NuFFooDS Spectrum Dec 2019

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4 EDITORIAL NUFFOODSSPECTRUM | December 2019 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in

Milking out safety plans

Milind Kokje
Chief Editor

When Apple CEO Tim Cook said, “Virtual reality conducted the first ever national milk safety and quality
sort of encloses and immerses the person survey to check safety and quality of the milk being
into an experience that can be really cool”, supplied. The survey, however, showed that 41 per cent
he probably was not aware that what he said about samples fell short of some kind of quality parameters and 7
people will be experimented on animals too. On an per cent samples were unsafe as they posed serious health
animal farm in Moscow, farmers strapped specially hazards. However, it is important to know that at what
modified headsets on cows’ heads giving them a stage the FSSAI took samples as most of the mixing seems
relaxing, pleasant virtual experience. to be happening in transport from the dairy to the shop.

The objective is to increase milk yield and improve Presence of Aflatoxin M1 residues beyond permissible
its quality. The results about milk are not known yet but limits (in 5.7 per cent samples) and antibiotics (in 1.2 per
farmers feel that the cows were less stressed and seem cent samples) and adulteration with vegetable fats and
to be happier to look into VR field as they were actually heavy metal contaminants are major issues along with
trapped into a crowded farm. There is a plan to launch a poor hygiene.
more robust study to see if this results in improvement in
quality and quantity of milk. Now, equipped with the information, FSSAI has
launched 12-point action plan. It is good that FSSAI has
VR goggles have been designed to fit on cow’s head taken an initiative to ensure supply of quality milk to the
and vision. A unique summer field simulation programme consumers.
has been created by VR designers for the cows to watch.
Safety of milk is very essential as its consumption in
The experiment is in tune with the trend of focusing Indian families in different forms is very high. Indians love
on animals’ or plants’ emotional well-being with quality milk and it is an integral part of their diets, ceremonies &
of life improvements. One such experiment was playing festivals. It is very rare that one type of food reaches to so
music in fields to improve yields. However, some doubts many households and such a large number of people are
are being raised on the experiment as being a marketing consuming it in some form. Milk is considered important
gimmick for a conference since the experiment is being because it contains more than 10 vital nutrients and is
done by a magazine and not any research institute. considered as a wholesome food. Its consumption in
Indian families in different forms is very high. The per
When such experiments are being done abroad to capita availability of milk in India during 2017-18 was
explore the possibilities of getting more milk with better 375gms/day.
quality, the problem in India is little different, but serious.
It is how to provide safe milk to the people. Considering the kind of contamination, the FSSAI
will have to target at the fodder and the other things
There had been several complaints from the consumed by the cattle as that appears to be one of the
consumers over the supply of poor milk quality. There sources of contamination. FSSAI has included the issue in
had been news reports of police raids and actions its 12-point improvement programme and planning for
of contaminating milk in transport. Madhay Pradesh capacity building.
government even went to the extent of deciding to
invoke National Security Act (NSA) against malpractices Consumers and the industry hope that all the steps
in milk sector. A year back, a Science & Technology planned will improve the milk quality, otherwise they will
ministry’s survey was quoted to inform 68.7 per cent have to remember the famous Indian proverb “All things
milk and milk product samples were not as per the Food that are white are not milk.”
Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) standards
and 89.2 per cent of products were adulterated in some
form or the other.

Taking note of the growing complaints, FSSAI

New Voice of the Nutraceuticals &
New - Gen Food Indystry in Asia

Volume 7  |  Issue 04  |  December 2019 Production & Design Nutraceuticals Nutritionals
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6 INSIDE NUFFOODSSPECTRUM | December 2019 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in

Cover Story 18

INDUSTRY BANKS ON

TECHNOLOGY FOR MILK SAFETY

In October 2019, Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) released a full report after carrying out a
survey on safety and quality of liquid milk in the country. Although the survey results hint towards demolishing
milk adulteration perception, an in-depth analysis of the report reveals that 1 in 10 packets of milk purchased
by consumers could be unsafe. Hence more is required in the dairy sector in order to address the issue of
milk adulteration at all levels. On a whole, further steps are required to be taken to achieve transparency and
efficiency in the dairy sector of India through public private partnership and best use of technology.

Analysis 25 Analysis 29

Irresponsible Advertising under Scanner India’s sufferings continue on GHI 2019

NUFFOODSSPECTRUM | December 2019 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in INSIDE 7

Special 31 REGULARS
Nutra industry - well-positioned
for next leg of growth Editorial 4

Video Snippets 8

Policy and Regulatory News 09

Finance News 11

Company News 12

Start-Up News 14

World News 16

People News 42

Supplier News 44

R&D News 46

Analysis 33 Academic News 48

Preference for Antibiotic- Technology 39
Free Meat increasing
Technological Transformation
Speaking With 35 of the Food Ecosystem

“F&B segment is an Silky Singh,
extremely difficult segment
to sustain and grow in” CEO & CTO, Ripsey, Mumbai

N Chandramouli,

CEO, TRA Research, Mumbai

Opinion 36 Event Report 40
Indian oncology nutrition
market is a one-sided coin AgroSpectrum debuts at
the 11th AgroVision Summit
Samara Mahindra,
49
CEO & Founder, Carer, Bengaluru
5th edition of International conference on Plant Genetics & Genomics
37
Is gene based diet a “Food and nutritional security in
wholesome solution? 21st century will increasingly
rely on modern genomics”
Manjari Chandra,

Nutrition Consultant, Max Healthcare, New Delhi

8 VIDEO SNIPPETS NUFFOODSSPECTRUM | December 2019 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in

Dr C N Ashwath Acknowledgments
Narayan, Deputy The cover story titled ‘Diabetic Foods- A
Chief Minister and Huge Opportunity’ has come out really well.
Minister for IT, BT Congratulations.
and S&T, Government
of Karnataka shares - Priyanka Sharma, Mumbai
views on the upcoming
World Coffee The article ‘Food Testing market seeks instant
Conference 2020 solutions’ in the November issue looks great. Thank
you for the feature on Equinox Labs.
Scan the QR Code »
- Ritu Sharma, Mumbai
Nayan Kale, Process
Engineer, Tetra Pak Thank you so much for the feature on Dr V Mohan in
India talks about the cover story ‘Diabetic Foods- A Huge Opportunity’
the new sustainable in the November edition.
offerings of the
company in the food - S. Siddharth Samson, Chennai
sector
The coverage on Vitafoods Asia 2019 is excellent
Scan the QR Code » in the November issue of NuFFooDS Spectrum
magazine. Much appreciated.
Dr Chindi
Vasudevappa, VC, - Illka Gobius, Singapore
NIFTEM elaborates on
the current research
taking place at
NIFTEM

Scan the QR Code » 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

Please send your feedback to
[email protected]

NUFFOODSSPECTRUM | December 2019 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in REGULATORY NEWS 9

FSSAI FSSAI announces ban
on junk food in schools
introduces Food
With an aim of like colas, chips, instant
Safety Mitra scheme promoting Eat Right and noodles and other
healthy eating habits packed foods) in schools
Food Safety and Standards Authority of in young kids, the Food or to school children
India (FSSAI) has introduced scheme of Food Safety and Standards inside school canteens/
Safety Mitra (FSM) through which it plans to Authority of India (FSSAI) mess premises/ hostel
engage motivated individuals with the food has released the draft kitchens or within 50
safety ecosystem at ground level. A FSM is titles Food Safety and meters of the school
an individual professional certified by FSSAI Standards (Safe Food and campus. It emphasizes
who assists in compliances related to FSS healthy diets for School on adopting a
Act, Rules & Regulations with three avatars- Children) Regulations, comprehensive program
Digital Mitra, Trainer Mitra and Hygiene Mitra 2019. It is a 10 point to encourage healthy
depending upon their respective roles and charter that prohibits eating habits and Safe
responsibilities. This new scheme will open sale and even promotion food and Healthy diets
opportunities in the areas of online licensing of unhealthy food items amongst school children.
and registration of food businesses, food in schools and nearby The draft also proposes
safety training and hygiene auditing, mainly schools. The Ten-point converting school
focused on small and medium scale food Charter of this regulation campuses into ‘Eat Right
businesses. Further, to kick start the scheme, mentions blanket ban School’ which focuses on
the assistance of the Network of Professionals on selling on foods high safe, local, seasonal foods
of Food and Nutrition in India (NetPro.FAN) in fat, salt and sugar or and emphasize on no
chapters of the respective states may also HFSS (includes junk foods food wastage.
be taken. At the initial stage, the training
and assessment for the said scheme to the
individuals will be provided by FSSAI through
its regional offices so that the scheme is
implemented in an effective manner while
promoting its awareness amongst the public.

FSSAI launches innovative initiatives

Food Safety and Standards books, namely ‘Gandhi and Food’ bags are being provided on rental
Authority of India (FSSAI) and ‘Eat Right Textbook’. FSSAI basis through a private textile
has recently partnered with has also launched a reusable rental service company. Proper
NASSCOM Foundation to develop cloth bag (‘Eat Right Jhola’) to and regular washing of cloth
an online platform to connect replace plastic bags for grocery bags is essential to ensure safety
over 50 NGOs working to prevent shopping with retail chains such and hygiene, as on repeated use,
food waste in the country. In as Big Bazaar, More, 24/7 and bags are often contaminated with
addition, FSSAI is publishing two Reliance Fresh etc. These cloth microorganisms and bacteria.

10 REGULATORY NEWS NUFFOODSSPECTRUM | December 2019 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in

NDDB to unveil CSIR, MoFPI
second phase of dairy plan display new
technologies
As the phase-1 of the the second phase will have
ambitious National Dairy a projected financial outlay Keeping in mind the growth in
Plan (NDP-1) has come to of about Rs 8,000 crore. The the food industry, the Associated
an end, the National Dairy model of operation for second Chambers of Commerce and Industry
Development Board (NDDB) phase will mostly be the of India (ASSOCHAM), one of the
has initiated talks with same with five-year tenure, apex trade associations of India
the World Bank and the as the first. The second phase in association with the Council of
government departments of the NDP will primarily Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR)
concerned to go ahead with focus on developing milk and Ministry of Food Processing
the second phase of the processing infrastructure and Industries (MoFPI) organized an
Plan. While the first phase establishment of milk quality Exhibition cum workshop on
was launched in 2012 with testing equipment at critical technologies in Food Processing
an outlay of Rs 2,242 crore, points of procurement areas. developed by CSIR on November 13 in
New Delhi. Inaugurated by Dr Harsh
Vardhan, Union Minister of Science and
Technology, Earth Sciences, machines
and food products developed in
CSIR laboratories especially those in
Chandigarh, Mohali, Mysore, Palampur
were on full display. MoFPI has
provided 75 per cent subsidy to those
setting up food processing industries
in hilly regions and 50 per cent subsidy
for those setting up food processing
industry in north-east regions of India.
In addition, MoFPI is working towards
promoting organic food consumption
through various measures.

Assam inks food biz pact with Malaysia

Assam Industries and Commerce Department
has signed a Memorandum of Understanding
(MoU) with Malaysia India Business Council (MIBC)
to improve the two-way trade and investment
between India and Malaysia. The MoU was
signed on November 10 in the presence of Assam
Industries and Commerce Minister Chandra Mohan
Patowary and MIBC president Tan Sri Ir Kuna
Sittampalam in Guwahati. As per the MoU, both the
parties agreed to explore and improve the two-way
trade and investment between the two countries in
sectors like food processing, tea tourism, education
etc. Terming the MoU as a historical milestone,
Sittampalam has added that the North East region
can be the food basket for Malaysia as the country
imports varieties of food items from India.

