2 million in seed funding from a group of angel investors in 2020. The company also received undisclosed funding from Namita Thapar and Ashneer Grover after their participation in the show Shark Tank India’s fi rst season. Based in Bengaluru, TagZ plans to utilise the funds to accelerate its growth, enter new markets, expand manufacturing capacity, enhance operational capabilities, and introduce new products. The investment will also be allocated towards strengthening the company’s technology platform, improving its logistics network, and boosting marketing and brand awareness initiatives. The startup leverages food technology to create potato chips that claim to be free from cholesterol, trans fat, artifi cial colours, and preservatives. TagZ Foods raises $2M in pre-Series A round to expand snacks biz Sugar Watchers raises Rs 3.6 Cr to enhance distribution & marketing Fitness marketplace Alpha Coach seeks $5M for expansion
20 COMPANY NEWS NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | June 2023 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in The Gujarat Co-operative Milk Marketing Federation Limited (GCMMF) also known as Amul, has established a state-of-the-art Advanced Organic Testing Laboratory at Amul Fed Dairy in Gandhinagar. The lab was inaugurated on May 21, 2023, by Amit Shah, the Minister of Home Aff airs and Cooperation, Government of India. This marks Amul’s fi rst dedicated facility for organic testing and supporting organic producers. Amul entered the organic business in May 2022 with the launch of Amul Organic Atta and has since expanded its organic product portfolio. Organic products such as Basmati Rice, Toor Dal, Chana Dal, Masoor Dal, Moong, Rajma, Besan and Kabuli Chana have been added over the past year. A range of other organic products are in the pipeline. The newly established organic testing lab at Amul is equipped with state-of-the-art instruments. These advanced equipment will help identify and quantify organic compounds in food samples. They can detect pesticides, herbicides, and other organic contaminants, determine trace elements and heavy metals in food samples, and also detect mycotoxins, additives, and preservatives. Amul opens state-of-the-art advanced organic food testing lab in Gandhinagar Reliance Consumer Products has formed a strategic partnership with Ceylon Beverage International, one of Sri Lanka’s leading beverage can and fi lling companies in Sri Lanka founded by former cricketer Muthiah Muralitharan. The collaboration aims to co-pack and manufacture the Campa soft drinks cans. Under the partnership, Ceylon Beverage International will copack cans for the Campa soft drinks portfolio in India. In addition to the co-packing agreement, plans are underway to establish manufacturing units in India dedicated to producing Campa’s soft drinks. As part of the agreement, Reliance Consumer Products is also expected to secure distribution rights for certain brands owned by Ceylon Beverage International in India. With a fi lling capacity of 300 million beverage cans per year, Ceylon Beverages’ plant boasts partnerships with various international, national, and regional companies. ITC has launched a new paper packaging solution for its wheat fl our product, ‘Aashirvaad Organic Atta’, with the aim of promoting a more ‘sustainable lifestyle’ among consumers. The innovative packaging features a ‘unique QR code’ to enhance the traceability of the product’s sourcing. The Aashirvaad Organic Atta paper-based packaging is now available for purchase on selected e-commerce platforms and retail outlets across Bengaluru. Through the QR code, customers can access detailed information about the source farms and affi liated groups of farmers involved in the production of the organic raw materials used in the fi nal product. This initiative emphasises transparency and enables consumers to make informed choices about the origin and quality of their food. The introduction of the paper-based packaging aligns with ITC’s broader ‘Sustainability 2.0’ initiative. This includes a range of strategies to address climate change and facilitate the transition to a net-zero economy. ITC introduces paperbased packaging for Aashirvaad Organic Atta Reliance partners with Ceylon Beverage for packaging Campa cans
NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | June 2023 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in COMPANY NEWS 21 Akshayakalpa Organic has announced its foray into the organic vegetable and fruit category with the launch of ‘Greens’. Along with various essential vegetables and fruits, ‘Greens’ will off er organic spinach, tomato, chilli, and okra. The company has successfully diversifi ed its product range beyond dairy and now provides a wide array of off erings, including vegetables and fruits, milk, buttermilk, ghee, batter, paneer, curd, cheese, butter, coconut, bread, honey, herbs and eggs. With this launch, the company aims to achieve a 15 per cent increase in revenue by FY25. It has witnessed a rise in demand for organic food which is driven by Indian consumers who have started paying attention to what they are eating and what they are feeding their families. Most of the organic food demand is from the Western and Southern parts of the country. Initially, it plans to operate in Bengaluru, Chennai and Hyderabad with future expansion plans for Pune and Mumbai. Akshayakalpa Organic strives to deliver fresh and organic produce directly to households. Currently available in Bengaluru, the company will soon expand its reach to Hyderabad and Chennai. Emphasising sustainable farming practices, the brand ensures that its products are free from harmful chemicals and pesticides, providing consumers with a healthy and safe choice. This new venture aligns with the company’s mission of promoting a healthy lifestyle and fostering a sustainable future. Akshayakalpa enters organic fruits and veggie category with ‘Greens’ In a continued eff ort to promote healthier lifestyles, Nestlé India has introduced Resource Fibre Choice, an innovative solution designed to enhance gut health. Resource Fibre Choice incorporates PHGG (Partially Hydrolysed Guar Gum), a prebiotic dietary fi bre that is proven to help relieve constipation and improve gut health. PHGG is derived from naturally sourced guar gum beans (gwarfali) and is known for its gentle eff ect on the body, making it a safer option for addressing gut health concerns. Not only this, Nestlé Health Science’s pioneering solution is rich in ImmunoNutrients, providing 30 per cent of the daily recommended intake of Zinc, Selenium, Vitamin A, C and D, which supports a healthy immune system. It is estimated that 1 out of 4 individuals in urban India experience gut-related issues. Contributing factors to this condition include insuffi cient fi bre intake, irregular eating patterns, low water consumption, stress, and the consumption of fatty and oily foods, among others. Resource Fiber Choice contains plant-derived PHGG, making it suitable for maintaining gut health without the risk of dependency. Metropolis Healthcare has announced the launch of a novel testing platform based on Component Resolved Diagnostics (CRD) to assist the Indian population in diagnosing various types of allergies. This advanced allergy testing technology, known as 4th generation incorporates Artifi cial Intelligence (AI) to support clinicians in making informed clinical decisions and gain valuable insights into selecting and optimising personalised treatment plans for individuals with allergic conditions. The test is facilitated by a nanotechnology based multiplex system that utilises molecular components to accurately identify specifi c IgE antibodies related to 295 diff erent allergens. By conducting a simple blood test, the platform generates comprehensive results for 158 food allergens, 127 respiratory allergens, and 10 contact allergens. For instance, if a patient has a milk allergy, the test can predict whether the individual can safely consume boiled or baked milk without experiencing clinical reactions, or if complete avoidance of milk in all forms is necessary. Metropolis introduces AI-powered allergy component testing Nestlé launches ‘Resource Fiber Choice’ for improved gut health
22 WORLD NEWS NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | June 2023 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in The UN World Food Programme (WFP) and the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) have signed an agreement to address the devastating impacts of the climate crisis, environmental degradation and biodiversity and ecosystem loss on the food and water security of millions of people worldwide. The agreement, signed in Nairobi by Cindy McCain, Executive Director of WFP and Inger Andersen, Executive Director of UNEP, advances collaboration on climate change adaptation, nature-friendly food systems, water resource management and ecosystem restoration. WFP and UNEP will work with local communities, local and national governments, regional bodies, UN partners and other stakeholders to enhance the food, water and environmental security of vulnerable communities. This will be achieved through leveraging data and scientifi c knowledge to restore degraded ecosystems, implement scalable actions to adapt to the climate crisis, and support sustainable agricultural practices. WFP and UNEP join forces to bolster global food and water security The World Health Organisation (WHO) has released a new guideline on nonsugar sweeteners (NSS), which recommends against the use of NSS to control body weight or reduce the risk of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). This recommendation is derived from a systematic review of the available evidence which indicates that the long-term use of NSS does not provide any signifi cant benefi ts in reducing body fat in both adults and children. Results of the review also suggest that prolonged use of NSS may lead to potential adverse eff ects, including an increased risk of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and mortality in adults. The recommendation applies to all individuals except those with pre-existing diabetes and encompasses all types of non-nutritive sweeteners, whether synthetic, and naturally occurring, or modifi ed. These sweeteners are commonly found in manufactured food and beverage products, or sold separately for consumer use in adding to foods and beverages. Examples of common NSS include acesulfame K, aspartame, advantame, cyclamates, neotame, saccharin, sucralose, stevia and stevia derivatives. Policy decisions based on this recommendation may require substantive discussion in specifi c country contexts, taking into consideration factors such as the extent of NSS consumption across diff erent age groups. The Government of Switzerland, has pledged a contribution of $2.8 million to the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) in order to provide crucial food and nutrition assistance in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The funding from Switzerland is particularly signifi cant as it arrives at a critical time, allowing the DRC to eff ectively address the food and nutritional requirements of children and breastfeeding mothers suff ering from acute malnutrition. Switzerland has consistently demonstrated strong support for WFP in the DRC over the years. In 2022 alone, the Swiss Development Cooperation (SDC) provided a generous $22 million through WFP's Immediate Response Account, which is a vital funding facility that enables WFP to swiftly respond to emergencies. WFP used $4.3 million of this contribution to provide critical humanitarian assistance to 226,000 people in eastern DRC. Switzerland contributes $2.8M to address hunger in the DRC WHO advises against using non-sugar sweeteners for weight control
NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | June 2023 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in WORLD NEWS 23 In recent decades, the aquaculture industry has made remarkable advancements and is poised to meet the increasing demand for aquatic food. However, to ensure its continued growth and sustainability there is a pressing need for updated governing principles that promote responsible expansion, integration of modern technologies, and adherence to environmental, social and economic considerations to meet the needs of present and future generations. Recognising this need, a series of articles written by leading experts in the fi eld have been published following the Global Conference on Aquaculture Millennium +20 held in Shanghai. This conference, organised by the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) and its partners, marked a signifi cant milestone in addressing the challenges and opportunities facing the aquaculture sector. The objective is to achieve the sustainable intensifi cation and expansion of aquaculture while meeting global demand for aquatic food and ensuring equitable distribution of benefi ts. This requires a careful balance of social responsibility, pollution control, and other important factors to ensure the industry’s long-term viability and positive impact on food security and sustainable development. FAO leads global efforts to strengthen aquaculture for food and sustainable development The World Bank has given approval for an $18 million grant from the International Development Association (IDA) to support the Republic of the Marshall Islands in eff ective management and cooperation within the fi sheries sector. This funding aims to ensure the sustainable development and proper management of this vital sector which plays a crucial role in both regional and national economies and contributes to food security. Oceanic and coastal fi sheries sectors are critical for the economies of countries across the region. However, these sectors face numerous challenges such as climate change, over-exploitation, pollution, population growth, and inadequate management, which could potentially undermine their long-term viability. Under the Marshall Islands components of the Pacifi c Islands Regional Oceanscape Programme’s Second Phase for Economic Resilience Project (RMI PROPER), critical institutions like the Marshall Islands Maritime Resource Authority (MIMRA) will be strengthened. The project will also focus on enhancing regional fi sheries management, building on existing conservation and management eff orts to ensure the sustainability of fi sh stocks and fi sheries for future generations. Additionally it will support coastal fi sheries management and habitat conservation, which are crucial for food security, nutrition, health, and the overall wellbeing of all Marshallese people. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has introduced a comprehensive Health Service Delivery Framework for the Prevention and Management of Obesity as part of the WHO Acceleration Plan to Stop Obesity. The newly launched framework aims to enhance access to obesity prevention and management services across all age groups throughout the life course. It provides guidance on integrating and organising obesity prevention and management services within the health system and community, emphasising their crucial role in achieving universal health coverage. Built on the principles of primary health care and employing a chronic care approach, the framework advocates for the integration of obesity prevention and management into existing service delivery structures, including community and home settings. It also facilitates resource planning for scaling up and sustaining these services. The development of this framework was a collaborative eff ort between the Nutrition and Food Safety Department, Integrated Health Services Department, Clinical Services and Systems Unit, and the WHO European Regional Offi ce for the Prevention and Control of Noncommunicable Disease. WHO releases framework for prevention and management of obesity World Bank approves $18M grant to Marshall Islands for food security
24 COVER NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | June 2023 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in How Technology is Impacting DAIRY INDUSTRY The Indian dairy sector has been going great guns since Verghese Kurien unleashed the White Revolution in India. There's been no looking back, despite numerous challenges by way of fodder shortage, milk adulteration, cattle diseases and shifts in dietary habits of a major section of the urban population over the years. Milk from the dairy (not plant-based faux milk), continues to be a part of Indian breakfast tables. The dairy market in India hit the Rs 1,489,980 crore mark in 2022. As per market research fi rm IMARC Group, the market is expected to reach Rs 3,118,570 crore by 2028, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 13.2 per cent during 2023-28. Yet, there still remain challenges that ought to be addressed. Let's examine the dairy sector's present and future outlook in terms of innovations in new technologies, governmental policies, and more.
NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | June 2023 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in COVER 25 On March 4, 2023 the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has directed States/Union Territories (UT) to deploy Food Safety on Wheels (FSW) mobile food testing vans, to check adulteration of milk and milk products considering the ensuing festive season of Holi. The food authority has requested the Commissioner of Food Safety of all states/UTs to carry out testing of at least 10 samples of milk and milk products per FSW on a daily basis to tighten vigilance against milk adulteration. FSSAI has encouraged consumers to get their milk and milk products tested through the FSWs deployed closest to them. The tests were carried out free of cost. The whole exercise was targeted towards ensuring availability of safe and pure milk and milk products to the consumers of the country. 168 FSWs were made available with the states/UTs for carrying out on-thespot food testing for various food products including milk and milk products. Tests for Fats, Solid-not-Fat, Protein, Adulterants like Added Water, Urea, Sucrose, Maltodexterine, and Ammonium Sulphate were done through the Milk-o-Screen system installed at FSWs. Amidst concerns over milk adulteration and its potential health hazards, the dairy sector in India has emerged as a robust and thriving industry. According to data from the Food and Agriculture Organisation Corporate Statistical Database (FAOSTAT), India holds the top position in global milk production, contributing 24 per cent of total output in 2021-22. Over the past eight years, the country's milk production witnessed a remarkable 51 per cent increase, reaching a staggering 22 crore tonnes in 2021-22. The Union Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Parshottam Rupala releasing the department’s annual publication, the ‘Basic Animal Husbandry Statistics 2022’ on March 15, 2023, said that the total milk production in the country during 2021-22 touched 221.06 million tonnes registering a growth of 5.29 per cent over previous year. The top fi ve major milk producing states include Rajasthan (15.05 per cent), Uttar Pradesh (14.93 per cent), Madhya Pradesh (8.06 per cent), Gujarat (7.56 per cent) and Andhra Pradesh (6.97 per cent). The dairy market in India reached Rs 14,899.8 billion in 2022. Looking forward, IMARC Group expects the market to reach Rs 31,185.7 billion by 2028, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 13.2 per cent during 2023-28. India has been the leading producer and consumer of dairy products worldwide since 1998 with a sustained growth in the availability of milk and milk products. Dairy activities form an essential part of the rural Indian economy, serving as an important source of employment and income. India also has the largest bovine population in the world. However, the milk production per animal is signifi cantly low as compared to the other major dairy producers. Moreover, nearly all of the dairy produce in India is consumed domestically, with the majority of it being sold as fl uid milk. On account of this, the Indian dairy industry holds tremendous potential for valueaddition and overall development. Droupadi Murmu, the President of India, who graced the 19th convocation ceremony of the National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal in its centenary year on April 24 said “The dairy industry plays an important role in ensuring the food and nutritional security of the country. It is a matter of pride that India is the largest milk-producing country in the world. The dairy sector contributes about 5 per cent to the country's GDP and the dairy industry provides livelihood to about 8 crore families. The dairy sector is grappling with problems such as the management of good quality fodder for cattle, changes in weather and cattle diseases. Sustainable milk production and dairy farming is a challenge, and it is the responsibility of all stakeholders, including the government to fi nd a solution. It is our responsibility to
26 COVER “ The dairy industry plays an important role in ensuring the food and nutritional security of the country. The dairy sector contributes about 5 per cent to the country's GDP and the dairy industry provides livelihood to about 8 crore families. Droupadi Murmu, President of India “ The total milk production in the country during 2021-22 touched 221.06 million tonnes registering a growth of 5.29 per cent over previous year. Parshottam Rupala, Union Minister, Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Government of India “ The 3D paper-based microfl uidic device not only enhances liquid food safety monitoring but also facilitates the traceability of contaminated milk in remote areas of developing countries. Dr Pallab Sinha Mahapatra, Department of Mechanical Engineering, IIT Madras NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | June 2023 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in develop the dairy industry by adopting environmentfriendly and climate-smart technologies, keeping animal welfare in mind.” In order to supply safe and high-quality milk to consumers nationwide, the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying (DAHD), Government of India, in collaboration with FSSAI has undertaken various initiatives and measures. These initiatives aim to address the concerns surrounding milk quality and safety, guaranteeing the availability of safe and nutritious dairy products for consumers throughout the country. Ensuring dairy safety In its ongoing eff ort to curb adulteration of milk and milk products, on May 25, FSSAI announced that it will conduct nation-wide surveillance on milk and milk products (such as milk, khoa, chenna, paneer, ghee, butter, curd, and ice cream). This Pan-India surveillance will be done on a large scale by collecting samples from both the organised and unorganised sectors in all the districts of the states/ UTs. The rationale behind choosing milk is due to its indispensable role in our food culture either as a fresh fl uid or as processed dairy products. Milk contains vital micronutrients and macronutrients. People of every age group include milk or milk products in their daily diet. Changing lifestyle patterns and increasing health consciousness are the key growth drivers for milk and high value milk products in India. FSSAI, so far, has conducted fi ve surveys on milk and milk products since 2011 and continues to monitor the safety and quality of the food products and always plan to conduct surveillance based on the outbreak of any food related issues and emerging risks. According to the nationwide National Milk Safety and Quality Survey (NMQS-2018) conducted by FSSAI, the percentage of adulterated milk samples was remarkably low. Out of 6,432 samples of milk collected, only 12 samples (0.19 per cent) were found to be adulterated, rendering them unsafe for human consumption. While this is a concern, the data challenges the perception that liquid milk in the country is largely adulterated. Numerous companies, milk cooperatives and startups in the dairy industry, have placed signifi cant emphasis on providing safe, adulterant-free products using technology and through their new products and platforms. Gokul Dairy's fi ve-layered poly-fi lm pouches A year ago, Kolhapur District Cooperative Milk Producers Union Ltd., popularly known as Gokul Dairy, introduced a breakthrough solution to combat milk adulteration. They launched fi ve-layered poly-fi lm pouches for milk packaging, aiming to prevent milk adulteration. One of the most common methods of adulteration involves piercing the pouch with a syringe, extracting the milk and replacing it with water. With the new packaging, it was claimed that if the pouch is pierced, a blue colour in one of the layers automatically spreads, imparting a dark colour to the pouch. This visible change serves as an indication to customers that the milk has been adulterated. Advancements through collaboration The collaboration between industry and academia has played a signifi cant role in introducing innovative technologies to the dairy sector. Various Indian institutes are actively exploring opportunities in the dairy sector. On March 27, researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT-M) announced the availability of a pocket-friendly, three-dimensional (3D) paperbased device capable of detecting milk adulteration within 30 seconds. This portable device can even
COVER 27 “ Essae’s USP is that the ultrasonic sensors used in these analysers are entirely conceived, engineered, and built-in in India, unlike other players who import these. Prabhu Chandran, Managing Director, Essae Teraoka, Bengaluru “ The Fatscan Milk Analyser is developed and made in India. We are confi dent that it will make a signifi cant contribution to improving the quality and enhancing the safety of milk and milk products for consumers. Parimal Patel, Joint Managing Director, Everest Instruments, Ahmedabad “ Since A2 milk is sold at a higher price in the market, both consumers and producers should be aware of A2 milk identifi cation and its concept. V Jayalalitha, Assistant Professor and Head, Veterinary University Training and Research Centre, Tiruchirappalli NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | June 2023 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in be used at home. It can detect multiple substances commonly used as adulterants, such as urea, detergents, soap, starch, hydrogen peroxide, sodium-hydrogencarbonate, and salt, among others. Unlike conventional laboratory-based methods, which are expensive and time-consuming, this aff ordable technology enables the testing of other liquids such as water, fresh juices, and milkshakes for traces of adulteration. IITM’s 3D paper-based adulterant detector Explaining the functionality of the paper-based device, Dr Pallab Sinha Mahapatra, Associate Professor from the Department of Mechanical Engineering at IIT Madras, said, “The 3D paper-based microfl uidic device consists of a top and bottom cover, with a sandwich structure middle layer. This unique 3D design enables the consistent transportation of denser liquids at a controlled speed. The paper is treated with reagents and left to dry. Through colourimetric detection techniques, the device can identify various adulterants in diff erent liquid samples. This analytical tool not only enhances liquid food safety monitoring but also facilitates the traceability of contaminated milk in remote areas of developing countries.” By observing evaporative deposition patterns, which emerge when a liquid mixture like milk completely evaporates, volatile components dissipate, while solids or non-volatile components arrange themselves in distinct patterns. The researchers’ next goal is to expand the technique to detect a wider range of adulterants, such as emulsions formed by oil and detergents that Advancements in milk analysis technology Continuing the trend of innovation, another notable institute in Bengaluru has made signifi cant strides in the fi eld. Researchers at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) have developed a low-cost and eff ective method for detecting adulterants in milk, by analysing deposition patterns after evaporation. The team focused on testing for the presence of urea and water, the most common adulterants, but they believe this technique can be extended to identify other types of adulterants as well.