NUFFOODSSPECTRUM | December 2019 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in FINANCE NEWS 11

Flipkart steps into food retail business

Flipkart is entering to invest about $500 million in the and engage with
the food retail course of the next five years to build third-party sellers.
business as the its own private label food products The company is
e-commerce giant looking forward to
looks to expand its invest more deeply in
reach in the nation. local agri-ecosystem,
Flipkart, which sold supply chain and
majority stake in working with lakhs
the company to of small farmers,
Walmart for $16 Farmer Producers
billion last year, Organisations (FPOs),
has registered an food processing
entity called Flipkart industry in India,
Farmermart Pvt helping multiply
Ltd, in compliance with local laws farmers’ income and bring
that will focus on food retail. The affordable, quality food for millions
company has already committed of customers across the country.

ITC picks 33.2% Axereal acquires
Cargill’s malt business
stake in tech startup
Axereal, one of France’s leading cereal cooperative
ITC has announced that it is acquiring up to groups specializing in growing and processing cereals
33.42 per cent stake in Bengaluru-based vending for the brewing, baking and livestock industries, has
machine tech startup Delectable Technologies. completed the acquisition of Cargill’s malt business
The investment will strengthen ITC’s presence in on behalf of its subsidiary, Boortmalt. The acquisition
the emerging distribution channel of vending strengthens Axereal's position globally and makes
machines in the FMCG sector. Over the next year, Boortmalt the world's leading player in the production
ITC is said to complete a full acquisition in an of malt. With this acquisition, Boortmalt will take over all
all-cash deal, and the deal size is said to be Rs 7.5 of Cargill’s malt activities, including 16 malthouses in 9
crore which will be paid in four tranches over 12 countries, nearly 600 employees and a total production
months. Founded in 2014 by IIT-graduate Satvik capacity of 1.7 million tonnes. This brings the total
Sarwarde, Delectable is a seed-funded startup capacity of Boortmalt to 3 million tonnes with 27 malting
which is into building a distribution channel plants on 5 continents, making it the world leader in
through vending machines. The company the production of malt. The Boortmalt headquarters will
partners with FMCG goods makers and stocks remain in Antwerp, Belgium, as well as the R&D center,
their products to enhance the brand’s presence making the Antwerp malthouse the biggest in the world.
outside the typical retail channels.

12 COMPANY NEWS NUFFOODSSPECTRUM | December 2019 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in

Cargill reduces Corbion, Nestle to develop next-
gen microalgae ingredients
carbon footprint
Dutch food and biochemicals
in India company Corbion and
Swiss food giant Nestlé
Cargill’s oils business in India have entered into a joint
has redesigned its packaging by development agreement to
cutting down on the amount of develop a next generation
raw plastic used across all products. platform of algae-based
In association with Dow Chemical, ingredients rich in protein
the business reformulated its and micronutrients that
plastic material, making 90 per cent can deliver sustainable, great-tasting, highly nutritious products.
of its plastic packaging recyclable. The agreement will combine Corbion’s microalgae and fermentation
The business is committed capabilities with Nestlé’s expertise in the development of plant-based
to promoting a sustainable products. The aim of the joint development agreement is to establish
environment by reducing raw a platform for the production and commercialization of algae-based
plastic usage in its popular edible ingredients rich in protein and micronutrients. The research will work
oil brands Gemin, Sweekar, and to further develop the functionality, taste, and nutritional profile for
NatureFresh. To raise further use in different types of products.
awareness among consumers, the
brands carry the slogan ‘recycle Coca-Cola brings Rani
the present, save the future’ on Float brand to India
their packaging. Converting 90
per cent of its plastic packaging to Coca-Cola has rolled out fruit with Coca-Cola in 2011 to create
recyclable packaging across its oils juice brand Rani Float in India Rani Refreshments which is now
business is just one step to address in line with the beverage the owner of the Rani brand of
plastic waste management. The company’s plans to expand drinks. The brand has a strong
business has also reduced the use its portfolio beyond its core presence in the middle-eastern
of plastic by removing the paper brands. The launch is the latest markets where it also sells other
label and converting it to in-mold example of Coca-Cola’s strategy variants such as a sparkling
labelling and converting paper to offer more choices to drink, as well as a Rani Cubs
used in the corrugated boxes to consumers and catering to their drink for kids. The brand is
Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) diverse tastes and preferences already available in top metros.
certified. These efforts resulted across beverage categories. Coca-Cola will launch Rani Float
in a reduction of 225 Metric Tons Rani Float was launched in across Reliance Retail stores in
(MT) of plastic annually and has 1982, by Saudi Arabia based- Hyderabad, Vijayawada, Guntur,
successfully reduced CO2 emission Aujan Industries. However, the Bengaluru, Mumbai, Pune, Delhi
to 445MT. company formed a joint venture NCR, Chennai etc.

NUFFOODSSPECTRUM | December 2019 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in COMPANY NEWS 13

Aadvik Foods PepsiCo India adopts
FSSAI’s SNF program
releases
Eat Right School (Safe and Nutritious Food, @ School), a nation-
raw camel wide program of the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India
(FSSAI), has been successfully adopted by PepsiCo India, in line with
milk powder company’s commitment towards creating awareness about safe
food, healthy and sustainable
Rajasthan based Aadvik Foods has diets. The adopted modules
recently launched raw camel milk were rolled out in leading
powder. With this launch, Aadvik home science colleges across
Foods further adds to its unique the country where volunteering
product portfolio consisting of 40 SKUs students were trained as ‘Safe
including frozen camel milk, freeze- and Nutritious Food (SNF)
dried camel milk powder, camel milk Fellows. These SNF fellows later implemented the programme
chocolates, and camel milk-based across schools in Delhi, Gurugram and Mumbai. In 2018-2019, the
skincare solutions. Available for pre- SNF Fellows facilitated informative sessions on Iron Deficiency
order now, the raw camel milk powder Anemia across schools impacting over 4.5 lakh children. For the
is available exclusively through the year 2019-20, PepsiCo plans to expand the reach to over 200
company’s website. Aadvik Foods follows schools in these cities with a focused curriculum on whole grains.
a meticulous process while creating its
raw camel milk powder. Temperature Himalaya unveils nutritional
controlled transportation is used for the supplement for children
milk until it is converted into powder.
Further, every batch of the final product The Himalaya Drug Company has launched Quista kidz, a super
is tested for quality before reaching tasty, nutritional supplement formulated for children aged
the end-user. On the back of its high- between 3 and 10 years. It aids in active growth, building strong
quality camel milk and camel milk-based immunity, and supporting smart memory in children. Fortified
products, Aadvik Foods has already with 100 per cent milk protein, minerals, and vitamins, Quista kidz
fulfilled over 2 lakh orders globally. is a unique blend that brings together the benefit of both worlds,
Through its steadily increasing demand, scientific research along with time-tested traditional ingredients.
the brand is well on its way to escalating The formulation is a blend of 100 per cent milk protein, which
its sales numbers to 25,000-30,000 liters supports growth; ginger, which improves digestion; and inulin, a
per month within the next 18-24 months. prebiotic fiber that improves gut health. It also includes colostrum,
In the coming months, Aadvik Foods is Tulasi, and vitamins like A, C, and E that build immunity,
looking to expand with sugar-free camel and Folic acid, Vitamin B12,
milk chocolates and a few variants of Iron, Iodine, along
goat milk soap. with Almond and
Mandukaparni that
help in improving
memory. Quista kidz
provides the right blend
of macro- and micro-
nutrients enriched with
herbs. Overall, it is a
go-to solution to provide
balanced nutrition and
support optimum
growth in
children.

14 START-UP NEWS NUFFOODSSPECTRUM | December 2019 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in

All That Lil’ Goodness and sCoolMeal
Dips revolutionise eating habits
gathers
funds for Bengaluru based Lil’ Goodness schools to provide a healthy snack
expansion and sCoolMeal, a leading kids’ to around 40,000 school kids in
food and nutrition start-up is set order to start snacking healthy and
Vadodara-based to revolutionise the eating habits tasty food without compromising
startup All That Dips among children by building an on the fun and taste aspects. Lil
Pvt. Ltd., which offers ecosystem that nurtures good Goodness and sCoolMeal nutrition
preservatives-free & tasty food and nutritious food and culinary experts have joined
dipping sauces, habits. Through a combination hands to blend the two to create this
has received an of freshly prepared meals and wholesome experience. The startup
undisclosed amount for preservative-free convenience foods, is also launching a unique rewards
its pre-Series A funding Lil’Goodness and sCoolMeal are program for healthy eating that gives
round from early-stage empowering millennial moms with nutrition-based rewards points to
venture capital firm a unique combination of ‘goodness’ kids for each recipe- this also will
GVFL Ltd, formerly filled choices for their Lil’ ones. help parents benchmark themselves
known as Gujarat The startup has partnered with against others in their peer group.
Venture Finance
Ltd. The firm, which IAN backs food startup in Bihar
manufactures a variety
of dips that include Indian Angel Network (IAN), a February 28, 2019, Gorural Foods
salsa and hummus, pioneer in the seed and early-stage & Beverages was founded with
will use the funding investing, has recently invested the vision of providing a tasty and
for geographical in Sattuz. Owned and operated healthy alternative to carbonated
expansion and launch by Gorural Foods & Beverages, and caffeinated beverages currently
newer products in the Bihar-based startup brand is flooding the market. According
the healthy snacks facilitating improved access to the to the startup, the non-alcoholic
category. Dips’ goodness of foods and beverages of beverage industry currently stands
products are available rural India for the global consumer at over Rs 200,000 crore and Sattuz,
in over 200 stores base comprising new-age, health- on the back of its nutritional benefits
across Gujarat and conscious individuals. IAN investors and ease of transportation, is well-
cities such as Mumbai, Hari Balasubramanian and Vikas placed to disrupt this high-value
Pune and Bengaluru. Kuthiala led the funding round and market. The company is targeting to
will join the company board at Sattuz capture 1-2 per cent of market share
post investment. Incorporated on over the next five years.

NUFFOODSSPECTRUM | December 2019 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in START-UP NEWS 15

Coolberg Beverages Dairy startup NutriMoo
raises $3.5M funding secures $1M funding

Mumbai based Coolberg be used to strengthen Credence Whole Foods Pvt. Ltd., a dairy and
Beverages has raised the distribution network whole foods startup that operates under the
$3.5 million in a and increase brand NutriMoo brand, has raised over $1 million in a
Series A round led by awareness. The startup strategic investment from IndoCan Honey Pvt.
Singapore-based family has a distribution Ltd., a business entity that focusses on premium
office RB Investments network across major quality honey. The startup will use the funds
and existing investor cities and the products for market expansion and invest in product
India Quotient. Other retail at around 12,000 and backward
investors in the round outlets. Its products linkages,
include Suashish are also being sold and NutriMoo. It also
Diamonds chairman served at non-traditional plans to market its
Ashish Goenka and locations such as offices, products through
a clutch of investors colleges and airports. a distribution
from the Indian Angel Its beer comes in malt, network that
Network (IAN). The ginger, peach and mint will comprise
funds are intended to flavours, among others. of a dedicated
in-house team
and tie-ups with
supermarkets and
grocery chains.
The Gurugram-
based startup is
also selling its
products through
its own mobile
applications and
other platforms
such as Swiggy,
Amazon and
Flipkart. It claims to have fully fresh, hormone-,
preservative- and adulteration-free products.
Some of its offerings include cow and buffalo
milk, ghee, desi ghee, yoghurt, cottage cheese
and several varieties of honey.