28 COVER NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | June 2023 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying schemes for increased milk production Rashtriya Gokul Mission: This scheme provides eligible entrepreneurs with a 50 per cent capital subsidy, up to a maximum of Rs 2 crore. Entrepreneurs establishing breed multiplication farms can also avail interest subvention under the Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund. Dairy Processing and Infrastructure Development Fund (DIDF): The objective of this scheme is to create and strengthen being implemented with the objective of creation/ strengthening of milk processing, value addition and chilling facilities. The National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) raises funds from the market and disburses loans to dairy cooperatives with a 2.5 per cent interest subvention through the National Dairy Development Board and the National Cooperative Development Corporation. The Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying provides a 2.5 per cent interest subvention to NABARD. Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund (AHIDF): AHIDF is one of the fl agship schemes by DAHD, Government of India whereby Rs 15,000 crore fund has been setup for off ering fi nancial support to set up new units or expand existing units in areas of dairy processing and related value addition infrastructure, meat processing and related value addition infrastructure and animal feed plant. Under this scheme, eligible benefi ciaries establishing dairy processing and value addition infrastructure receive a 3 per cent interest subvention, in addition to other components of the scheme. Support to State Dairy Cooperative & Farmers Producers Organisation (SDCFPO): Introduced from the fi nancial year 2020-21, this scheme provides onetime support in the form of interest subvention on working capital loans. Kisan Credit Card (KCC): – For the fi rst time, the Government of India has extended the KCC facility to Animal Husbandry and Fisheries farmers for their working capital requirements. Farmers, including individuals or joint borrowers, Joint Liability Groups, and Self Help Groups are eligible for benefi ts under this scheme, provided they have owned, rented or leased sheds. Cooperative milk production centres improvement schemes: zNational Programme for Dairy Development zDairy Infrastructure Development Fund zSupport to Dairy Cooperative and Farmer Producers’ Organisations resemble milk. At the industry level, the Indian dairy industry has recently received its fi rst indigenous dual ultrasonic sensor-based milk analyser from Essae Teraoka, a Bengaluru-based joint venture with Teraoka Seiko of Japan. The Essae MA-825, the fi rst ‘Made In India’ dual ultrasonic sensor milk analyser, matches the signifi cant advancements in technology and design. It is cost-effi cient, hygienic, and compliant with regulatory recommendations. “Essae’s USP is that the ultrasonic sensors used in these analysers are entirely conceived, engineered, and built-in in India, unlike other players who import these. Another uniqueness of the MA-825 is that it analyses samples and shows results in just 23 seconds at 30 degrees Celsius. With the MA-825, there is absolute transparency in how the milk is analysed, maximising the help of technology and digitalisation. With state-of-the-art technology in play, there are zero sampling errors ensuring farmers are satisfi ed. Farmers are also made aware that they are being paid based on accurate results,” explained Prabhu Chandran, Managing Director of Essae Teraoka. Adding to the roster of dairy technology solutions, Everest Instruments, based in Ahmedabad, has introduced another ‘Made In India’ solution for the Indian dairy industry. The dairy-tech company launched the Fatscan Milk Analyser, which utilises cutting-edge technology to provide accurate and effi cient analysis of milk quality. This cost-eff ective device can measure FAT, SNF, added water, density, protein, and lactose percentage in less than 30 seconds. The Fatscan milk analyser contributes to the Make in India and Atma Nirbhar Bharat campaigns. “Until now, milk analysers were imported from Europe. The Fatscan Milk Analyser is developed and made in India. We are confi dent r, matches the Chandran Addi d
NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | June 2023 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in COVER 29 Key companies in the Indian Dairy Testing Market that it will make a signifi cant contribution to improving the quality and enhancing the safety of milk and milk products for consumers. With its user-friendly interface and intuitive design, the Fatscan Milk Analyser is suitable for all users. The device is portable and can be used in a variety of settings,” said Parimal Patel, Joint Managing Director of Everest Instruments. Need for A1/A2 identifi cation Kits Milk plays a crucial role in ensuring nutritional security in many countries around the world. Recently, a global debate has emerged regarding the potential harmfulness of A1 milk (from hybrid cows) and the purported benefi ts of A2 milk (from indigenous cows). Despite the absence of clinical evidence, milk is being marketed as A2 milk at a premium price without proper identifi cation at the fi eld level. A study conducted by the Veterinary University Training and Research Centre (VUTRC), Tiruchirappalli utilising the TANUVAS A1A2 detect kit in various locations within the Tiruchirappalli district, revealed that approximately 21.05 per cent of the indigenous breeds produced A1 milk. The study also included non-descriptive local cows, of which 2 out of 6 samples exhibited an A1A2 genotype. These fi ndings indicate that regardless of the breed, the genotype of the animal can vary. Concluding the study, V Jayalalitha, Assistant Professor and Head of the VUTRC, Tiruchirappalli said, “Since A2 milk is sold at a higher price in the market, both consumers and producers should be aware of A2 milk identifi cation and its concept.” Jayalalitha highlighted the fact that consumers are paying a signifi cantly higher price for milk without knowing its true identity. Moreover, she noted the rising availability of A2 milk products in the market. “Although FSSAI has not established any specifi c standards for A2 milk, its demand in the market continues to rise.” This study concludes that validated test kits such as the TANUVAS A1A2 detect kit are necessary to accurately identify A2 milk before making any claims, she said. Contrary to the common belief that all indigenous cattle produce A2 milk, certain breeds such as Gir, Sahiwal, Tharparkar, Haryanvi, Ongole, Kankrej, Gangatiri, and Rathi may also produce A1 milk due to widespread contamination of their genomes or genome defi lement in recent years. Factors such as poor breed management, hybridisation for large-scale production, and genetic mutations could be signifi cant contributors to this issue. Therefore, it is crucial for milk suppliers to possess an A2 milk cow certifi cate as evidence to support their claims. Additionally, regulatory bodies like the FSSAI should prioritise the development of portable and aff ordable A1A2 milk detection kits to empower consumers in making informed decisions and prevent unnecessary expenditure on false claims. A way forward To check on the problem of milk adulteration in the country, FSSAI has advised the food safety authorities in States/ UTs to maintain a strict vigil on milk chilling units, intensify surveillance during festive seasons, follow a policy of periodic transfers in respect of Food Safety Offi cers (FSOs) and generate local intelligence regarding the malpractices and strengthen testing and enforcement infrastructure both physical as well as human. These measures with the support of the private players, who are investing on technology platforms and kits in detecting adulteration will go a long way in off ering safe milk and milk products to the consumers across the nation. Mansi Jamsudkar [email protected] 1. TUV Nord Group, 2. Asurequality, 3. Romer Labs, 4. Bureau Veritas, 5. Intertek, Source- techsciresearch report 6. SGS, 7. Eurofi ns, 8. TUV SUD, 9. Microbac Laboratories
30 PLANT-BASED MILK NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | June 2023 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in The long road ahead for animal-free milk in India The market for plant-based milk is still in its infancy and faces several challenges as it strives to compete with the well-established dairy industry. By addressing aff ordability concerns, fostering consumer education, and ensuring sustainable business practices, the plant-based milk industry can make signifi cant strides towards meeting the evolving needs of Indian consumers. S oy milk, almond milk, and oat milk are among the plant-based milks now available to Indian consumers, found on store shelves and café menus. In the developed market of the United States, plant-based milk accounted for 15 per cent of total retail milk dollar sales by 2020. Reports suggest that Indian consumers, like their Western counterparts, are increasingly incorporating products from this category into their diets as alternatives to dairy products from animals. The report further states that the dairy industry in India has grown by 12 per cent over the past fi ve years, with value-added products playing a signifi cant role in this expansion. However, despite being relatively new, plantbased dairy is gaining popularity worldwide including among Indian consumers. The popularity of plant-based milks is experiencing encouraging growth in India. Plantbased dairy in India is projected to develop at a compound Source: pilk.in
NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | June 2023 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in PLANT-BASED MILK 31 annual growth rate (CAGR) of 20.7 per cent, reaching $63.9 million by 2024, compared to the estimated $140 billion market size of animal-derived dairy. Sustainability The traditional dairy sector in India heavily relies on cow farming, which demands signifi cant space, water, and food resources. Unfortunately, this practice contributes to deforestation, greenhouse gas emissions, and water pollution, particularly in industrial-scale dairy farms. Moreover the use of antibiotics and hormones in conventional dairy farming can have unintended consequences for the environment. In contrast, plant-based milk alternatives such as soy milk, almond milk, and oat milk off er greener alternatives to cow's milk. These plant-based options have a smaller ecological footprint, requiring less water and land resources while generating fewer greenhouse gases. Unlike conventional dairy farming, the production of plant-based milk production does not contribute to the destruction of natural habitats or water contamination. Expanding on the subject, Parini Kapadia, Founder & Chief Scientifi c Offi cer, Zero Cow Factory, stated, “Sohil and I founded Zero Cow Factory because we saw a need to address issues related to climate change, animal welfare, and protein defi ciency in developing nations like India.” She further explained, “Proteins produced through precision fermentation are identical to animal-sourced proteins, particularly dairy proteins on a molecular, chemical, and technological level. They have the same amino acid profi le as the protein sequence found in bovines, but we synthesise them manually in a laboratory. So, they have the same fl avour and consistency, but are produced using a diff erent method.” Benefi ts Plant-based milks are highly sought-after due to their numerous positive health eff ects. Many individuals experience discomfort, including abdominal distention, gas, nausea, and gastrointestinal distress, making plantbased milk an ideal dairy replacement. It off ers the same creamy and foamy texture as dairy milk but without the hormones, fat, and cholesterol found in cow's milk. In contrast to dairy milk, alternative milks are low in calories and cholesterol, containing 90 per cent less saturated fat. Plant-based milk off ers several health benefi ts: Environmental impact: Producing one litre of milk from almonds, soy, and other plant sources requires signifi cantly less water compared to traditional dairy milk. This is important as animal agriculture is a major contributor to global warming, with dairy farms being the largest producers of methane and consumers of water. Dairy alternatives have a much smaller environmental footprint. Health conditions: Dairy substitutes are increasingly preferred over conventional milk by individuals with health issues such as milk allergies, acne, PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome), PCOD (polycystic ovarian disease), IBS (irritable bowel syndrome), and even asthma. Plant-based milk can off er a nutritious alternative that supports their dietary needs. Consumer preference Factors such as cost, fl avour, nutrition, availability, aff ordability, daily consumption patterns, and sustainability are crucial considerations for customers. As plant-based milk tends to be more expensive as dairy milk, it can only attract a small but affl uent subset of the population. Adopting plant-based milk in everyday meals, such as in coff ee, tea, or setting curd requires familiarity with its unique fl avour, texture, and taste. Therefore, customers need to develop new preferences and behaviours that diff er from their current norms. To achieve widespread consumer adoption of plant-based milk, it is important to raise awareness about its benefi ts, ensure its acceptability, and off er competitive pricing options. The growing popularity of plant-based diets refl ects a broader movement towards a more ethical and environmentally friendly way of living, which also benefi ts the world. The pandemic has further heightened people's consciousness in this regard. An increasing number of customers are opting for plant-based milk alternatives for various reasons, making the market for plant-based milk a rapidly emerging subsegment. However, in order Source: Good Food Institute (GFI), India Milk consumption patterns The milk consumption in India is not onedimensional. Consumers of non-animal milk anticipate a future where both plant-based milk and milk from animals are used in India. In fact, 90 per cent of those who drink plant-based milk have also consumed dairy milk from animals within the past year. This demonstrates that plant-based dairy can grow in popularity alongside dairy from animals, rather than replacing it. Plant-based milk is often consumed on its own, with morning cereals, and in teas and coff ees. In contrast, animal-based milk is primarily purchased for its nutritional value. Consumers rate plant-based milks higher in areas like sustainability and lactose intolerance while giving higher ratings to animal-derived milk in terms of fl avour, price, and versatility.