Tiger Global leads $7.5M funding for UrbanPiper

Bengaluru-based UrbanPiper, a delivery partners and restaurant
platform that simplifies online point-of-sale systems. The platform
ordering for restaurants, raised provides a mature dashboard to
Series A round of $7.5 million restaurants and brings automation
led by Tiger Global along with to their online presence across
Sequoia India. The startup will different channels. With a team of
use the new funds to scale the over 75 individuals, it helps reduce
team, the product suite as well order cancellations and the manual
as for international expansion. effort required by restaurants to
UrbanPiper’s core offering is to update their catalogue across
provide integration between food various online platforms.

16 WORLD NEWS NUFFOODSSPECTRUM | December 2019 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in

Nepal launches Baliyo Sri Lanka facing triple
nutrition movement
burden of malnutrition
The President of Nepal Bidya Bhandari has launched
Baliyo Nepal, a national nutrition movement. Baliyo A combination of unhealthy diets and sedentary
Nepal seeks to mobilize private sector and civil lifestyles have sent overweight and obesity rates
society to support Nepal’s efforts in the reduction of soaring in Sri Lanka and around the world. According
chronic malnutrition and hunger. The President has to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)
highlighted the need for all stakeholders to work and the World Food Programme (WFP) of the
together to improve the status of nutrition for children United Nations, Sri Lanka is facing a triple burden of
and women of reproductive age. All three layers of malnutrition, with stagnant rates of undernutrition
the government, communities, civil societies, donors, combined with growing overweight/obesity. In the
and scientific communities are to work in tandem recent years, while the prevalence of undernutrition
to fight malnutrition among children and women such as wasting and stunting in young children
of reproductive age. Baliyo Nepal is establishing has remained more or less the same, prevalence
collaboration with the food industry to increase of overweight and obesity in school children and
the supply of affordable and nutritious food and adults have increased. Secretary to the Ministry of
generating the demand for these products through Agriculture, K.D.S. Ruwanchandra has recognized
social marketing and behavior change interventions. the need to reorient agricultural priorities to focus
Baliyo Nepal is a not-for-profit organization, currently more on nutritional quality and diversity, to meet the
funded by Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. nutritional needs of a growing population.

PNNCC holds maiden meeting

The Pakistan National Nutrition discussion during the first meeting should be developed as a starting
Coordination Council (PNNCC) held brought the light to myriad point. The participants also agreed
its maiden meeting in Islamabad nutrition stakeholders working that nutrition is a whole of the
on November 8, 2019. The creation in a fragmented manner with no government multi-sectoral agenda
of the Council has been hailed coordination and significant overlap with health, social protection,
internationally, since the Prime and duplication. The Council has agriculture, fortification, sanitation
Minister chairs the Council with six been created to overcome that in and water and behavioral change
ministers as its members reflecting coherence. The members of the and communications inter-playing.
both of multi-sectoral construct as Council decided that mapping of They also underscored the need
well as high political commitment nutrition stakeholders in digital for strong accountability and clear
to address malnutrition. The observatory style documentation metrics as a starting point for action.

NUFFOODSSPECTRUM | December 2019 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in WORLD NEWS 17

Cargill opens culinary FAO, Danone
experience hub in Belgium
collaborate to
Cargill has opened a Culinary Experience Hub in its research &
development site (R&D) in Vilvoorde, Belgium. Customers from across improve global
the EMEA (Europe, Middle East and Africa) region are invited to solve
their food formulation challenges and co-create new ingredients and nutrition
recipes alongside Cargill's food
experts. The facility features a The Food and Agriculture
bakery pilot plant, a regional Organization of the United
frying center and a culinary Nations (FAO) and Danone
tasting area with capabilities have agreed to work
for dairy, beverage, bakery, together to improve global
convenience foods and culinary nutrition and food safety
applications. Vilvoorde is one of knowledge, and promote
Cargill's first culinary experience responsible agricultural value
centers. The center is specialized chains for more sustainable
in research and development food systems. The UN agency
into new food ingredients and and the global food and
recipes, as has a professional chef, who works with customers to either beverage company have a
adapt existing products to evolving consumer demands, or to develop shared understanding of the
new products from scratch. The center in Vilvoorde employs over 150 need to scale up sustainable
scientists and technologists. food and agricultural
practices, and to provide
USDA, EPA, FDA, FWRA team people with access to
up to curb food wastage more diverse and healthier
foods. The Memorandum
The U.S. Department of by the three federal agencies of Understanding (MoU)
Agriculture (USDA), the U.S. in 2018. Through this Memo of between FAO and Danone
Environmental Protection Agency Understanding, USDA, EPA and is based on four pillars: (i)
(EPA), and the U.S. Food and the FDA will formalize industry Exchange information on
Drug Administration (FDA) have education and outreach efforts emerging food safety issues,
announced a new partnership with the Grocery Manufacturers including new trends and
with the Food Waste Reduction Association, the Food Marketing drivers; (ii) Share data on
Alliance (FWRA), the latest effort Institute, and the National food consumption and
in the Winning on Reducing Restaurant Association, the three nutrient intakes to improve
Food Waste Initiative launched founding partners of the Food knowledge and foster
Waste Reduction Alliance (FWRA). the adoption of healthier
The Winning on Reducing Food eating habits, starting with
Waste Initiative is a collaborative Egypt as a pilot country;
effort among USDA, EPA and (iii) Exchange knowledge
the FDA to reduce food loss related to food systems and
and waste through combined nutrition security through
and agency-specific action. the provision by the FAO
Individually and collectively, of its e-learning courses
these agencies contribute to the and digital certification to
initiative, encourage long-term Danone employees; and (iv)
reductions, and work toward the Promote compliance with the
goal of reducing food loss and Sustainable Development
waste in the United States. Goals and responsible
business conduct in global
agricultural supply chains.

18 COVER STORY NUFFOODSSPECTRUM | December 2019 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in

INDUSTRY BANKS
ON TECHNOLOGY
FOR MILK SAFETY

In October 2019, Food
Safety and Standards
Authority of India (FSSAI)
released a full report
after carrying out a
survey on safety and
quality of liquid milk in
the country. Although
the survey results hint
towards demolishing milk
adulteration perception,
an in-depth analysis of
the report reveals that
1 in 10 packets of milk
purchased by consumers
could be unsafe. Hence
more is required in the
dairy sector in order to
address the issue of milk
adulteration at all levels.
On a whole, further steps
are required to be taken
to achieve transparency
and efficiency in the dairy
sector of India through
public private partnership
and best use of technology.

NUFFOODSSPECTRUM | December 2019 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in COVER STORY 19

Public confidence in the safety and quality of milk KEY FINDINGS OF NATIONAL
and milk products has been adversely affected MILK SAFETY AND QUALITY SURVEY 2018
in the recent past due to speculated large scale
adulteration of milk and milk products in the country. ● Adulterants- 0.18%
From January 2018 to April 2019, Department of Food ● Aflatoxin M1- 5.7%
Safety, Government of the National Capital Territory of ● Antibiotics residues- 1.2%
Delhi, had tested 2,880 food samples out of which 477
products failed the quality test. Milk and milk products TECHNOLOGICAL SOLUTIONS
accounted for 161 of the failed tests, of which 21 products FOR ENSURING MILK QUALITY
were misbranded and 125 were found to be substandard.
● Comprehensive/ ● Blockchain
The Department had observed that mostly milk Generic sensors ● Drones
samples fail to meet standard because the fats or solids- ● Artificial
not-fat content is less than the standards mentioned in ● IoT
the Act. Sometimes cows produce milk that is not up ● Cloud Computing Intelligence
to the standard. Also, milk may contain adulterants like
sugar or glucose, which might not be harmful for health SUGGESTIVE MEASURES BY
but an adulterant nonetheless. However, in case of unsafe FSSAI TO TACKLE MILK CONTAMINATION
milk, there could be adulterants like soda and hydrogen
peroxide, which is harmful to health. Contaminants like ● Awareness building activities
mycotoxins and antibiotics can also find their way in the ● Continue to monitor residue levels of pesticides
milk, if the fodder or the milk is not handled properly at
the farm. in milk on an on-going basis
● Effective guidance in animal husbandry
Later in October 2019, Food Safety and Standards
Authority of India (FSSAI) released a full report after practices
carrying out a survey on safety and quality of liquid ● Residue prevention strategy by having a proper
milk in the country, referred to as ‘National Milk Safety
and Quality Survey 2018’, conducted from May 2018 to drug use guide
October 2018 covering all states and Union Territories. ● Monitoring use of antibiotics and veterinary
The survey showed that 12 out of 6,432 samples of milk
were adulterated that render such milk unsafe for human drugs over a period of time
consumption. Six samples were found adulterated with ● Proper maintenance of treatment and health
hydrogen peroxide, three with detergents, two with
urea and one sample was found to have neutralizers. records for animals
No samples were found with boric acid and nitrates, the ● Adoption of good storage and transportation of
other two possible adulterants. In order to ensure that
the survey uses uniform test protocols both for sampling feed
as well as analysis, FSSAI collaborated with Hyderabad ● Implementing Scheme of Sampling and Testing
based VIMTA Labs this time.
and Inspection
A major finding in the survey was presence of Aflatoxin
M1 residues beyond permissible limits in 368 out of 6,432 either due to quality of feed and rearing practices or due
samples that is 5.7 per cent of the samples. This is the first to dilution of milk with water, but such non-compliance
time that such a detailed survey of presence of Aflatoxin in standardized and processed milk is surprising. Further
M1 in milk has been done in the country. Aflatoxin M1 processed milk was found to have maltodextrin and sugar.
comes in the milk through feed and fodder, which are These are not unsafe but are added to raise the level of fat
currently not regulated in the country. The survey further and SNF of milk.
showed that 77 out of 6,432 samples that is 1.2 per cent
of the samples had residues of antibiotics above the Although the FSSAI survey results hint towards
permissible limits. demolishing milk adulteration perception, an in-depth
analysis of the report reveals that 271 out of 2607
The survey has also shown that about 41 per cent processed samples were found to be unsafe. In other
samples, though safe, fall short of one or another quality words, over 10 per cent of the processed milk samples or
parameter or standard. Both raw and processed milk 1 in 10 packets of milk purchased by consumers could be
samples have failed on account of low fat or low SNF unsafe. On the other hand, the survey suggests that 185
(solids not fat). Such non-compliance in raw milk could be out of 3825 raw milk samples were observed to be unsafe
which accounts for 4.8 per cent of the total samples. It is
indeed surprising as to how contaminants continue to
remain in processed milk, in higher probability, despite
having undergone several levels of processing and checks

20 COVER STORY NUFFOODSSPECTRUM | December 2019 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in

by the organised sector. however suffered from similar infirmities.
In 2011, FSSAI had conducted a quick survey of In 2018, FSSAI has conducted the third survey, by

adulteration of milk through its regional offices. This far the largest survey in terms of sample size i.e. 6432
quick survey suffered from several drawbacks. The survey samples qualitatively analysed and 1965 samples
was based on 1791 samples only and focused mainly quantitatively analysed for adulteration or contamination
on quality parameters rather than safety concerns. Only for safety parameters with two quality parameters- Fat
qualitative analysis was done and the survey did not and SNF; 13 adulterants; and 3 contaminants – antibiotics,
include parameters related to contaminants. Later, FSSAI pesticides and Aflatoxin M1. Overall, above 93 per cent of
conducted the second national milk quality survey in the samples that is 5976 out of 6,432 samples were found
2016 through State food authorities. This survey also to be absolutely safe for human consumption. This is
undoubtedly good news for consumers.
MILESTONES OF MILK SURVEYS BY FSSAI
“While the survey results effectively counter wrong
Year Sample size Survey Highlights perception of large scale milk adulteration in India,
2011 1791 non-compliance on quality parameters, particularly in
A quick survey of processed milk is a matter of concern. This has been
2016 1663 adulteration of milk through taken up with all the dairies for initiating corrective and
2018 6432 regional offices focused preventive action. Safety concerns due to contaminants
mainly on quality parameters would be addressed by monitoring
rather than safety concerns. the quality of cattle feed that
appears to be a potential source of
Second national milk quality contamination of milk. Also, FSSAI
survey through State food has developed a standardized
authorities ‘Scheme of Testing and Inspection
(STI)’ of milk by dairy processors at
Milk samples analysed different stages of the value chain
for adulteration or to ensure proper internal controls”,
contamination for safety points out Pawan Agarwal, CEO,
parameters- Fat and SNF; FSSAI.
13 adulterants; and 3
contaminants – antibiotics, Although the milk samples were checked individually
pesticides and Aflatoxin M for 13 different adulterants such as vegetable oil/fat,
detergents/caustic soda, hydrogen peroxide, sugar,
TOP STATES SHOWING AFLATOXIN glucose, urea, starch, maltodextrin, boric acid, ammonium
M1 CONTAMINATION (IN PERCENTAGE) sulphate, nitrates, cellulose, and neutralizer, using
available methods from FSSAI manual for milk products,
● Kerala- 19.8 ● Punjab- 14.3 scientific studies suggest otherwise. Recent research on
● Tamil Nadu- 16 ● Odisha- 10.4 milk adulteration has revealed that adulterant specific
● Delhi-NCR- 14.5 ● Haryana- 8 approach is not practically viable.

NUFFOODSSPECTRUM | December 2019 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in COVER STORY 21

ACTION PLAN BY FSSAI ON MILK SAFETY to undertake fortification of milk with Vitamins A
and D which are lost during processing. Since milk
● Taking into consideration the results of both is consumed by all population groups, fortification
the surveys and available testing infrastructure, of milk with specified micronutrients is a good
a 12-point action has been drawn up by FSSAI strategy to address micronutrient malnutrition.
to ensure safety and quality of milk and milk ● To build up trust of consumers in safety and quality
products in the country. These actions are broadly of milk, consumer awareness and engagement
in three areas, namely – (1) testing and continued programs will be organized throughout the
surveillance, (2) preventive and corrective action country. This will include dissemination of
for implementation and monitoring; and, (3) details about DART book, magic box containing
consumer engagement. simple tests to be performed at home to check
adulteration in milk and Consumer guidance
● For testing and continued surveillance and to note on milk products. A guidance document
upgrade testing infrastructure, several rapid on the Hygienic and Safe Practices for Handling
testing and high-end precision test equipment of milk products will also be released. FSSAI has
have been provided to States/UTs. In addition,
FSSAI has notified NABL accredited private also undertaken a project under
and other public food laboratories for primary, joint funding for comprehensive
regulatory and surveillance testing awareness campaign in Punjab
which can be used by the States/ through the Punjab State Farmers
UTs to complement testing by the and Farm Workers Commission for
state laboratories. improved awareness and knowledge
of adulterants in milk and milk products. Learning
● As aflatoxin-M1 and antibiotic from this would be extended as well as replicated
residues emerged as a major in different parts of the country based on the
contaminant in milk, various preventive and outcome and its impact. FSSAI would also launch a
corrective action are proposed for the stakeholders “Verified Milk Vendors Scheme” where milk vendors
in milk sector. There is need for extensive can voluntarily register through online registration
capacity building at primary production levels for portal and would be provided photo-identity card
following Good Dairy Farming Practices through and properly calibrated lactometer. Trainings would
focused training programs in the areas of animal be imparted on clean milk practices with periodic
husbandry, animal health and Feed and nutrition. sampling and testing of their milk. The hot spot
FSSAI also noticed quality issues in milk mostly areas identified would help stringent enforcement/
related to proportion of fat and solid non-fat (SNF) surveillance activities. Food Safety Mitras will also
which varies widely by species and depends on be given a mandate to facilitate registration of
breed as well as quality of feed and fodder. This these vendors at a very nominal cost. A dedicated
can be improved by proper feeding of Cattle and portal will be created to facilitate these actions. In
adopting good farm practices. FSSAI has also addition, regional workshops would be organized
developed and released a harmonized Scheme of jointly by FSSAI, Department of Animal Husbandry
Testing and Inspection (STI) to be adopted by dairy and Dairying (DAHD), NDDB, NDRI and food safety
processing plants for the purpose of monitoring departments of the States/UTs.
and self-compliance throughout their production
chain in order to strengthen their internal
controls. FSSAI also emphasizes the dairy plants

“The need of the hour is an alternate approach for setup. In order to simplify things, certain unique bio-
detection of milk adulteration, which is not adulterant- physical properties of milk as parameters or markers
specific rather is comprehensive and generic in nature. for adulteration detection should be used. The markers
Development of a single device or sensor platform to are expected to get affected or altered in presence of
detect all the known adulterants in milk is imperative. adulterants in a manner liable to be detected by an
Such a miniaturized platform would avoid manipulation appropriate sensing mechanism. The basic difference in
and tampering, as milk samples can be easily examined the proposed method and the existing adulterant specific
at several points in the supply chain for detection of approaches is the fundamental principle of looking
adulteration without the need of any complex laboratory at milk properties rather than targeting the individual

22 COVER STORY NUFFOODSSPECTRUM | December 2019 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in

GLOBAL REGULATORY “Aflatoxins are produced by Aspergillus flavus and
MEASURES FOR MILK SAFETY Aspergillus parasiticus which can contaminate animal
feed. Aflatoxin is found in maize and cottonseeds and in
New Zealand- Ministry for Primary Industries their by-products. Favourable conditions of temperature,
(MPI) administers National Chemical Contaminants relative humidity/moisture, poor storage conditions,
Programme (NCCP) that is designed to confirm the substrate composition, and storage time play an
effectiveness of the regulatory controls in place important role in fungal growth and contribute to the
for ensuring residues and contaminants in milk synthesis of these toxins. Most effective way of controlling
and manufactured dairy products do not pose a Aflatoxin M1 is by reducing contamination of feedstuff by
threat to human health. The dairy risk management Aflatoxin B1 for dairy cattle. The
programme (RMP) operators apply severe penalties survey shows that this problem is
when milk supplies are found to contain residues restricted to a few pockets and in
and contaminants above regulatory limits and some states primarily in Haryana,
MPI applies strict rules concerning traceback and Kerala, Delhi-NCR region, Orissa,
corrective actions. Additionally, MPI has a strict Punjab and Tamil Nadu. Therefore
process for managing any dairy material or product targeted awareness building
that is determined to contain unacceptable residues activities for farmers and their
or contaminants. adoption of good storage and
transportation of feed can address
Brazil- The Program for Residue Analysis of this concern”, mentions Dr Monica
Veterinary Drugs which is coordinated by the Puniya, Assistant Director, FSSAI.
National Health Surveillance Agency (ANVISA),
is responsible for the analysis of Ultra-high In addition, antibiotics in milk also stands as an equally
temperature processing (UHT) milk, milk powder, bigger concern since presence of antibiotics in foods
and pasteurized milk. has direct linkages to the global public health threat of
antimicrobial resistance (AMR). As part of the survey,
United States- US Food and Drug Administration milk samples were tested for residues of 93 antibiotics
(FDA) has developed guidelines on its enforcement and veterinary drugs out of which Oxy-tetracycline was
policies for pathogens and indicators of inadequate the main antibiotic detected. Tetracycline is the major
pasteurization or post-pasteurization contamination antibiotic group used to treat animals with bovine
of dairy products. FDA reviews the available evidence mastitis. Its occurrence may largely be due to ignorance
on a case-by-case basis to determine whether a of the farmers about withdrawal periods necessary for
dairy product is adulterated and, in doing so, is eliminating their secretion into milk.
guided but not bound by the general statements of
policy relating to the presence in those products of “Sometimes, extra dosages are administered to
pathogens, non-toxigenic Escherichia coli, or alkaline cattle or the feed is contaminated. There could also be
phosphatase.

adulterants separately. The
government should be leveraging
on these scientific developments
to carry out their surveys in a more
defined manner”, shares Prof Shiv
Govind Singh, Department of
Electrical Engineering, Indian
Institute of Technology (IIT)
Hyderabad.

Besides this uncertainty on the
actual determination of adulterants in the milk samples,
an alarm has surely been raised due to the detection of
the poisonous carcinogens Aflatoxin M1 in milk that
requires serious attention. Aflatoxin M1 is the principal
hydroxylated aflatoxin metabolite present in the milk of
dairy cattle fed a diet contaminated with aflatoxin B1.

NUFFOODSSPECTRUM | December 2019 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in COVER STORY 23

cases of using unlicensed antibiotics. It is also believed RCEP KNOCK ON DAIRY SECTOR
that some primary producers use sub-therapeutic doses
of antibiotics to prevent diseases. There is a need for Although the proposed agreement of the
awareness building activities and effective guidance in Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership
animal husbandry practices; and a residue prevention (RCEP) between the member states of the
strategy by having a proper drug use guide, proper Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)
maintenance of treatment and health records, and and its free trade agreement (FTA) partners, to
identification of treated animals and such milk should cover trade in goods and services, intellectual
not be sold while the animal is under treatment”, adds Dr property, etc. has been rejected by India, huge
Monica Puniya. concerns were raised by the dairy sector. This was
primarily because New Zealand and Australia were
Undoubtedly, correct measures need to be taken for negotiating very hard with India to reduce duty
the current observations but the lack of detailed report on dairy products so that they can get an access to
on the individual antibiotics residues found in the milk India. Signing of the RCEP would have meant death
samples raise a further concern. Also, antibiotics such as knell of the dairy sector in India, because it would
streptomycin, neomycin, tetracycline, colistin for which have led to reduction in procurement price of milk
standards have been set by the FSSAI have now been from farmers due to cheap imported milk powder
banned by the government. from New Zealand. Import of cheaper milk and milk
products would have adversely hit the livelihood of
Technological interventions 50 million milk producers in India.