32 PLANT-BASED MILK NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | June 2023 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in for this category to expand further and gain widespread popularity, there are several benchmarks that need to be prioritised, including aff ordability, accessibility, and consumer taste preference. Policy and framework According to the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) regulations, Food Business Operators (FBOs) are required to ensure that proper precautions are taken in accordance with Good Manufacturing Practices at all stages of production, processing, and distribution in order to avoid the unintended presence of any non-vegan substance. If a production line is shared with non-vegan products or ingredients, thorough cleaning or equivalent measures in compliance with manufacturing practices must be undertaken before producing vegan products. FBOs must diligently adhere to any additional standards outlined by the food authority to maintain the integrity of vegan meals, food ingredients, or food products on a timely basis. In September 2021, the FSSAI introduced a new logo to facilitate easier recognition and diff erentiation of vegan meals from other types of food. The logo features a square box with a green “V” in the centre, a small plant on top, and the word vegan written at the bottom. It is similar to the contemporary vegetarian and non-vegetarian food and product emblem, which is a dot in the centre of a square. No food may be produced, packaged, sold, off ered for sale, marketed, distributed, or imported as vegan food unless it complies with the FSSAI regulations. Every packaging material used for vegan products must adhere to the provisions of the packaging regulations. According to the FSSAI regulations, sellers of vegan food must store and display such food in a manner that distinguishes it from any non-vegan food, whether it is sold separately or as part of retail items. Additionally, every package of vegan food must bear a specifi c FSSAI mark after receiving clearance. Technological advancements and challenges India's food technology sector has witnessed Plant based milk Traditional milk z Lactose-free z 60% lactose intolerant z Animal-friendly z One of the major 9 allergens z Cruelty-free z around 7% of the children suff er from cow’s milk allergies z No hormones z Cause of acne and skin problem, leads to PCOD. z Less water consumption z Increase LDL (bad) cholesterol and cause many problems. z Less land consumption z Major cause of carbon footprint z Low in fat and calories z Consumes lot of water z Lower carbon footprint z Hgh insulinogenic response Plant-based vs traditional milk Making inroads The Indian dairy alternatives market stood at $94.92 million in 2020-21, growing with a CAGR of 11.36 per cent to reach a value of $175.36 million by 2025-26. The increase in the expenditure capacity of the consumers and booming consumer base with lactose intolerance are driving the growth of the dairy alternative market. The rise in awareness about the advantages of consuming plant-based products and the adverse eff ect of procuring animal products on animal health is expected to boost the demand of the Indian dairy alternatives market, according to ResearchAndMarkets. The rise in the number of market players and the adoption of online sales channels by the market players to increase the consumer base and sales is expected to infl uence the demand of the Indian dairy alternatives market for the next fi ve years. tremendous advancements to meet the increasing demand for dairy alternatives. Both new and established companies are investing in research and development to discover innovative plant-based alternatives to milk and dairy, while simulating its fl avour, consistency, and nutritional profi le. However, like any other industry, the plant-based milk sector faces various issues and challenges. Plant-based dairy substitutes can be more costly to produce, compared to conventional dairy products, making them less aff ordable for consumers on a tight budget. Achieving the same fl avour and texture as conventional dairy remains a technical struggle for many producers. Nonetheless, these challenges also present opportunities for growth and innovation. As production costs decrease due to increased effi ciency and economies of scale, the price of dairy alternatives is expected to decline. Collaboration between food tech companies, research institutions, and dairy farmers can expedite
NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | June 2023 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in PLANT-BASED MILK 33 Company Brand Year Plant-based milk off erings Hershey India Sofi t 2012 Soya milk fl avoured with variants such as kesar pista, coff ee mocha, milk chocolate, vanilla, mango Raw Pressery Raw Pressery 2013 Almond milk in cacao, coff ee, dates, unsweetened and mango fl avour Karma Milk Nutriva 2013 Almond milk, peanut butter milk Urban Platter Urban Platter 2015 Unsweetened almond milk, soya milk, coconut milk, soy milk and coconut milk powder Drums Food International Epigamia 2015 Almond milk in chocolate and unsweetened variant GoodMylk GoodMylk 2018 Cashew and oats milk, also available in chocolate and no sugar variant Life Health Foods (India) So Good 2018 Almond milk in natural, almond, chocolate, coconut and vanilla fl avours and Soya milk in original, natural, chocolate, elaichi and tender coconut Zero Cow Factory Zero Cow Factory produces milk through biotechnology 2021 The startup replicates cow's milk texture, nutrient profi le, taste and appearance by using an in-house developed patented technology. Alt Co. Oat milk 2020 Startup off ering oat milk in the original fl avour SAIN SAIN 2018 Company produces almond-milk in various fl avours such as cacao, vanilla, cardamom, and many others MilkinOats MilkinOats 2020 It off ers dairy-free oat milk products and chocolates. Jus Amazin Jus Amazin 2017 It provides dairy, soy, and gluten-free plant-based foods Indian animal free milk players the development of sustainable and economically viable alternatives. Mehal Kejriwal, Co-founder, Happy Milk said “One of the major obstacles for businesses in this industry is the relatively high cost of plant-based milk compared to conventional dairy alternatives. It's diffi cult to persuade Indian consumers and expand their market because of their already-positive attitudes about the health benefi ts of traditional milk. Finding and disseminating information about dairy-free alternatives remains a challenge.” The way forward The market for plant-based milk is still in its infancy and faces several challenges as it strives to compete with the well-established dairy industry. Aff ordability remains a signifi cant concern, as plant-based milk products tend to be more expensive compared to conventional dairy. This issue is particularly relevant in India, a middle-income country where price sensitivity is high. Another obstacle is the resistance to change among Indian consumers, who have a strong preference for traditional milk. Overcoming this deep-rooted preference requires extensive eff orts to educate consumers about the benefi ts and availability of plant-based milk options. There is currently a lack of knowledge and awareness regarding plant-based milk, highlighting the need for robust educational initiatives by businesses in this industry. Furthermore, the majority of companies operating in the plant-based milk market are startups. This poses fi nancial challenges as they must allocate signifi cant resources towards awareness campaigns and ongoing research and development. Meeting these demands can strain their fi nancial capabilities. Despite these challenges, it is crucial for the plant-based milk market to grow alongside the dairy industry. As consumer preferences shift towards more ethical and sustainable choices, there is a potential for the plantbased milk market to expand. By addressing aff ordability concerns, fostering consumer education, and ensuring sustainable business practices, the plant-based milk industry can make signifi cant strides towards meeting the evolving needs of Indian consumers. Nitin Konde
34 STREET FOOD NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | June 2023 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in S treet foods have long been an integral part of Indian society, representing the rich local culinary traditions found throughout the country. These street food stalls not only off er aff ordable daily meals to millions of people but also provide employment opportunities to large numbers and support the tourism industry. However, ensuring food safety and hygiene at street food outlets and hubs have remained a matter of concern. With rapid urbanisation, the proliferation of street food hubs has made food easily accessible, but it has also exacerbated issues of food contamination and associated health risks due to unhygienic and unsafe food practices. To address this challenge, a comprehensive food safety training programme that includes both theoretical and practical activities is crucial for food handlers to translate their knowledge into practical applications. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has initiated the largest Food Safety Training & Certifi cation (FoSTaC) programme in July 2017, aimed at creating a pool of FSS. Training has been conducted in a cascading mode. First, the empanelled National Resource Persons (NRPs) train the trainers and then the trained trainers train hundreds of FSS. These FSS in turn train food handlers in their food business premises. So far over 950000 FSS have been trained in over 32000 trainings in the fi rst fi ve years after the initiation of the FoSTaC. These trainings are expected to bring in a culture of self-compliance on food safety measures amongst the food business, mainly the street food vendors and raise the bar for food safety and hygiene in the country. Talking about the training programme for street vendors, Prof. Sunita Mishra, Head of the Department of Food and Nutrition at SHS, Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University, Lucknow said, “Vendor training programmes are needed to educate vendors on food safety and sanitary practices and to match their needs to their circumstances. The government should implement essential measures and appropriate food hygiene rules and regulations to The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) initiated the largest Food Safety Training & Certifi cation (FoSTaC) programme in July 2017, aimed at creating a pool of food safety supervisors (FSS). A total of 950000 above FSS have been trained in over 32000 trainings in the fi rst fi ve years throughout the country after the initiation of the FoSTaC. Development of such a large training capacity is an evidence to the fact that the country is undergoing major transformation as far as food safety is concerned. FoSTaC trainings are expected to bring in a culture of selfcompliance on food safety measures amongst the food business mainly the street food vendors and raise the bar for food safety and hygiene in the country. Can The Clean Street Food Hub Initiative transform India’s street food culture? encourage safe food handling knowledge and attitudes. As the level of knowledge and attitude increases, so does the level of practice among the vendors. Vendors could then be introduced to the benefi ts of food safety knowledge, attitudes, and practices through training to maintain the food quality of street food and help to protect the public from microbes and communicable diseases.” Recognising the signifi cance of this issue, the Union Health Ministry, in collaboration with the Ministry of Housing and Urban Aff airs, has recently urged states and Union Territories (UTs) to develop 100 food streets in 100 districts across the country. This initiative serves as a pilot project, setting an example for the establishment of similar hygienic and safe food practices in other areas. The project aims to promote safe and healthy food practices among food businesses and community members, ultimately reducing foodborne illnesses and improving overall health outcomes. The signifi cance of hygiene in street food The government’s Clean Street Food Hub initiative not only aims to promote the “eat right campaign” and ensure food safety but also seeks to enhance the hygiene credibility of local food businesses, stimulate local employment, boost tourism, and ultimately strengthen the economy. This unique initiative will be implemented through the National Health Mission (NHM) in collaboration with the Ministry of Housing and Urban Aff airs, with technical support from the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). To address critical gaps, fi nancial assistance of Rs 1 crore per food street/district will be provided to the states and UTs. The plan is to establish 100 such food streets in 100 districts across the country. This assistance will be granted under the NHM, with a funding ratio of 60:40 or 90:10, on the condition that the food streets adhere to FSSAI guidelines for standard branding. Highlighting the signifi cance of this initiative, Pawan Agarwal, CEO of the Food Future Foundation and Former
NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | June 2023 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in STREET FOOD 35 CEO of FSSAI, emphasised its transformative impact on informal markets in terms of food safety and hygiene. He stated that by setting a strong example of safe food practices, the project would inspire wider adoption, ensuring public health for all. Through collaboration and comprehensive measures, India is establishing a sustainable framework that nurtures hygienic and safe food practices, benefi ting both consumers and businesses. By leveraging the expertise and resources of various departments, a comprehensive framework will ensure the proliferation of hygienic and safe food practices throughout the nation. Agarwal further said “To elevate food safety standards, this initiative would include training programmes for food handlers equipping them with the knowledge of best practices, fostering hygiene maintenance, and responsible waste disposal. Convergence with ongoing schemes, such as the Support to Urban Street Vendors (SUSV), amplifi es its impact. This holistic approach stimulates sustainable development, empowering local communities and fuels economic growth. Opportunities for employment soar, while the tourism industry fl ourishes under the banner of safe and hygienic street food experiences.” Benefi ts from the initiative Street food plays a crucial role in the Indian economy, and the collaboration between food producers, the government, and street vendors can have positive implications for the overall food industry in India. Several FMCG companies have positively welcomed this initiative and anticipate growth in the country’s food industry as a whole. Dr Prabodh Halde, Head, Regulatory Aff airs at Marico Ltd and Chairman of Confederation of All India Small and Medium Bakers (CASMB), congratulated the government, NHM, Ministry of Housing and Urban Aff airs, and FSSAI for their collective commitment to ensuring the well-being of consumers and street food vendors. He stated, “I applaud FSSAI's dedication over the past seven years in promoting and enforcing food safety practices. Their steadfast eff orts have contributed to a safer and healthier street food culture. This initiative not only ensures convenient access to aff ordable and hygienic meals for millions but also generates employment opportunities and supports the tourism industry. We, as stakeholders, have been supporting this initiative since its inception because food safety is a shared responsibility. With this collaboration, I am confi dent that the standard branding of these food streets, as per FSSAI guidelines will further enhance food safety practices, making street food a trusted and enjoyable culinary experience.” The role of labelling Food labelling regulations have the potential to play a signifi cant role in supporting street food vendors and food streets in India by ensuring transparency, safety, and consumer trust. Enabling eff ective food labelling regulations for the operationalisation of 100 Food Streets across the country can yield several benefi ts. Successful implementation of labelling regulations relies on eff ective awareness campaigns and education programmes targeting both vendors and consumers. However, there are challenges associated with implementing labelling regulations for street food vendors. Rashida Vapiwala, Founder at LabelBlind highlighted the roadblocks involved, stating that the small-scale street food vendors might face challenges in understanding and adhering to complex labelling requirements. Language barriers, limited resources, and technical knowledge can hinder compliance. Simplifi ed guidelines and support programmes can help address this concern. For vendors with limited resources, implementing labelling regulations can lead to additional costs. The expense of purchasing labels, printers, or packaging materials might pose fi nancial burdens, particularly for street food vendors operating on a small scale. Policymakers should consider cost-eff ective alternatives and support mechanisms to “ Vendor training programmes are needed to educate vendors on food safety and sanitary practices and to match their needs to their circumstances. The government should implement essential measures and appropriate food hygiene rules and regulations to encourage safe food handling knowledge and attitudes. Prof. Sunita Mishra, Head of the Department of Food and Nutrition, SHS, Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University, Lucknow “ To elevate food safety standards, this initiative would include training programmes for food handlers equipping them with the knowledge of best practices, fostering hygiene maintenance, and responsible waste disposal. This holistic approach stimulates sustainable development, empowering local communities and fuels economic growth. Pawan Agarwal, CEO, Food Future Foundation and Former CEO FSSAI
36 STREET FOOD NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | June 2023 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in “ This initiative not only ensures convenient access to affordable and hygienic meals for millions but also generates employment opportunities and supports the tourism industry. We, as stakeholders, have been supporting this initiative since its inception because food safety is a shared responsibility. Dr Prabodh Halde, Head, Regulatory Affairs, Marico Ltd and Chairman of CASMB “ Small-scale street food vendors might face challenges in understanding and adhering to complex labelling requirements. Language barriers, limited resources, and technical knowledge can hinder compliance. Simplifi ed guidelines and support programmes can help address this concern. Rashida Vapiwala, Founder, LabelBlind Sr. No. State/UT No. of food streets 1 Andhra Pradesh 4 2 Assam 4 3 Bihar 4 4 Chhattisgarh 4 5 Delhi 3 6 Goa 2 7 Gujarat 4 8 Haryana 4 9 Himachal Pradesh 3 10 Jammu & Kashmir 3 11 Jharkhand 4 12 Karnataka 4 13 Kerala 4 14 Ladakh 1 15 Madhya Pradesh 4 16 Maharashtra 4 17 Odisha 4 18 Punjab 4 19 Rajasthan 4 20 Tamil Nadu 4 21 Telangana 4 22 Uttar Pradesh 4 23 Uttarakhand 4 24 West Bengal 4 25 Arunachal Pradesh 1 26 Manipur 1 27 Meghalaya 1 28 Mizoram 1 29 Nagaland 1 30 Sikkim 1 31 Tripura 1 32 A & N Islands 1 33 Chandigarh 1 34 DI) & DNH 1 35 Lakshadweep 1 36 Puducherry 1 Total 100 State-wise list of suggestive number of food streets regulatory requirements with cultural preservation is essential to maintain the vibrancy of food streets. While food labelling regulations have the potential to support street food vendors and food streets in India, by ensuring transparency and consumer trust, it is essential to address concerns related to compliance challenges, costs, cultural authenticity, and awareness. Achieving the right balance between regulation and fl exibility can create a thriving street food ecosystem that meets customer expectations while accommodating vendor needs. India's tireless eff orts to establish food safety in informal markets through the creation of vibrant food streets exemplify the nation’s proactive spirit. By championing safe food practices, this initiative not only safeguards public health but also drives employment, tourism, and the overall economy forward. With the dedicated collaboration of ministries and stakeholders, this comprehensive approach builds a sustainable framework that ensures hygienic and safe food practices thrive nationwide, benefi ting both consumers and food businesses alike. Together, street food can become synonymous with excellence, nourishing the nation with confi dence and delectable experiences. Mansi Jamsudkar ([email protected]) minimise the impact. Street food is often celebrated for its cultural authenticity and uniqueness. Overly strict labelling regulations could potentially limit the fl exibility and creativity of street food vendors, leading to a loss of traditional fl avours and culinary diversity. Balancing
NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | June 2023 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in SPEAKING WITH 37 Please update us on the latest developments in the company in terms of product development. At Royal Bee Natural Products, we are continuously innovating and developing new products in line with our philosophy of natural, ayurvedic and herbal products. Our R&D team is currently working on new variants of our existing products and exploring new product lines. We are also collaborating with other companies in the industry to bring synergies that benefi t both companies and our customers. We also have a dedicated focus on developing products that address the needs of people with lifestyle metabolic disorders. What was the revenue of the company in FY22, and what do you expect in FY23? How much revenue is generated through exports? The revenue of the company in FY22 was Rs 30 crore, out of which only 4 per cent was generated through exports. For FY23, we are expecting a revenue of Rs 60 crore, with exports revenue close to 20 per cent. Our goal is to continue to grow and contribute to the natural and herbal products industry, both domestically and internationally. While honey is a signifi cant contributor to our business, accounting for almost 80 per cent of our total revenue, we are also focused on expanding our ayurvedic sector, which currently contributes around 20 per cent of our revenue. We have plans to increase this contribution to 40 per cent this year through the introduction of new and innovative Ayurvedic products. We believe that this will not only diversify our product portfolio but also cater to the growing demand for natural and herbal products in the market. Lately, there have been many cases of honey adulteration with modifi ed syrup. How do you ensure the purity of your honey? What technologies are being employed? Undoubtedly, honey adulteration is a pervasive issue that has persisted for a signifi cant period. Nevertheless, we have adopted the latest technologies to tackle this problem. In addition to this, we have established long-standing associations with certifi ed bee farms and traders for over 30 years, who consistently provide us with high-quality honey. Regular inspections of our honey supplies are conducted in international labs to ensure their purity and safety. We take great pride in maintaining the authenticity of our products and ensuring that our customers receive the fi nest quality honey. We furnish our customers with comprehensive information concerning our honey, including its source, Anjenay Agarwal, Founder and Director, Royal Bee Natural Products “The Ayush department has been playing a vital role in promoting the herbal industry” The honey market in India achieved a signifi cant milestone, reaching Rs 23.3 billion in 2022. Looking ahead, the market is projected to expand further and reach Rs 38.8 billion by 2028, showcasing a notable growth rate of 8.4 per cent during 2023-28. With a diverse range of players in the Indian honey market, Royal Bee Natural Products Pvt Ltd, a Ghaziabad- based company stands as one of the key contributors. Anjenay Agarwal, Founder and Director of Royal Bee Natural Products Pvt. Ltd, sheds light on the company’s honey business and its verticals in natural and Ayurveda products, in an interview with nuFFooDS Spectrum. Here are the edited excerpts:
38 SPEAKING WITH NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | June 2023 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in testing results, and certifi cations. We will continue to invest in the latest technologies and adhere to best practices to maintain the highest standards of quality and purity for our honey. What are the main challenges faced by the beekeeping industry and how do they aff ect the honey business? At Royal Bee Natural Products, we acknowledge the challenges confronting the beekeeping industry, such as climate change, habitat loss, pests and diseases, pesticide usage, and other factors that impede bee health and productivity. We are dedicated to promoting sustainable and organic beekeeping practices to mitigate these challenges and ensure the long-term vitality and well-being of our bee colonies. We collaborate closely with our beekeeping partners, providing them with the necessary resources and support to eff ectively implement these practices. Additionally, we invest in res earch and development to improve bee health and productivity, and we use the latest technologies for honey processing and storage to uphold the quality and purity of our products. Unfortunately, the beekeeping industry continues to grapple with various challenges, including the impact of genetically modifi ed (GM) crops and pesticide use on bee populations, unpredictable weather patterns that impact honey production and prices, and the spread of pests and diseases that can weaken and decimate bee colonies. We are actively monitoring these challenges and collaborating with our partners to develop eff ective strategies to address them. As your company specialises in herb-based products, how do you address supply chain challenges related to herbs and honey? We take a holistic approach to managing our supply chain-related challenges, from working closely with our suppliers to investing in advanced technologies for product testing and quality control. To ensure that our suppliers adhere to our rigorous quality standards and ethical sourcing practices, we conduct regular audits and inspections throughout our supply chain. This proactive approach allows us to identify and resolve potential risks or issues before they escalate. In addition to supplier management, we invest in advanced technologies for product testing and quality control. We use techniques like HPLC and GC-MS analysis to detect and quantify any impurities or contaminants present in our herb-based products. We also use techniques like microfi ltration and pasteurisation to ensure that our honey is devoid of harmful bacteria or microorganisms. Finally, we prioritise transparency and traceability in our supply chain. Our herb-based products and honey are sourced from certifi ed bee farms and traders, who have been trusted partners of our company for the past 30 years, ensuring a consistent supply of high-quality products. Moreover, we subject our supplies to testing in international labs to ensure the quality of our honey. What are your views on FSSAI’s support of the herbal industry, and what suggestions do you have for food regulators? We wholeheartedly acknowledge the crucial role played by the Indian government. In particular, the Ayush department has been playing a vital role in promoting the herbal industry. While we have not specifi cally observed extensive support from FSSAI for the herbal industry, we appreciate their endeavours to ensure the safety and quality of all food products in India. As the herbal industry continues to expand, it is imperative to prioritise transparency, quality, and safety. We recommend that food regulators establish stringent testing and certifi cation requirements for herbal products, while simultaneously educating consumers and businesses about the benefi ts and risks associated with herbal remedies. We believe that by working together with regulators and industry leaders, we can continue to grow and transform the herbal industry. What are your future plans regarding product development, expansion, and international business? At Royal Bee Natural Products, we're focused on developing new herbal formulations and expanding our product portfolio into personal care and wellness categories. We're also planning to establish a pan-India presence through distributors and retail outlets, as well as seeking international expansion opportunities. To ensure the quality and purity of our products, we're investing in cutting-edge technology and research. This year, we're collaborating with international companies to expand production to two to three countries and setting up a sales offi ce for the Middle East, where our products have been successful. We're also venturing into the West African region and exploring opportunities to supply our products to Southeast Asia from our existing factory. By staying committed to quality and innovation, we believe we can continue to grow our business and consolidate our position as a leading player in the natural products industry. Mansi Jamsudkar (m [email protected])
NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | June 2023 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in SPEAKING WITH 39 Superfoods Valley has recently launched Good Monk, a nutrition mix, and What’s Your NIQ (WNIQ), a personalised food recommendation app. Could you provide us with an update on these recent developments? Superfoods Valley is a Nutrition and Food-Tech Company, working towards "Making Nutrition Easy". Our mission is to raise awareness about health, food, and nutrition gaps and off er unique product solutions to address micro-nutrient defi ciencies. We have introduced two innovative products. Good Monk is a blend of highly bioavailable ingredients, including 130 Cr. Probiotics & Fibre, Lysine (a protein building block), Vit A, B6, B9, B12, C, D, Iron, Zinc, Ashwagandha, and Brahmi. This combination of 13 NutriHerbs improves gut health, boosts immunity, provides energy, and supports mental development. The ‘No Colour, Smell and Taste’ feature of the product makes it easy for mothers to smuggle nutrition into their family’s food. What’s Your NIQ (WNIQ) is India’s fi rst personalised Food Recommendation app, designed to help Indian consumers make smarter food choices. It enables users to assess the nutritive value of commonly purchased and consumed foods by considering the nutrition Amarpreet Singh Anand, Founder and CEO, Superfoods Valley “Government and private sector can come together to make nutrition a top priority” With a signifi cant portion of the urban population grappling with lifestyle diseases such as high cholesterol, diabetes, high blood pressure, and vitamin defi ciencies, the importance of making nutrition easy, transparent and accessible to consumers alongside a regulated diet, cannot be overstated. Superfoods Valley, a Bengaluru-based Food & Nutrition Tech startup is dedicated to addressing these nutritional challenges in India through the development of technology and disruptive food product solutions. In a conversation with nuFFOODS Spectrum, Amarpreet Singh Anand, Founder and CEO of Superfoods Valley sheds light on the startup’s recently launched nutrition mix and India’s fi rst personalised food recommendation app. Here are the edited excerpts from the interview: information provided on the packaging. At Superfoods Valley our aim is to bridge the nutrition gap by off ering products and data-backed tech solutions that combat the ongoing endemic of hidden hunger. Our goal is to empower consumers to reinstate the signifi cance of nutrition in today’s food. The company has recently garnered an investment of $1 million. Could you share how this funding will be utilised? Additionally, what is the total investment in the startup, and what revenue are you expecting in FY 22-23? In our country, 8 out of 10 people suff er from micronutrient defi ciencies, and our aim is to address this issue through our products and initiatives. Unfortunately, many individuals do not take proactive steps to solve this problem, leading to numerous health issues among both children and adults. Superfoods Valley has recently secured a $1 million investment from Multiply Ventures, in addition to the support from distinguished angel investors, prominent CEOs, and creative minds. Supporting Superfoods Valley in its pursuit of wholesome nutrition is a cohort of scientifi c councils including renowned names such as Dr PR Krishnaswamy, the former director and founder of the Protein Foods
40 SPEAKING WITH NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | June 2023 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in and Nutrition Development Association of India, Dr B Sesikeran, the former director of the National Institute of Nutrition, Mallika Janakiraman, the founder of nutriQ360 Degrees, Sheela Krishnaswamy, a nutrition and wellness consultant and former President of the Indian Dietetic Association (IDA), and Dr Shovan Ganguli, an R&D expert with over 30 years of experience. This investment will enable us to expand our product line and further our mission of providing easy and accessible nutrition to Indian households. How many people are currently on your team? Are you planning to hire more staff , and in which areas of expertise? We have a diverse pool of talent from research, manufacturing, nutrition experts, technology, marketing and sales teams. Moving forward, we intend to expand our teams specifi cally in the technology, research and nutrition fi elds. This expansion will ensure that our customers have access to the best-in-class nutrition products that cater to the evolving lifestyle needs of modern Indian families. What are your major expansion plans for 2023? In our country, hidden hunger is a signifi cant issue, as many individuals suff er from a defi ciency of essential micronutrients, without even realising it or taking steps to address it. At Good Monk, we perceive this challenge as an opportunity to create awareness about Hidden Hunger and promote preventive measures. Our product is unique combining 13 nutri-herbs that have shown promising results in improving gut health, boosting immunity, increasing energy levels, and supporting mental development. Our focus for 2023 is to build awareness about our product and drive its adoption among consumers. Do you have your own R&D and manufacturing facilities? Could you tell us how your products are developed? Superfoods Valley has a robust R&D and manufacturing team. Our products are scientifi cally formulated for Indian families, considering the key nutrition defi ciencies observed across Indian households based on the Comprehensive National Nutrition (CNNS) Survey conducted from 2016 to 2018. Our patentpending product, Good Monk, is a unique combination of probiotics, lysine, essential vitamins, minerals and herbs that off er multiple health benefi ts. We also utilise clinically proven ingredients, including unique Probiotic-Bacillus Coagulans strains that are heat-stable and can survive the acidic environment of the stomach, providing better digestive balance. To ensure safety and eff ectiveness, all our ingredients undergo over 150 quality checks. What are the current challenges faced by your food supplement startup? One of the most common challenges faced by players in this segment is the lack of awareness. Despite the growing interest in health and nutrition, there is still a signifi cant lack of awareness among Indian consumers regarding the benefi ts of good nutrition. Many families in India still do not know what hidden hunger is, and how it can aff ect their loved ones. However, we view this as an opportunity to educate and promote nutrition and health in the easiest form for our consumers by making nutrition easy through our fl agship product, Good Monk. What suggestions do you have for new entrants in a similar fi eld? Building a team that shares the same passion and vision can make the journey easier and more enjoyable for companies that have just entered the market. We recommend fi nding like-minded partners. Additionally, adaptability is a crucial skill in a world that is constantly evolving in terms of technology and globalisation. Being fl exible and open to constant learning is essential. Lastly, prioritising food safety is of utmost importance in the food industry, so maintaining proper hygiene and quality standards is crucial. How do you plan to address the problem of hidden hunger in India? What are your expectations from the government? As a food tech company, we have collaborated with nutrition and wellness experts to support nutritional transparency and address the issue of hidden hunger. We aim to educate our consumers and help them take steps to tackle this problem. We are confi dent that our products, Good Monk, and What’s your NIQ app, will signifi cantly assist people in taking appropriate actions. The government is taking positive steps to promote best practices for health and nutrition in households across the country. We believe that the COVID-19 pandemic has only made us more cautious and stronger. We appreciate the government’s initiatives such as food fortifi cation, and front-of-pack product labelling, as well as programmes like Poshan Abhiyaan and Fit India. These eff orts align with our mission of solving hidden hunger. We look forward to the government’s support and potential collaboration, where the government and private sector can work together to make nutrition a top priority in every Indian household. Mansi Jamsudkar (mansi.jamsu [email protected])
NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | June 2023 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in EVENT REPORT 41 T he state of Telangana received an investment worth Rs 7,218 crore at the Food Conclave 2023, with the potential to generate 58,458 direct job opportunities in the agri-food industry. K T Rama Rao, Minister for Industries and Commerce, Government of Telangana, announced that 27 MoUs were signed between the Telangana Government and agri-food companies during the event. The First Food Conclave 2023, organised by the state government of Telangana, on April 28-29, 2023, was attended by key fi gures such as S Niranjan Reddy, Minister of Agriculture, T Srinivas Yadav, Minister of Animal Husbandry and Fisheries, Prof. Ramesh Chand, Member, NITI Aayog, Dr R S Sodhi, President of Indian Dairy Association and Dr M Vijay Gupta, former Assistant Director General, World Fish Center. In his address, KT Rama Rao emphasised the state’s focus on food processing as a core thrust area and highlighted the addition of over Rs 7,000 crore worth of fi xed capital base to food processing capacities in the past fi ve years. To further boost the food processing sector, the state is developing Special Food Processing Zones that will cover more than 10,000 acres. The conclave resulted in over Rs 7000 crore investment commitments across sectors such as Aqua, Dairy, Agro Processing, and allied sectors creating a total of 58,458 direct employment opportunities. “Telangana’s industry-friendly policies, robust and fast-growing raw material base, world-class industrial infrastructure, and active facilitation provided by the state government make it the most favourable destination at this point in time,” stated Rama Rao. “Not only is Telangana revolutionising production, but it is also creating an ecosystem to nurture a talented workforce for the benefi t of industries.” Paddy production in the state has seen a remarkable increase from 68 lakh metric tonnes (LMT) to 268 LMT. Telangana’s cotton has also been recognised as the best by the industry. Rama Rao highlighted the turnaround of Vijaya Dairy, the government dairy unit, which was in losses before the current government took offi ce. In recent years, Vijaya Dairy has paid a dividend of Rs 30 crore back to the government. This success story exemplifi es the progress of Telangana, added the minister. During the event, Rama Rao launched the Innovation in Food Processing Grand Challenge, inviting startups and innovators from Telangana and across India to The Food Conclave 2023 K T Ram Rao, Minister for Industries and Commerce, government of Telangana along with other dignitaries and investors who signed 27 MoUs at the Food Conclave 2023 held on April 29, 2023 in Hyderabad. Telangana receives Rs 7218 Cr investments in agri-food industry
42 EVENT REPORT NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | June 2023 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in develop solutions for enhancing local food processing. The Food Conclave will now become an annual event. The inauguration was followed by a panel discussion on ‘Envisioning India’s Decade in the Agri-Food Sector,’ featuring esteemed participants including Prof. Ramesh Chand, Member, NITI Aayog, Dr RS Sodhi, President of the Indian Dairy Association; Dr Vijay Gupta, World Food Prize Laureate and Former ADG of World Fish Center, Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR) and S Sivakumar, CEO, Agri Business, ITC. During the panel discussion, the participants highlighted the importance of addressing climate change, improving the supply chain, and recognising the immense potential of food processing in the future. Prof. Ramesh Chand, emphasised the need for increased investment in production agriculture, stating that the agriculture sector in India requires eff ective policy implementation. He also pointed out that corporate investment in the agri sector remains low, with only 0.3 per cent of corporate companies investing in this sector. Another concern raised was the issue of irrigation effi ciency, as only 53 per cent of agricultural land in India is currently under irrigation. Dr Vijay Gupta shed light on the neglected fi sheries and aquaculture sector in India, stating that although the country’s fi sheries production stands at 17 million tonnes, there is the potential for much higher production. He emphasised the importance of improving the domestic market to foster the development of fi sheries and aquaculture. Dr RS Sodhi, addressing the dairy industry, highlighted its signifi cant growth over the years. Stating that India’s contribution to global milk production has increased from 14 per cent to 40 per cent, he said “it is projected to reach 60 per cent in the next 25 years.” He expressed concerns about zero-duty imports of dairy products, noting that such imports would not be viable. He explained that foreign dairies aim to dump products at lower prices, which could harm local farmers and their market prospects. The event featured fi ve thematic tracks, each representing a specifi c industry sector: Agriculture (green), edible oil (yellow), dairy (white), meat and poultry (pink) and aquaculture (blue). The Green Revolution track delved into important questions such as India’s potential to become the food bowl for the world while ensuring its own food security, recalibrating market-linked production, and managing macro–risks related to climate change, war, disease, trade embargoes and more. In the Yellow Revolution track, the focus shifted to realising self-suffi ciency for edible oils in India, discussing sustainability and responsibility in edible oil production, exploring the relationship between edible oil and health, and navigating the dynamic global policy environment. The Pink Revolution track, engaged panellists in addressing key questions such as formalising the Indian meat value chain, exploring challenges and opportunities, understanding the role of the meat industry as a driver for a circular rural economy, making the Indian poultry and meat industry globally competitive, and managing macro risks for the meat sector, including pandemics, biosecurity, and climate change. The Blue R evolution track centred around the Aquaculture sector, exploring topics such as building domestic demand for blue foods in India, considering aquaculture as a viable alternative to agriculture, and envisioning India’s potential for a signifi cant moment in the aquaculture sector, similar to the success of Amul in the dairy sector. Lastly, the White Revolution track focused on the Dairy industry addressing issues related to moving the Indian Dairy Industry up the value chain, enhancing competitiveness, adopting a One Health approach to prevent, detect, and manage biological risks, and exploring the role of dairy technology in the next decade. The conclave was attended by industry leaders and experts from the agriculture and food industry. Over 100 representatives from the agri-food industry participated in discussions on investment in ‘agriculture production and policymaking to build production and growth.’ Shraddha Warde [email protected] Investment commitments to Telangana The palm oil sector attracted the most commitments, with nine out of 27 companies announcing plans to set up palm oil processing units in Telangana. TS Oil Fed will invest Rs 1,055 crore, creating 14,600 job opportunities, while Patanjali Foods Limited will invest Rs 1,050 crore, generating 2,900 jobs. Other signifi cant investments include Rs 829 crore from Varun Beverages and Four Zero LLP, Rs 550 crore from Jurala Organic Farms, Rs 251 crore from Vivek Bio, and Rs 325 crore from Modi Naturals Ltd. Various other companies including Masqati Dairy Products, Heritage Foods, Suguna Foods, Almond House and Wow Momo Foods, are also investing in the state, ranging from beverage manufacturing units to snacks, ethanol, rice mills, and maize processing units.
NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | June 2023 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in R&D NEWS 43 Study evaluates effectiveness of cranberries in preventing UTIs A comprehensive study evaluating the effi cacy of cranberries in preventing urinary tract infections (UTIs), has found that cranberry products containing proanthocyanidins (PACs) can reduce UTI occurrence in specifi c groups. The study which analysed 50 randomised controlled trials (RCTs) involving 8,857 participants, revealed that cranberries hinder bacteria from adhering to bladder walls. Women with recurrent UTIs, children with UTIs, and individuals at risk of UTIs following bladder interventions, such as bladder radiotherapy, showed a decrease in UTIs when consuming cranberry products. While cranberry products are not a substitute for antibiotics or probiotics in treating UTIs, their consumption is on the rise in India as more consumers become aware of their taste and health benefi ts. Scientists explore use of coff ee & wine-based treatment for rheumatoid arthritis Researchers from the Institute of Nano Science and Technology (INST), Mohali, a Department of Science and Technology, autonomous institute, have discovered a promising potential treatment for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) using a newly synthesised biocompatible therapeutic nanomicelle drug delivery system combined with anti-infl ammatory drugs. The innovative approach aims to alleviate pain associated with the disease and restore cartilage integrity which provides the fl exibility to the bone. This could potentially off er both symptomatic relief and a cure for the disease. The study focused on exploring the therapeutic properties of 9-aminoacridine (9AA), an FDA-approved anti-infl ammatory drug and caff eic acid (CA), a natural compound found in coff ee and wine known for its anti-arthritic potential. By conjugating these compounds to nano micelles, which form spherical structures when immersed in water, the scientists created a targeted treatment approach for RA. Rheumatoid arthritis is characterised by infl ammation, and current treatment strategies primarily aim to provide pain relief rather than a permanent cure. While methotrexate (MTX) is considered the gold standard therapy, its severe side eff ects have led researchers to seek alternate drugs or strategies for managing the disease. A recent study by Meyer Vitabiotics, the Indian subsidiary of UK-based vitamin company Vitabiotics, has demonstrated that a combination of antioxidants, micronutrients, and vitamins can signifi cantly enhance male fertility, by upto 76 per cent, even in severe cases of infertility. The study focused on Indian males with a baseline sperm count of less than 5 million/ml and found that a blend of multivitamins, minerals, essential amino acids, ginseng and lycopene increased sperm count by an impressive 75.76 per cent. Over a 3-month period, the study observed 300 Indian males with varying types and degrees of infertility. The results, published in the International Journal “Translational and Clinical Pharmacology,” provide signifi cant support for the use of multiple micronutrient therapy, an area often overlooked in India. Antioxidants are commonly prescribed to improve semen parameters and DNA Fragmentation Index (DFI), with the aim of enhancing the chances of conception. Frequently recommended compounds include vitamins E & C, carnitine, N-acetyl cysteine, selenium, and zinc. The intervention in this study involved a single tablet of Oligocare Forte Plus (known as Wellman Conception in the UK), which combines essential micronutrients, amino acids, antioxidants, and vitamins crucial for male reproductive health. The study, conducted with meticulous adherence to good clinical practices (GCP) and relevant regulations and guidelines, showcased highly promising results among the 300 eligible participants. It represents a signifi cant multicentric trial in the sub-fertile male population, shedding light on the potential benefi ts of micronutrient and antioxidant therapy for male infertility. Study shows micronutrients and antioxidants boost male fertility by 76%
44 PEOPLE NEWS Mumbai-based FMCG company, Marico has reappointed Saugata Gupta as the Managing Director (MD) and Chief Executive Offi cer (CEO) for a two-year term. Gupta who joined Marico in 2004, has held various leadership positions within the organisation, including Head of Marketing, CEO of India Business in 2007 and MD in 2014. As a dynamic leader, Gupta has been instrumental in driving Marico’s growth and expanding its national and international presence. He has steered the company towards sustainable development and best-in-class governance, making it a high-performing business. Under his guidance, Marico has expanded its operations to 25 countries across emerging markets in Asia and Africa. During his tenure, Marico’s achieved a market capitalisation exceeding $8 billion in 2021 and recorded a turnover of over $1 billion in FY20-21. Gupta’s performance-oriented approach, and focus on consistent profi table growth have positioned Marico as a future-ready organisation, committed to both fi nancial success and societal value creation. Prior to joining Marico, Gupta gained valuable experience at Cadbury (now Mondelez) where he spent 9 years in various sales and marketing roles in India and the United Kingdom. Marico re-appoints Saugata Gupta as MD and CEO Mondelez appoints Samir Jain as President of India biz Samir Jain has been appointed as the President of India Business at US-based multinational company, Mondelez International. He will be taking over from Deepak Iyer, who has been promoted to the role of EVP and President of the AMEA region, eff ective from early June. Jain was previously the Chief Executive Offi cer (CEO) and Managing Director (MD) of Bunge for the past decade. Starting this August, he will report to Iyer and represent India as part of Mondelez’s AMEA Leadership Team. Prior to his role at Bunge, Jain spent nearly two decades with Hindustan Unilever, where he worked across various categories and functions in the consumer goods business. In 2012, he became the VicePresident of the laundry category and later served as the global fi nance director for Unilever’s hair category in the UK. Mondelez elevates India head Deepak Iyer to lead AMEA biz American multinational company, Mondelez International, has promoted Deepak Iyer, the current India & Southeast Asia head, to the position of Executive Vice President and President for Asia Pacifi c, Middle East and Africa (AMEA). In his new role, eff ective from June 5, Iyer will oversee Mondelez’s $6.8 billion AMEA business across more than 70 countries, managing renowned brands such as Oreo, Cadbury Chocolate, belVita biscuits, and Kinh Do cakes. He will succeed Maurizio Brusadelli at AMEA, who is departing the company in June to pursue external leadership opportunities. Iyer brings extensive experience from his previous leadership roles. Prior to joining Mondelez India Foods, Iyer was the CEO and Managing Director of Bharti AXA General Insurance Company. He has also served as the CEO and Managing Director of Indian Subcontinent at Wrigley India. Iyer was earlier with PepsiCo Inc. for 17 years and has worked across several roles in India, South Asia, and Africa. He has also worked for Marico Industries, Coats Viyella India and Tata Telecom. NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | June 2023 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in
PEOPLE NEWS 45 Amit Jatia, previously the Vice Chairman of Westlife Foodworld, has been appointed as the Chairperson of the company, which owns and operates McDonald's restaurants in West and South India. In conjunction with this transition, Smita Jatia will assume the role of Vice Chairperson. As Chairperson, Amit Jatia will be responsible for guiding the company in navigating the dynamic global business landscape, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and excellence across all aspects of the business. Amit Jatia is widely recognised as a pioneer of the Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) industry in India. He played a key role in establishing McDonald's in India in 1996 and has been an integral part of the QSR industry for over 26 years. Under his leadership, McDonald's India (West & South) has expanded its presence to over 357 restaurants, introduced the inhouse specialty coff ee chain McCafé, and transformed into a successful food tech company. He attributes a great part of his success to his participation in the Harvard YPO President’s Programme in 2011 and 2013 and has been a member of YPO for over a decade. Westlife Foodworld elevates Amit Jatia as Chairperson Zomato shuffles Leadership team : Rakesh Ranjan is CEO, Rinshul Chandra is COO Zomato, the online food delivery platform, has announced important changes to its senior leadership team. Rakesh Ranjan has been appointed as the Chief Executive Offi cer (CEO) of its food ordering and delivery business, while Rinshul Chandra has been named the Chief Operating Offi cer (COO), of the same division. Rakesh Ranjan previously served as the business head of the new ventures at Zomato, while Rinshul Chandra held the position of vice president of product at the company. Ranjan has extensive experience as the Chief Sales Offi cer, leading sales and strategy for online ordering across 500+ cities and driving overall revenue through platform monetisation, using ads and new product initiatives. Both Ranjan and Chandra have been part of the Zomato team for over fi ve years, contributing in various capacities. These appointments refl ect the company’s desire to bring fresh perspectives and drive the evolution of its business. Danone to renew Board of Directors with proposed appointment of Sanjiv Mehta Danone, the French multinational company, has announced the proposed appointment of Sanjiv Mehta as an independent member of its Board of Directors. If approved, Mehta will join the Board on July 1, 2023, completing the full renewal of the Board. Mehta currently serves as the Chief Executive Offi cer (CEO) and Managing Director (MD) of Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL), a position he will relinquish on June 26, 2023. With extensive experience in the consumer goods sector and a strong international background, particularly in Asian markets, Mehta brings valuable expertise to the role. He assumed the role of CEO and MD of Hindustan Unilever in October 2013, and was appointed chairman in June 2018. He also serves as the cluster president of Unilever's business in South Asia, overseeing operations in India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Nepal. NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | June 2023 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in Rakesh Ranjan Rinshul Chandra
46 INGREDIENT NEWS US-based Cargill’s salt business has entered into an agreement with Poland’s CIECH Group, a leading supplier of evaporated salt products. Cargill will combine CIECH’s food-grade evaporated salts with its own specialty food salts, including Alberger, Premier, Microsised, and Potassium Pro, further enriching its European portfolio. By leveraging CIECH’s facilities in Janikowo, Poland, and Stassfurt, Germany, Cargill will now off er a comprehensive range of specialty and evaporated food salt solutions to food manufacturers across Europe. The collaboration enhances Cargill’s existing food ingredients portfolio, which encompasses various products such as edible fats & oils, starches, sweeteners, plant proteins, texturisers, and cocoa & chocolate, strengthening their commitment to supporting customers with salt products and sodium-reduction solutions. Azelis, a leading global innovation service provider in the specialty chemicals and food ingredients industry, has entered into an agreement to acquire Gillco Ingredients, a prominent specialty ingredient provider in the food & nutrition market in the USA The strategic acquisition marks Azelis’ expansion into the lucrative food & nutrition market in the US, strengthening its presence in the life sciences sector. By integrating Gillco’s off erings with Azelis’ existing fl avours & fragrances portfolio, the company will create a compelling product range and execute its growth strategy in the US food and nutrition industry, as well as the broader life sciences market in North America. Founded in 1982, Gillco has 40 highly skilled and experienced employees serving almost 1,000 customers from its headquarters in San Marcos, California. As part of the acquisition, all of Gillco’s employees, including owner Bill Gillies, will transition to Azelis, ensuring a seamless integration process. The transaction is expected to be fi nalised in the second quarter of 2023, subject to customary closing conditions. Azelis acquires Gillco Ingredients for expansion into American food & nutrition market Cargill inks agreement with CIECH, adding food-grade salt to European portfolio Novozymes’ Novamyl BestBite extends freshness, shelf-life of baked goods The use of Novamyl in baking has helped save more than 80 billion loaves of bread for over three decades, since 1990. Now, Novozymes takes a signifi cant leap forward with the latest addition to the Novamyl family: Novamyl BestBite. The newest Novamyl baking product from Danish company Novozymes, called Novamyl BestBite, has been specifi cally developed to prioritise texture in baking while delivering remarkable enhancements in freshness. By improving shelf-life and reducing food waste, Novamyl BestBite sets a new standard in baking. With the introduction of this innovative biosolution, Novamyl BestBite builds upon the success of its predecessors but with a stronger emphasis on achieving a fresh texture and optimising recipes. This enables producers to reduce their reliance on added sugars in their baked products. When incorporated into the baking process, Novamyl BestBite creates baked goods that surpass ordinary freshness, extending the shelf-life of the product, without compromising the consumer’s eating experience. NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | June 2023 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in