Moving beyond these loopholes in the survey results, throughout the supply chain.
there is a bigger picture to look at in order to address the The industry is recognizing the
challenges associated with milk quality and safety. The key potential of data and technology
to tackle adulteration and contamination lies in the hands to tackle key challenges. Dairy is
of new age technology which the industry is leveraging getting tech savvy to ensure every
on. A deep partnership between the government and drop of milk can be backtracked to
industry can open a number of doors to this problem. its source,” explains Ravishankar
G Shiroor, Co-founder, Stellapps
“Even if the government were to formulate strict rules Technologies, Bengaluru.
and impose heavy penalties, the absence of a monitoring
mechanism will expose loopholes in the system which Shiroor further says “Few years
will be exploited. Hence, the Government should back, when Internet of Things (IoT) and cloud solutions for
look at technological solutions to tackle adulteration. dairy came in, there wasn’t much awareness about how
Traceability is the key to tackling milk adulteration. End these solutions could check adulteration. But now milk
to end digitization enables traceability and ensure that processing companies are actively employing automation
key parameters like quality and quantity are monitored and embracing the latest tech to ensure quality of
milk and food safety. It is heartening to know that the
government has launched the ‘Animal Husbandry Startup
Grand Challenge’ to support startups that enable product
traceability and work to eliminate milk adulteration.
By encouraging and subsidizing the use of innovative
solutions to curb milk adulteration, the government can
play a key role in reshaping the dairy industry.”

Over the last few years, dairy startups have brought
in a digital White Revolution in terms of using technology
in the dairy sector. From using wearables to monitor
livestock, to using drones to using blockchain, to track
supply and block adulteration and to create a holistic
farm-to-kitchen experience, technology has changed the
face of the dairy sector to a great extent.

Technology is also being explored for devising new and
quick milk testing methods or devices. For example, Delhi

24 COVER STORY NUFFOODSSPECTRUM | December 2019 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in

SUMMARY OF NATIONAL MILK SAFETY AND QUALITY SURVEY 2018

Table 6.0.2: Summary of Results Sample Sector wise
Numbers
Criteria Processed Raw Overall, %
6432
Total numbers sampled 3329 Samples % # Samples %$ --
(a) Compliant 3103 59.5 51.8
(b) Non-Compliant (NC) 2647 2607 40.5 3825 49.7 48.2
(i) NC with only quality issues 322 50.3 41.2
(ii) NC with only safety issues 134 1427 54.7 1902 45.4 5.0
(iii) NC with both quality and safety issues 5976 3.2 2.1
Total samples without safety issues 456 1180 45.3 1923 1.6 92.9
Total unsafe samples 95.2 7.1
909 34.9 1738 4.8

198 7.6 124

73 2.8 61

2336 89.6 3640

271 10.4 185

# % against number of processed milk samples $ % against number of raw milk samples

based startup RAAV Techlabs has recently developed a dairy products in India. In 2018, India produced close to
milk analyser that provides information about the quality 146.31 million tonnes of milk, 50 per cent more than the
of milk after considering the presence of impurities such US and three times as much as the much-heralded new
as water, milk powder, urea, melamine, detergents and growth champ, China. The National Action Plan for Dairy
paints. It also performs an analysis of the fat, protein and Development envisages milk production target of 254.55
SNF content in milk. On the other hand, researchers at the million tonnes by 2022. According to the Agricultural and
Indian Institute of Technology in Guwahati have designed Processed Food Products Export Development Authority
a paper based sensor that can assess the freshness of milk (APEDA), India's export of dairy products was 0.1 million
with a simple detection kit waiting to reach the market tonnes to the world for the worth of Rs 2422.85 crore
soon. during the year 2018-19, with major export destinations
being Turkey, UAE, Egypt, Bangladesh and Bhutan.
“Unintentional contamination and intentional
adulteration plays a critical role in downsizing Despite these proud boasts, there are still causes of
consumption of milk. With the growing awareness among concerns in the dairy sector since more than half of India’s
customers, food quality, food safety and wholesome milk surplus is handled by the unorganized sector leading
nutrition has become the most important criteria in to frequent episodes of adulteration. For example,
selection of food brands and thus forcing organized increased demand for milk products during the festive
sector to be more focused on these aspects. At present, season leads to rampant adulteration. Since milk and milk
the industry is providing a comprehensive food testing products constitute such a huge market, adulteration is
portfolio catering to traditional and modern (rapid) an easy way to make money for many people. Its cuts
dairy testing needs. Customized testing solutions are production costs and boosts profit margins. Adulteration
being offered starting from dairy has gradually become an easy money making opportunity
farm focusing on cow health, to round the year.
dairy line hygiene and worker
environmental exposure. There Thus, much more organization is required in the dairy
are solutions available for milk sector in order to address the issue of milk adulteration
processing, pathogen detection at all levels. At present, under National Programme
and for measuring dairy product for Dairy Development (NPDD) and Dairy Processing
quality & nutrition at the industry and Infrastructure Development Fund (DIDF), the
level”, shares Sunil Jhurani, Head government is assisting dairy cooperatives to strengthen
of Biomonitoring, Merck India, and modernise milk procurement and distribution
Thane. infrastructure to ensure supply of pure and nutritious
milk across the country. But on a whole, further steps are
Looking forward required to be taken in order to achieve transparency
and efficiency in the dairy sector of India through public
India has indisputably the world's biggest dairy industry in private partnership and best use of technology.
terms of milk production with Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra,
Himachal Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Rajasthan, Dr Manbeena Chawla
Tamil Nadu serving as the major production areas of [email protected]
(With inputs from Kalyani Sharma)

NUFFOODSSPECTRUM | December 2019 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in ANALYSIS 25

IRRESPONSIBLE
ADVERTISING
UNDER SCANNER
To increase the monitoring on misleading advertisements in the food and beverages sector, the
FSSAI signed a MoU with ASCI, the self-regulatory body of advertisement industry in 2016. As per the
agreement ASCI comprehensively monitor the advertisements across various media. The move by the
two regulators to work together has resulted in reduction in filing of complaints.

On November 22, 2019 Food Safety and Standards
Authority of India (FSSAI) noted that advertising
and marketing plays a key role in people making
food choices, particularly children. It expresses deep
concern about irresponsible advertising and marketing
by food companies. FSSAI has noted with concern
incidences of irresponsible advertising by some food
companies to promote sales of their own foods often
considered unhealthy as substitute for healthy foods.

The FSSAI has issued a show cause notice dated
November 20 to McDonald’s for a newspaper
advertisement covered on November 9 in a national
daily that reads, “Stuck with Ghiya-Tori Again? Make the
1+1 Combo you love” that it considered “irresponsible
advertising”. The notice says “The central licensing
authority and FSSAI’s designated officer at New Delhi
and Mumbai have taken cognizance of this and issued
show cause notices for contravening the provisions of
Food Safety and Standards (Advertising and Claims)
Regulations, 2018 as to why further action should not be
initiated against McDonald for this.” McDonald’s has been
given time till December 27 to respond.

Commenting on this development, Pawan Agarwal,
CEO FSSAI said “The food companies must desist from
issuing advertisements/publicity materials which are
in violation of Food Safety & Standards Act, 2006 and
rules/regulations made thereunder. FSSAI is committed
to ensure the availability of safe and wholesome food
for all citizens of the country through various means
like education, awareness building and regulatory
enforcement and to achieve these goals the Eat Right
campaign is going on across the country.”

26 ANALYSIS NUFFOODSSPECTRUM | December 2019 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in

It may be noted that exactly a year ago, aligned 4 MISLEADING ADVERTISEMENTS
with the World Health Organisation (WHO) advice, UPHELD BY ASCI IN JULY 2019
FSSAI has finalized the ‘Food Safety and Standards
(Advertising and Claims) Regulations, 2018’ and notified 1. GLAXOSMITHKLINE CONSUMER
it on November 19, 2018. Under these regulations, the HEALTHCARE LTD (Horlicks Protein
advertisements should not undermine the importance of Plus): The YouTube Channel video
healthy lifestyles, and also shall not promote or portray introduces the advertisement
their food & beverages as a meal replacement unless communication as “Wondering why
otherwise specifically permitted by FSSAI. you're so tired all the time? Watch how
to take the #RiseUpChallenge by Horlicks
Through a notification dated June 28, 2019 the FSSAI Protein +”.
has issued directions regarding the operationalisation of
the Food Safety and Standards (Advertising and Claims) The video refers to complaints of
Amendment Regulations 2019. These regulations were “chronic tiredness” by participants of the
to come into force on their publication in the Official Rise Up challenge, which is not necessarily
Gazette and Food Business Operators ((FBOs) were to linked to muscle strength alone. Such
comply with all the provisions of these regulations by tiredness could be due to other health
July 1, 2019. conditions such as loss of muscle mass,
deconditioning, nutritional deficiencies,
However, representations were received from oxygen delivery, anaemia, etc. “Rise
stakeholders who have mentioned certain difficulties in Up challenge” is to check ability to move which is
complying with these regulations. The FSSAI had placed linked to many factors mentioned above as well as
these concerns before the Scientific Panel on Labelling neurological normalcy, balancing apparatus in the
and Claims/Advertisements. After due consideration the brain etc. Muscle strength is one of the outcome
Scientific Panel has recommended some modifications in factors of the Rise Up challenge; connecting this as
the regulations. The recommendations of the Scientific a direct “screening test” for “chronic tiredness” by the
Panel will be included in the Food Safety and Standards advertiser was considered to be incorrect. Hence,
(Advertisement and Claims) Regulations, 2018 as an “Failing the #RiseUpChallenge means you have poor
amendment. However, this is likely to take some time, muscle health” is misleading by exaggeration. The
as the due process of notification has to be followed. reference quoted in the disclaimer of a scientific
Pending the final notification of the amendment paper was considered irrelevant in reference to the
regulations it has been decided to operationalise these problem of “chronic tiredness” and considered to be
amendment regulations, with immediate effect, keeping misleading by ambiguity.
in mind the consumer interest and the need for fair
practices in food business operations. 2. Rasna International Pvt. Ltd. (Rasna Insta
EnerG): The television advertisement’s claim,
According to foodsafetyhelpline.com, the Food “Jab Challenge Ban Jaaye Tagda, toh Mamuli Nahi
Safety and Standards (Advertisement and Claims) Tagda Energy Drink, Rasna Insta Ener-G”, "Ye de
Regulations, 2018 together with the operationalised real tagadi Energy, kyunki dusro ke mukable sirf
amendment regulations 2019 shall be followed by the Rasna Insta mei hai Real Fruit Powder, 21 Vitamin,
Food Business Operators. However, the enforcement Minerals our Glucose ki tagadi shakti" were not
of these regulations shall commence six months after substantiated. The pack visual indicated that the
the date of issuance of this direction or after the final advertised product has 90 gm of sugar per 100 gm
notification or the proposed amendment in the Gazette and has only 0.5 gm Glucose, an ingredient known
of India, whichever is later. Further, in the event of any to provide "instant energy". The advertisement
changes in the operationalised amendment regulations creates an impression that Rasna Insta EnerG gives
at the time of finalisation, further transition time would more instant energy than glucose powder or Instant
be given for only those changes, if required. drink as the Boy Cadet rejects these products but
gets instantly energised and keeps running for
Partnership between FSSAI and ASCI more than 19 rounds after consumption of the
advertised product. The claim of instant energy
To increase the monitoring on misleading was not substantiated with composition / FSSAI
advertisements in the food and beverages sector, on licence / pack artwork or samples, nor evidence of
June 29, 2016, the Food Safety and Standards Authority the ingredients present for the real fruit powder
of India (FSSAI) signed a Memorandum of Understanding
(MoU) with Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI),
the self-regulatory body of advertisement industry.