INGREDIENT NEWS 47 Roquette, a renowned French company specialising in plantbased ingredients and a leading provider of pharmaceutical and nutraceutical excipients, has announced the launch of its latest excipient innovation – PEARLITOL ProTec. A unique, plant-based blend combines mannitol and maize starch, off ering exceptional protection and stabilisation for moisture-sensitive active ingredients like probiotics. By using PEARLITOL ProTec, manufacturers can extend the shelf life of their products, achieve improved consistency and explore a wider range of consumerfriendly dosage formats. The probiotic supplement market is experiencing a signifi cant resurgence, particularly in Europe where regulations governing the use of the term “probiotic” on packaging and in sales communications have become more lenient since 2018, sparking increased consumer interest. Health-conscious consumers are seeking greater variety in probiotic supplements, presenting challenges for manufacturers. To address these processing obstacles and cater to evolving consumer preferences, Roquette has developed PEARLITOL ProTec. This pioneering plantbased excipient not only delivers unparalleled stabilisation properties, but also enhances the organoleptic characteristics of the fi nal product. NewFish, a New Zealand-based company, has entered into a codevelopment partnership with Chicago-based Socius Ingredients, to commercialise microalgae proteins and specialised ingredients targeting the active nutrition market in the USA. The active and sports nutrition market in the United States is experiencing robust growth, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of over 8 per cent and sales surpassing $25 billion in 2023. While some plant-based proteins are present, the majority of the market still relies on animal-derived sources such as dairy, eggs and meat. Key product applications include powders, bars, beverages and gummies. During the 2023 Annual Dairy Products Industry Conference in Chicago, NewFish and Socius Ingredients forged a protein partnership to co-develop specialised nutrition and functional ingredients using microalgae. Socius Ingredients is a specialist protein and food solutions company with over 20 years of success in the dairy, food and protein manufacturing industry. The collaboration combines New Zealand’s protein expertise and microalgae technology with Socius Ingredients’ experience, bringing it to the USA. Pilot trials are already underway and both companies aim to achieve high-purity algae protein concentrates by October 2023. Royal Buisman has reached a defi nitive agreement to be acquired by Nactarome. This transaction follows the separation of Royal Buisman from its parent company, Prinsen Berning, which is a portfolio company of Bencis Capital Partners. By acquiring Royal Buisman, Nactarome expands its range of natural ingredients for speciality products. Based in Zwartsluis, The Netherlands, Royal Buisman is a well-established manufacturer of natural caramelised ingredients for the food and beverage industry. With 150 years of knowledge and expertise in caramelised sugars, Royal Buisman specialises in producing 100 per cent pure and natural caramel ingredients for B2B food and beverage producers. In 2016, Royal Buisman was acquired by Prinsen Berning, a group under the ultimate control of Bencis Capital Partners. While the coff ee powder business of Royal Buisman was integrated into the group, the production of natural caramelised ingredients in Zwartsluis remained an independent subsidiary. Nactarome acquires natural caramel ingredients supplier, Royal Buisman NewFish & Socius Ingredients to develop algae proteins for US market Roquette launches new excipient for stability of probiotic supplements NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | June 2023 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in
Ireland-based packaging company, Smurfi t Kappa has completed its latest investment project in Poland, resulting in a substantial expansion of its Pruszków corrugated plant. The expansion positions the plant as Smurfi t Kappa’s largest facility in Poland and one of the most advanced and modern technologically sophisticated packaging plants in Europe. The upgraded plant incorporates state-of-the-art machinery, and the expansion is expected to generate an additional 50 jobs, bringing the total employment at the location to over 250 staff members. These new positions will enable the plant to better serve its customer portfolio, which includes renowned brands in the FMCG (Fast-Moving Consumer Goods) food and beverage sectors, catering to both local and international clients. The investment in Poland includes the installation of a new cutting-edge corrugator and a range of ultra-modern converting machinery. The plant has also been equipped with a new fi nished goods warehouse, which can accommodate more than 12,000 pallets. As a result of this investment, the annual production capacity of the plant will increase to 500 million boxes and the expanded facility now spans an impressive 37,500 square metres. Smurfi t Kappa invests €40M to expand hightech packaging plant in Poland GEA, a leading engineering group, has announced plans to invest approximately EUR 50 million in the modernisation of its German centrifuge production facilities in Oelde (North Rhine-Westphalia) and Niederahr (Rhineland-Palatinate) by the end of 2024. This strategic investment, revealed during an event marking the 130th anniversary of GEA separation technology at its Oelde site, aims to drive further growth in its key markets such as the food, beverage and pharmaceutical industries through sustainable production, digitalisation and automation initiatives. GEA’s centrifuges fi nd applications in over 3,500 diff erent processes across a wide range of industries. Key growth drivers include the rising demand for dairy products and the expanding market for alternative protein production. The investment package for the centrifuge plants is centred around four core pillars: sustainability, digitalisation, automation, and modern manufacturing technologies. GEA to invest €50 M to upgrade German centrifuge production facilities Bengaluru-based Manjushree Packtek, a leading packaging solutions company, has announced its acquisition of Jallan Polypack, a prominent player in the sustainable paper cups packaging segment in India. The strategic move is set to strengthen Manjushree’s presence in the paper and delivery packaging solutions market, leveraging advanced research and technology. Following the acquisition, Manjushree Packtek has relocated to a state-of-the-art facility in Bengaluru. The products are manufactured in a Class 100,000 cleanroom facility, catering to the food industry. The production process is highly automated, ensuring minimal human intervention. The facility is also equipped with custom printing technologies that use food-grade ink for odourless and safe products. The quality lab adheres to global testing and qualifi cation standards. Manjushree Packtek also plans to set up an R&D centre dedicated to developing aff ordable eco-friendly solutions, including coating options such as bio-polymers and water solvent solutions. The company aims to explore new designs and shapes for paper cups and containers, meeting the evolving needs of the market. Manjushree buys Jallan Polypack to boost sustainable paper container industry 48 ACADEMIC NEWS NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | March 2021 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in SUPPLIER NEWS NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | June 2023 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in
SUPPLIER NEWS 49 Switzerland-based Amcor, a global provider of responsible packaging solutions, has signed a defi nitive agreement to purchase New Zealandbased Moda Systems, a leading manufacturer of advanced, automated protein packaging machines. This strategic acquisition will enhance Amcor’s capabilities in fi lm production and enable the company to off er a comprehensive packaging solution that encompasses primary packaging, equipment, on-site technical service, and parts. Moda Systems specialises in the design, assembly, and support of innovative high-performance modular vacuum packaging solutions for the meat, poultry, and dairy industries. Their state-of-the-art rotary vacuum system delivers operational effi ciencies for protein producers, by optimising labour, enhancing safety measures, and reducing waste. The system is user-friendly, easy to connect, operate, maintain, and clean, leading to improved throughput and product quality. Combined with Amcor’s existing range of meat, poultry, seafood, and cheese shrink packaging options, the acquisition will provide an end-to-end packaging solution that addresses the specifi c needs of protein producers. Amcor aims to deliver enhanced value to its customers and further strengthen its position in the market. Amcor to expand fresh protein packaging solution by acquiring Moda systems Mettler-Toledo, headquartered in the US, has unveiled the X2 Series, a new line of high-performing x-ray systems designed to elevate product safety at an aff ordable price point for food manufacturers. The X2 Series off ers two x-ray systems, making x-ray inspection accessible to all budgets and providing manufacturers with durable and superior-performing software. The innovative design of the X2 Series not only enhances brand protection and product safety but also improves product quality. It assists manufacturers in meeting food safety compliance requirements while boosting productivity through its outstanding reliability and intelligent industrial design. With exceptional contamination detection capabilities that surpass metal detection alone, the X2 Series helps prevent product recalls. The advanced x-ray inspection technology can detect a wide range of contaminants, including glass, metal, mineral stones, calcifi ed bone, dense plastic and rubber compounds. It performs various quality control and integrity checks simultaneously. The X2 Series off ers signifi cant benefi ts for both inline and at end-of-line inspection, employing innovative technology for optimal performance and output. Mettler-Toledo introduces x-ray inspection for food safety US-based Neogen Corporation has launched two new assays for the detection of natural toxins, Reveal Q+ for DON EndPoint and Reveal Q+ for Afl atoxin EndPoint. The Reveal Q+ EndPoint assays are rapid and user-friendly quantitative lateral fl ow tests that deliver accurate results within minutes. Designed to be used with Neogen's Raptor Solo Platform, these assays are ideal for situations that require increased workfl ow output. Both tests have obtained a Federal Grain Inspection Service (FGIS) Certifi cate of Compliance for corn and wheat commodities, ensuring that they meet all the design and performance standards set by the USDA-FGIS and can be used for offi cial inspections. Reveal Q+ for DON EndPoint is specifi cally designed to detect deoxynivalenol (DON), a toxin produced by fungi found on grain and grain products. It provides precise results ranging from 0.3 to 30 parts-per-million (ppm) in just three minutes. Similarly, Reveal Q+ for Afl atoxin EndPoint is capable of detecting afl atoxin, a toxic and carcinogenic substance produced by certain strains of mould in corn. This assay delivers accurate results from 4 to 100 parts-per-billion (ppb) in a short time of six minutes. Neogen launches rapid natural toxin detection tests NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | June 2023 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in
Under the aegis of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav, the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Government of India, in collaboration with the Agriculture Production Department, Government of Jammu and Kashmir, celebrated World Milk Day on June 1, an occasion to celebrate and acknowledge the contributions of our dairy farmers especially women whose contributions have made India the top milk producer in the world, in Srinagar. World Milk Day was established by the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) in 2001 to recognise the importance of milk as a global food and to celebrate the dairy sector. Each year since, the benefi ts of milk and dairy products have been actively promoted around the world, including how dairy supports the livelihoods of one billion people. In 2023, World Milk Day will focus on showcasing how dairy is reducing its environmental footprint, while also providing nutritious foods and livelihoods. The FAO, in its report dated April 25, 2023 noted that milk along with meat and eggs off ers much-needed nutrients which cannot be easily obtained from plant-based foods. The report pointed out that they provide a range of important macro-nutrients such as protein, fats and carbohydrates and micro-nutrients that are diffi cult to obtain from plant-based foods in the required quality and quantity. The report further observed that the evidence of any links between milk, eggs and poultry consumption in healthy adults and diseases such as coronary heart disease, strokes and hypertension is inconclusive (for milk) or nonsignifi cant (for eggs and poultry). Echoing similar views Cancer Council Australia, Australia’s leading cancer charity, and the only Australian charity working across every aspect of every cancer, from research to prevention and support noted that in terms of cancer risk, the current scientifi c evidence regarding dairy foods is inconclusive. On the other hand, the researchers from Oxford Population Health, Peking University, and the Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, on May 6, 2022 have published the results of a new large-scale study in BMC Medicine. The report says this was the fi rst major study to investigate dairy consumption and cancer risk in Chinese adults that has found that greater intake was associated with higher risks of liver cancer and female breast cancer. Similarly, the researchers at Loma Linda University Health, California in the USA came up with a report on June 8, 2022 noting that men with higher intakes of dairy foods, especially milk, face a signifi cantly higher risk of prostate cancer compared to men with lower intakes. The study found no such associations between increased prostate cancer risk and intake of non-dairy calcium, suggesting substances other than calcium play a role in the risk dairy foods pose for prostate cancer. The researchers at the same university observed in yet another study – ‘Dairy, soy and risk of breast cancer: Those confounded milks’ published in the International Journal of Epidemiology on February 25, 2020 that intake of dairy milk is associated with a greater risk of breast cancer in women. They found that even relatively moderate amounts of dairy milk consumption can increase women’s risk of breast cancer — up to 80 per cent depending on the amount consumed. Cancer Research UK also noted that some studies have found that dairy might increase the risk of breast cancer. Whilst others have found it may decrease breast cancer risk. There is a need for more high-quality studies to understand whether there is a link. Contrary to the above studies it noted that eating and drinking milk and dairy can reduce the risk of bowel cancer. But there is no proof it increases or decreases the risk of any other cancer type. The National Health Service (NHS) Eatwell Guide of the UK recommends having some dairy or dairy alternatives as part of a healthy, balanced diet as milk and dairy are good sources of calcium and protein. Similarly, Cancer Council Australia supports that the proven health benefi ts of dairy foods outweigh the unproven harms as the current evidence that dairy products can protect against cancer or increase the risk of cancer is not conclusive. Hence dairy foods should be eaten as part of a varied and nutritious diet. Narayan Kulkarni Editor [email protected] Is Milk Nutritious or Cancerous? 50 LET’S TALK FOOD NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | June 2023 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in