NUFFOODSSPECTRUM | December 2019 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in ANALYSIS 27

claim; also no comparison to show superiority As per the agreement ASCI comprehensively monitor
over other generic glucose products was provided. the advertisements across various media. The council has
The comparison shown in the advertisement been given a suo motu monitoring mandate by FSSAI to
is misleading by exaggeration and implication, process complaints against misleading advertisements of
and disparages the entire category of all glucose food and beverages. FSSAI will also redirect complaints
powders and instant drinks. The advertisement against misleading food and beverages advertisements
also violated the ASCI Guidelines on Disclaimers to ASCI, which will be reviewed using ASCI's code and
and ASCI Guidelines on Advertising of Foods & guidelines. The review will include violation of the Act
Beverages. and regulations related to advertisements making
misleading, unsubstantiated or false claims.
3. Sethia Sweet Products (Milan Rasgulla):
The packaging of the product portrayed a young The FSSAI has taken serious steps against
girl donning sindoor and in a bridal get up. The misleading advertisements related to food and
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) considered beverages firms. Since 2016, ASCI has asked Dabur,
such depiction implying the practice of “Child Cargill, ITC, Patanjali Ayurved and many leading
Marriage” (which is in violation of the Child Marriage food companies to modify their ads for being errant
Prohibition Act, 2006) to be objectionable. advertisers. Besides big advertisers, ASCI has upheld
complaints against small and regional brands, which
4. Rathira Ayurveda Private Limited. (100 makes the task even more challenging for regulators
Day Diabetes Healer): The Company’s website since regional and local players abound in food and
advertisement with the pack shot claims, “100 Days beverages category. The move by the two regulators
Diabetes Healer” and carries the FSSAI logo. The to work together has resulted in reduction in filing of
advertiser did not provide copy of product approval complaints.
license, product composition details, FSSAI approval
for the claims made, and evidence of the ingredients The ASCI team looked into over 6100 complaints
present in the product, nor any data of any study from all categories in the year 2018-19 as compared
done with the product. The implication of the claim to > 4700 complaints in year 2017-18. ASCI received
that diabetes can be cured by use of this product, more than 4600 complaints directly through various
was not substantiated with clinical evidence of sources such as online on web-site, ASCI mobile app,
product efficacy, and is misleading by exaggeration. WhatsApp number, email and letters. The ASCI team
The testimonials of eight patients who have been also looks into the complaints received on the portal –
benefitted by the product was not substantiated Grievances Against Misleading Advertisements (GAMA)
and the CCC also expressed their concern for launched by the Department of Consumer Affairs. 1585
promotion of this food product with therapeutic complaints were received on the GAMA portal this
and curative claims. year (versus 1160 during 2017-18). The independent
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) under ASCI met 44
times during 2018-19 and deliberated on complaints
pertaining to 2898 advertisements. Food and beverages
sector is one of the top three sectors that received most
complaints in 2018-19. Education sector is at the top
of the table to receive 1131 complaints followed by
347 complaints in food and beverage sector (second
position), drugs and medicines (third position with 324
cases), personal care (four place with 315 cases) and
clinic (fifth place with 285 cases).

The CCC met 47 times during 2017-18 and
deliberated on complaints pertaining to 2641
advertisements. This increase as compared to 2016-17
numbers of 2300 was due to suo moto surveillance
project National Advertisement Monitoring Services
(NAMS) which was in its second year since its relaunch.
Complaints were upheld against 1177 advertisements
while complaints against 483 advertisements were
not upheld. More advertisers have opted for Informal
Resolution (IR) option and for 402 advertisements (versus

28 ANALYSIS NUFFOODSSPECTRUM | December 2019 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in

NO OF COMPLAINTS AGAINST ADVERTISEMENTS FROM FEBRUARY 2019-JULY 2019

Month Direct Suo Motu Total Total Withdrawn by ASCI
Complaints Surveillance by Complaints Complaints Advertisers upheld
Feb-19 against F&B ASCI against F&B against F&B
Mar-19 243 63 145
Apr-19 firms firms firms 344 74 229
May-19 6 206 49 114
Jun-19 4 4 10 231 67 132
Jul-19 334 106 190
Total 3 1 7 489 151 299
4 1847 510 1109
2 2
15
3 4

3 7

4 4
19 34

Source: ascionline.org

229 in 2016-17) and this option was provided for speedy Moving ahead
closure of complaints.
“Tendency of the food companies to disparage freshly
In 2017-18 the maximum incidence of misleading cooked food and vegetables that are healthier is a matter
advertisements as per complaints processed by ASCI of grave concern. Such advertisements are against
were in the healthcare sector (874) i.e. medical services / national efforts for promoting healthier and right eating
clinics (518) and medicinal products (356). Other sectors habits, especially in the children from a young age, with
where misleading advertisements have been observed the aim to ensure safe and wholesome food for them so
are education (729), food & beverages (298) and personal that the kids feel better, grow better and learn better,”
care (278). observed FSSAI.

The CCC met 49 times and deliberated on complaints The FSSAI noted that the overall policy objective
against a total of 2300 advertisements in 2016-17. This should be to reduce both the exposure of children to,
significant increase compared to 2015-16 numbers and power of, marketing of foods high in saturated
(1389) is largely due to ASCI’s suo moto monitoring fats, trans-fatty acids, free sugars, or salt. Further, no
project viz. National Advertisement Monitoring advertisements or claims for articles of foods shall be
Services (NAMS) that was restarted in April 2016 after made by any Food Business Operators that undermines
a gap of one year. Complaints were upheld against the products of any other manufacturer for the purpose
1242 advertisements whilst complaints against 454 of promoting their products or influencing consumer
advertisements were not upheld. In case of 229 behaviour. Violation of these regulations attracts a
advertisements that were complained against, the penalty up to Rs 10 lakh under Section (53) of Food
advertisers sought the newly introduced “Informal Safety & Standards Act, 2006.
Resolution” (IR) option.
The FSSAI is in the process of finalizing regulations to
The maximum incidence of misleading ensure safe and wholesome food for school children. A
advertisements as per complaints processed by ASCI key proposal in the regulations is that foods that are high
were in the healthcare sector i.e. medical services / clinics in fat, salt and sugar cannot be sold to school children
(411) and medicinal products (372). This is also largely a in school canteens / mess premises / hostel kitchens or
reflection of the suo moto surveillance that ASCI started within 50 meters of the school campus. Unhealthy diets
as per an MoU signed with the Ministry of AYUSH in are a key risk factor in childhood obesity that is rising
January 2017 and the NAMS project. Other sectors where rapidly. Diets that have excess of salt and sugar not
misleading advertisements have been observed are only harm the body but also the cognitive capabilities
education (479), food & beverages (319) and personal of the children. Therefore, at the heart of the proposed
care (165). regulations is a fundamental idea to make it clear what is
healthy for children and what is not and promote healthy
In the last six months from February 2019 to July eating habits amongst the children. These regulations
2019 ASCI has received total of 34 complaints with are in draft stage under consultation. Expecting that
19 direct complaints and 15 suo moto surveillance by these will become a reality soon.
ASCI against food and beverages firms. The number of
complaints in the food and beverages category is on Narayan Kulkarni
decline. [email protected]

NUFFOODSSPECTRUM | December 2019 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in ANALYSIS 29

India’s sufferings
continue on GHI 2019

Global Hunger Index 2019 ranks India as 102 children. In fact, 17.3 per cent of India’s productive
out of 117 qualifying countries, placed at much years of life (DALYs) were lost last year alone due to
below to its South Asian neighbors such as multiple forms of malnutrition (MOM) caused ill-health,
Nepal, Bangladesh, and Pakistan. With a score disability or early death. As public health and nutrition
of 30.3, it shows that India suffers from a level professionals, it is time to telescope the transition
of hunger that is serious. and act with the bigger picture in mind. Pumping in
cheap calories in forms of grains only (as reflected in
The Global Hunger Index (GHI), a peer-reviewed our National Food Security act, or PDS etc.) without
annual report jointly published by Concern emphasizing the need to attain balanced healthy diets
Worldwide and Welthungerhilfe measures and for all may be short-sighted.”
track hunger at the global, regional, and country
levels. GHI scores are calculated each year to assess Stressing on the need of more
progress and setbacks in combating hunger. The score efforts, Dr Mrudula Phadke,
is calculated on the basis of four indicators that are child Senior Advisor, National Rural
mortality, undernourishment, child wasting (weight for Health Mission (NRHM),
age) and child stunting. The index measures countries on United Nations Children's Fund
a 100 points scale where a score of zero is considered as (UNICEF), Ex-Vice Chancellor,
best performing countries and 100 is the worst. Maharashtra University of
Health Sciences (MUHS) says,
Where India stands? “India’s portrayal in the Global
Hunger Index 2019 is certainly interesting because in
Global Hunger Index 2019 ranks India as 102 out of my experience as a pediatrician for the past 30-40 years,
117 qualifying countries, placed at much below to its I have seen India conquering stunting, wasting and
South Asian neighbors such as Nepal, Bangladesh, and decreased infant mortality rate to some extent. There
Pakistan. With a score of 30.3, it shows that India suffers is obviously a need for more efforts, but India is a large
from a level of hunger that is serious. country and it takes time to show results. I strongly
believe stunting as a definite marker and maker of
Sharing her views on the development. Prevent is important when it comes to
findings, Dr Shweta Khandelwal, improving maternal and child health outcomes, but we
Head, Nutrition Research and also need to focus on the existing burden of SAM in the
Additional Professor, Public country, that has not changed in the last decade.”
Health Foundation of India
(PHFI) says, “India’s 102 rank out In 2018, India was ranked 103 out of 119 countries.
of 117 countries is a reminder In 2000, the country was ranked 83 out of 113 countries.
that our national policies/ With a 2019 GHI score of 20.0, the level of hunger
programmes require multipronged and under-nutrition worldwide is on the cusp of the
multi-sectoral concerted efforts to tackle multiple forms moderate and serious categories reflecting a decline of
of malnutrition. Part of the problem is that decision- 31 per cent since 2000.
makers largely see hunger as a mere calorie insufficiency
problem.” According to report, just 9.6 per cent of all children
between 6 and 23 months of age are fed a “minimum
She further says, “Eight million Indian children acceptable diet”. India’s child wasting rate is extremely
suffered from severe acute malnutrition (SAM) and this high at 20.8 per cent, the highest for any country. The
is particularly worrying because children with SAM share of wasting among children in India rose from 16.5
are nine times more likely to die than well-nourished per cent in the 2008-2012 period to 20.8 per cent in
2014-2018.

Talking about the criteria and parameter of GHI,

30 ANALYSIS NUFFOODSSPECTRUM | December 2019 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in

INDIA SPECIFIC FINDINGS IN GHI 2019 there are no medical complications for the majority
of children with SAM and they can be managed at
● India ranked below Pakistan (94), Bangladesh their homes with standard protocols. Therefore, there
(88), Nepal (73) and Sri Lanka (66) among other is an urgent need to streamline community-based
South Asian countries. management of acute malnutrition (CSAM) guidelines
as a routine part of the government system. Overall,
● As per the report prepared by Welt Hunger Life, a multisector approach coupled with national CSAM
India is one of the 45 countries where hunger guidelines may prove to be the best and most robust
causes serious crisis. investment we can better India’s positioning on the
Hunger Index and be enroute to fulfil the promise of
● In India, only 9.6% of all children between 6 the 2030 Agenda. Zero hunger and good nutrition can
and 23 months of age are given a minimum transform both the present and future generations.”
acceptable diet.
Way forward
● As per the report, the child wasting rate is the
highest (20.8%) in the world while the child India has shown improvement in other indicators such
stunting rate is 37.9% in India. as the under-5 mortality rate, prevalence of stunting
among children and prevalence of undernourishment
● India scores 30.3 on the list and indicates that owing to inadequate food.
the level of hunger is serious in the country.
Talking about the way forward,
● GHI highlights that the country has improved in Amitabh Kant, CEO, Niti Aayog
some indicators such as under-5 mortality rates says, “Nutrition is India’s biggest
and prevalence of undernourishment owing to challenge. We have been
inadequate food. working on this challenge from
very long time through a range
Dr Chandrakant S. Pandav, of programmes like mid-day meal,
member, National Council for anganwadis but haven’t got the
India Nutritional Challenges, desired results so far. This is largely because we have not
POSHAN ABHIYAN says, been able to bring the extent of convergence, extent
“India’s population is equal to of integration across education, health and across vast
193 countries. The criteria and range of departments that work on nutrition. India’s
parameter of the Global Hunger Index challenge to reach $ 5 trillion economy by 2024 cannot
2019 survey are not justified, e.g. how can we use the be met without a huge emphasis on nutrition. It is not
same parameters to evaluate Maldives and India? It’s possible at all to grow at rapid rate without an emphasis
apple and oranges. In the field of nutrition, the task is on investing in nutrition of young adolescence of India.
to do what is possible without forgetting to do what is We need to focus on the first 1000 days of the pregnant
necessary. Nutrition is an intergeneration issue and it is women and subsequent 730 odd days and that is where
not like any other communicable disease. There can’t be India seems to be lacking miserably.”
any overnight changes in nutrition, but we are on the
right track. There is still a need for a more humane-cum- “The intergenerational cycle of malnutrition is largely
holistic approach and this can only be achieved by an because we have not laid stress on women in India.
active multi-sector approach, reinforced with a new set India spends an enormous amount on its mid-day meal
of national-level policies or guidelines around the usage and anganwadis but results have to be really focused in
of a community-based approach of addressing acute terms of our ability to get results through convergence
malnutrition in India. This way India will not only be able and integration. We work in about 12 aspirational
reverse its current status of having the highest number districts in India where we are tracking change on a
of children who are either too short for their age but not minute to minute basis. We have created a huge sense
necessarily thin (stunted) or too thin for their height but of competition and we are seeing change taking place
not necessarily short (wasted) in the by data monitoring. What you can measure can give
world, but also aid in the overall you results? This approach in the long run will give great
economic growth of the nation.” results and will actually help us to make a big break
through on this vicious cycle of malnutrition,” Amitabh
Talking about the possible Kant concluded.
solutions, Dr Sujeet Ranjan,
Executive Director, the Kalyani Sharma
Coalition for Food and Nutrition [email protected]
Security, said “This is a fact that

NUFFOODSSPECTRUM | December 2019 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in SPECIAL 31

Nutra industry - well-positioned
for next leg of growth

Indian nutraceutical industry growing from current size of $4.5 billion to $5.7 billion by 2023 is
expected to be driven by organic growth as well as greater value realization from companies moving
right on the value chain. While nutraceutical products are gaining rapid momentum in the global
market, India is perched on a competitive pedestal, leveraging the strong growth in the domestic
market, and at the same time able to participate competitively in the global markets, provided it over
comes with issue of multiple regulatory agencies and challenges.

India has a unique advantage of deep rooted traditional X disease in Y condition” but allows “Product is shown to
knowledge. Coupling this with modern science to
deliver functionally superior and validated product be helping in Y conditions”; whereas outright treatment
implies sustainable competitive advantage for the Indian
industry that is growing rapidly and going beyond claims are also allowed in countries like Canada.
extracted branded ingredients and final products. This
combined with the trend of greater consumer awareness Talking about the challenge,
and clinical receptivity for categories such as medical
foods provides the much needed tail winds for the Dr Pushpa Vijayaraghavan,
nutraceutical industry. However it faces many challenges
and one such challenge is the regulatory issue, according Director, Sathguru Management
to a white paper released by Sathguru Management
Consultants. Consultants said “The biggest

This issue creates a challenge for nutraceutical regulatory hurdle for nutraceutical
manufacturers and exporters from India as products
defined in Indian regulations as Nutraceutical can be industry is the lack of an
regulated as different grade of medical products needing
completely different set of documentation for approvals internationally accepted definition
in other importing countries. As outlined in the regulatory
section, most regulated markets have a unified body for of Nutraceuticals. The term was
regulating different product categories such as dietary
supplements, phytopharmaceuticals and traditional first coined in 1989 by Stephen
medicine.
L. Defelice; but has varied and
With three agencies (Food Safety and Standards
Authority of India (FSSAI) - an autonomous body contradicting definitions in different regulations around
established under the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare,
Ministry of Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, the world. The publication of research and clinical
Sowa Rigpa and Homoeopathy (AYUSH) and Central
Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) under evidence is global but the country level regulations are
Directorate General of Health Services, Ministry of Health
& Family Welfare) monitoring nutraceuticals based on based on domestic needs and presence of traditional
the claims and process deemed fit by the companies to
pursue; the process becomes complicated when export is system of medicine in the country. There is a need for
taken into consideration. Additionally, regulations related
to health claims allowed in different countries differ global regulatory synchronization. Though this has not
making a common product for global market difficult. The
white paper says that Indian FSSAI regulation does not been achieved on a global scale, at present the ASEAN
allow claims of prevention in implicit terms like “Prevents
countries are leading the way by following common

regulations.”

To overcome this issue, Dr Pushpa

Vijayaraghavan recommends to form a

network like International Regulatory

Cooperation for Herbal Medicines

(IRCH), a global network

of regulatory authorities

responsible for regulation of

herbal medicines, established

in 2006 and India is a signatory

and member of IRCH. Such

global regulatory

32 SPECIAL NUFFOODSSPECTRUM | December 2019 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in

conglomerates can have the authority to establish a industry in India is estimated at $ 725
standardized regulatory framework for its members. million in 2018, with exports accounting
This global initiative was championed by Health Canada. for a sizeable 47 per cent share of the
Such network for Nutraceutical regulatory bodies will industry. The segment is expected to
come up with a standardized definition and regulation witness robust grow that 13.3 per cent
of nutraceuticals which will be beneficial for exporters as CAGR, powered by growing trend of
well as importers of nutraceuticals. preferring traditional medicine as well
as high government thrust on export
Besides regulatory issue the industry is facing the promotion of ancient and indigenous
problem of increasing market genericization and threat botanicals.
from Chinese competition. According to white paper
nutraceutical extracts such as curcumin extract from India is home to most of herbs
turmeric and gingerol extract from ginger are powerful that are consumed in large volume for
time tested ingredients used to maintain a healthy medicinal purposes across the world.
lifestyle and to act against chronic diseases such as Equipped with local sourcing and supply
arthritis and bronchitis. Given the level of market maturity of raw materials, Indian herbal extract
and demand, there is an extremely high level of domestic manufacturers have emerged to be highly
competition. Apart from local competition, companies price competitive in the global markets
are also fighting imported extracts for market share and and have established a strong presence as a preferred
thus such products present a highly genericized market supplier in many export markets. Additionally, India,
landscape. The Indian pharmaceutical industry has been equipped with abundant wealth of knowledge in ancient
largely dependent on imported Active Pharmaceutical traditional medicine systems such as Ayurveda, enjoys
Ingredients (API) for decades, and this trend transcended a strong reputation globally for its herbal formulations.
to the nutraceuticals industry; a huge volume of extracts With both extract manufacturers as well as formulation
are imported into the country from other Asian countries, companies increasingly embracing technological as well
mainly competing on price. as market-centric advancements, the Indian nutraceutical
industry is well-positioned for the next leg of growth.
Dr Pushpa Vijayaraghavan suggests to take concerted According to data published from Global Burden
efforts for fostering the domestic natural extract industry of Disease study by Public Health Foundation of India
in order to circumvent this challenge. High emphasis of (PHFI), between 1990 and 2013, life expectancy in India
the current government on promoting the agriculture has improved significantly, the healthy life expectancy
sector, with a lofty target on doubling farmer income has not improved as much. Hence she notes similar to
by 2022, could be effectively channeled in conservation vaccine preventable diseases, many lifestyle related and
and cultivation of herbal and medicinal plants which geriatric diseases can be circumvented or delayed and
could help in reducing industry dependence on imported pediatric malnutrition prevented by ensuring adequate
products. supplementation and fortification with the necessary
nutrients. This in turn will bring down disease burden in
With India being a global hot spot for traditional herbs the country, drive cost savings by lowering healthcare
and botanical extracts, herbal and botanical extracts costs as well as increase active number of healthy years
citizens contribution to the country’s economic welfare.
She further suggested “Government could play an
active role in facilitating appropriate awareness creation
on nutrient supplementation and fortification.” FSSAI has
already taken up measures with voluntary fortification for
5 staples –wheat flour, edible oil, double fortified salt, milk,
and rice. This in turn will expand addressable customer
base and provide fillip to the nutraceutical industry.
While nutraceutical products are gaining rapid
momentum in the global market, India is perched on a
competitive pedestal, leveraging the strong growth in the
domestic market, and at the same time able to participate
competitively in the global markets.

Narayan Kulkarni
[email protected]

NUFFOODSSPECTRUM | December 2019 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in ANALYSIS 33

Preference for Antibiotic-

FREE MEAT INCREASING

Increasing antibiotic-resistant bacteria have Pratik Gurnani, an experienced
contributed to the market growth of antibiotic- business research writer and senior
free meat. As a result, the market for antibiotic- consultant who has expertise in
free meat is increasing. With this regard, this data analysis and cost structure for
issue looks at the growing market of antibiotic- a wide range of industry verticals
free meat and other poultry products. such as food & beverages and
agriculture and animal nutrition
The Ministry of Health issued a notification to of Persistence Market Research says “The antibiotic-free
ban the usage of antibiotic colistin on July 19. poultry market is estimated to be valued at $ 23.6 billion
The notification issued by the government read, in 2019 and forecasted to reach $ 82.3 billion by 2029.”
“The Central Government is satisfied that it is necessary
and expedient in the public interest to prohibit the He further adds, “With the availability of information
manufacture, sale and distribution of the drug colistin through the internet due to the advent of smartphones,
and its formulations for food-producing animals, poultry, consumers research about the origin, processing,
aqua farming and animal feed supplements.” packaging and ingredients of the products online before
making purchases. This supports the growth of antibiotic-
The move is said to come post an investigation carried free poultry market. For instance, cattle for the production
out by Bureau of Investigative Journalism last year that of organic beef is grown naturally and adheres to all
claimed the usage of colistin as a growth promoter in India stringent rules and regulations of the regulatory bodies
and its sale without requiring a prescription. Post this, for the production of organic products. This satisfies the
the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) consumer’s demand seeking for products with various
issued a draft regulation on August 8 to prevent the use health and nutritional benefits.”
of antibiotic colistin in food. Colistin which belongs to
the class of polymyxins is used as one of the last resort Also, awareness among millennial towards negative
antibiotics for humans. In poultry farming, colistin is used impact of food additives, chemicals, antibiotics etc. on
to fatten chickens. health is increasing. Millennials are expected to be the
key segment for demanding organic products as they
One of the fastest-growing sectors in India today, the make more purchases of natural and organic products
poultry industry in India has undergone a major paradigm than other segments. For instance, according to the U.S.
shift and has transformed from being a mere backyard Census Bureau, in 2015 the population of millennial
activity to a major commercial industry. exceeded that of baby boomers, hence making them an
important demographic for key players to cater to their
In a country where (according to the sample demands through analyzing their buying behaviour.
registration system (SRS) baseline survey 2014 released
by the registrar general of India) 71 per cent of Indians
are non-vegetarians and primarily meat-eating, the news
of the usage of antibiotics for growth promotion has
sent a shockwave among all individuals alike. Apart from
it, rising antibiotic resistance threat in India has made
people more aware of the antibiotics they consume.

According to a report by Persistence Market Research,
rising political pressure along with growing concerns
regarding antibiotic resistance has resulted in an increase
in the demand to stop the practice of using antibiotics
in livestock and has contributed towards the growth of
antibiotic-free meat.

34 ANALYSIS NUFFOODSSPECTRUM | December 2019 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in

Throwing some light on the key developments, he says and cut. In some shops, the price of antibiotic-free meat
“Antibiotic-free poultry meat market is enduring to is less than normal meat. The least expensive antibiotics
grow with prompting investment by tier-I companies for products were whole chickens at Publix Super Markets,
business expansion through enhancing their production Inc. (an American supermarket chain that operates
capacity for catering the growing market demand. throughout the Southeastern United States) and Jewel-
Osco (a supermarket chain that has 187 stores across
Commenting on the factors that are contributing Northern, Central, and Western Illinois, Eastern Iowa, and
to the growth of consumption of antibiotic-free meat, portions of Northwest Indiana), and chicken drumsticks
Gurnani says “Consumers are placing more importance at several Trader Joe’s locations, all for $1.29 per pound.
on what is in their food. It is the key to making the right
product labelling and ingredient choices. The UK market Rising awareness about protein fortification
prefers clean-label products, whereas in developing As defined by the World Health Organization (WHO)
markets such as Russia and Poland, there is more room and the Food and Agricultural Organization of the
to differentiate a product from its competition by going United Nations (FAO), fortification refers to “the practice
clean label. Consumers are increasingly on the lookout for of deliberately increasing the content of an essential
meat, savoury, and nutritional products free from artificial micronutrient, i.e. vitamins and minerals in food for
colours, preservatives, sweeteners, flavours, and anything increasing protein intake in the daily diet of consumer-
else they do not feel confident about. Clean labels preferred meat.” Increasing Awareness of Certified Food
can provide a road map to premium and value-added Products Awareness among consumers about certified
products. From raising animals to products served on food products is increasing owing to various awareness
the table, consumers prefer transparency in the process, campaigns, trade fairs that are organized by key players,
which drives the market growth for antibiotic-free meat. NGO, government organizations etc. Moreover, the
Thus, consumers’ desire for clean label and transparency consumer perceives certification as a guarantee of the
is driving the market for antibiotic-free meat.” authenticity of the product and its nutrients. Hence, key
players in the region are focusing on such certifications in
Apart from it,“increasing awareness about ingredients order to increase their sales.
in processed food is driving the growth of the antibiotic-
free meat market. According to the Organic Trade Retail chains offering antibiotic-free meat
Association (OTA), more than three-quarters of Americans A substantial percentage of total sales of antibiotic-free
(78 per cent) choose organic food at least occasionally. meat takes place through organized retail format globally.
People are more conscious about ingredients present in With economies of countries growing, the retail chain is
processed food. Artificial preservatives, GMO, antibiotics, also expected to exhibit substantial growth. Owing to
and hormones, which are not good for health, are present the increasing preference for organic and natural food
in processed food. Food consumption patterns are products, retail chains are increasingly offering such
changing and consumers prefer organic products, which products and this is expected to fuel demand for organic
are free from GMO, antibiotics, and hormones. This leads beef in the region. For instance, in the UK, TESCO, which
to an increase in demand for antibiotic-free meat.” is one of the largest retail chains across the country, offers
meat products under their own label in various processed
Also, “various governments are also supporting formats.
antibiotic-free meat production through different
programmes, for instance, in British Columbia, Alberta, As of today, companies engaged in antibiotic-free
Saskatchewan, and Manitoba, the government has poultry products are Tyson Foods, Inc., Foster Farms,
introduced a programme, Cattlemen’s Financial Hormel Foods Corp, Perdue Farms Inc, Bell & Evans, Meyer
Corporation, designed to finance the entire production Natural Angus, LLC, Pine Manor, Inc, Mom Made Foods,
cycle of the livestock– from feeder calves and replacement LLC, DaBecca Natural Foods Inc, Red Bird Farms, Cargill
heifers to bred heifers and bred cows.” Incorporated, MamaMancinis Holdings, Inc., Ranch Foods
Direct, White Oak Pastures etc.”
Predicting the future, Gurnani says “future of products
lie in the changing scenario in demand from developing Although companies producing antibiotic-free
economies, growing retail penetration, demand for poultry products in India is very less currently, but growing
certified products, and other associated industry factors. antibiotic resistance amongst the Indian population
will propel the growth of antibiotic-free meat and other
Reducing the cost of antibiotic- poultry products or not, only time will tell.
free meat can raise market share
Raising meat and poultry without antibiotics could be Prapti Shah
accomplished at a minimal cost. Price of meat depends [email protected]
on the store, type of meat (beef, pork, chicken, turkey),

NUFFOODSSPECTRUM | December 2019 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in SPEAKING WITH 35

“F&B segment is an N Chandramouli,
extremely difficult
segment to sustain CEO, TRA Research,
Mumbai
and grow in”

TRA Research, a part of the Comniscient Group, is a Amul Butter has been listed as the Most Consumer-
Brand Intelligence and Data Insights Company that Focused F&B Brand in TRA’s report this year, and truly
analyses stakeholder behavior through their two among foodies, Amul Butter is a brand which sells, as they
globally acclaimed proprietary matrices of Brand Trust have managed the difficult task of entering menus with
and Brand Attractiveness. The company recently launched the distinctive Amul prefix to Butter Parathas or Pav Bhaji.
TRA’s Most Consumer-Focused Brand Report 2019 that Recently it became the 6th largest butter consumed in
measures brands on their increase in Buying Propensity the world and continues to dominate Indian minds and
Index over the last year. In the recently launched report, palates. The Dairy segment is also the most difficult in
among India's 500 Most Consumer-Focused Brands, there logistics because it is highly perishable, and Amul has
are total 34 Super-Categories and 191 Categories. The perfected their cold chain. It is a low-margin, high-volume
categories with the maximum brands are F&B and FMCG business, and it for this reason that many other brands
contributing to 18 per cent and 16 per cent of the total which have attempted to entrench themselves in this
brands in the listings respectively. In an interaction with segment have not succeeded.
Kalyani Sharma of NuFFooDS Spectrum, N Chandramouli,
CEO, TRA Research talks about the methodology used to What are the major takeaways from the report?
prepare the report and more. Edited excerpts; This Category is divided into 39 different segments in the
list. Amul’s portfolio leads in the F&B Category with 10
Among India's 500 Most Consumer-Focused Brands, brands and Nestle has 5 brands showing the dominance
the maximum brands are F&B contributing to 18% of some group brands in the category. Some Categories
of the total brands. Can you elaborate on that? which have shown higher Consumer-Focus in the F&B
What we eat and what we drink are closely connected segment are Tea (with 8 brands), Packaged Snacks (with
to our being. We as humans have always had an 5 brands), Nutritional Supplements (with 5 brands), Ice
intimate connection to the things we consume. Also, the Cream & Chocolate Bar (with 4 brands each).
organoleptic senses, those relating to smell and taste
are the most evocative and matter deeply, making the Are there any concerns before F&B sector and how
consumer very choosy and finicky about this category. do you foresee its growth?
Successful F&B brands understand this through experience The F&B segment is an extremely difficult segment to
and it is the Category that tries harder to connect to the sustain and grow in. The segment is highly price sensitive,
consumer. This is perhaps why 89 F&B brands out of 500 has many stock keeping unit (SKUs), logistics are difficult,
Consumer-Focused Brands make it to the list. safety of product is high concern and there are multiple
governmental agencies which overlook the segment. We
Amul leads the list under F&B category. Can you have recently seen a decreasing demand of even basic
throw some light on that? F&B products like biscuits and companies like Parle forced
Amul is an iconic Dairy brand from a cooperative that to shut a factory. The exit is expected that the economy’s
started back in 1946. It has grown faster than most other sluggishness will continue for 4 to 6 quarters more, the
private dairy companies consistently for the last seven performance of the F&B will show if we have a recovery
decades to cross a turnover of Rs 33,000 crore this year. around the corner, as it is a lead indicator of the economy.
We must watch this segment very closely.

36 OPINION NUFFOODSSPECTRUM | December 2019 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in

Samara Mahindra, Indian oncology
nutrition market is a
CEO & Founder, Carer, one-sided coin
Bengaluru

When we speak about cancer nutrition or the regimen the patient is indulging in on an everyday
oncology market in India or globally, we often basis. While nutraceuticals and nutritional formulas
tend to focus on nutraceuticals or nutritional are great products to sell and have beneficial impacts
formulas that are usually obtained over the counter and on the nutritional status of the patient, only a few
selected as nutritional “boosters” to a dietary regiment are interested in helping patients understand the
or plan. Some major players in India are: Amway, importance of a healthy dietary regimen to follow for
Fresubin and Abbott. These players are now penetrating the long-run.
deeper into market territories with new players entering
the market as well because of the lucrative business Nevertheless, this is a two-way street, the suppliers
opportunity. According to the ASSOCHAM Knowledge are providing what is required for short term gains
report (2018) nutraceuticals market in India is expected and the patients want a quick fix. Although both go
to grow from $4 billion to $18 billion by 2025. hand in hand- neither is going to have a long-term
impact on the patient’s recovery or well-being. As with
There are some nutritional supplements or everything out there, change begins with education
formulas that are helpful and in some cases, essential and knowledge. Firstly, educating the patient about
in providing the additional nutritional resources to the importance of nutrition and its involvement in the
patients who are unable to ingest orally or are facing healing process, after which guiding them with long-
major nutritional deficiencies. However, needless to term nutritional support that involves considering the
say, there are also multiple brands and concoctions medical history, treatment cycle, patient demographic,
that are not validated and as a result are harmful in lifestyle and cultural preferences, along with and
nature. In cases of depleted protein levels, which is a supported by nutritional formulas if required.
common side effect for cancer patients, most, if not
all are prescribed protein powders. The issue occurs Going in-depth and dealing with the everyday
with the quality and ingredients of these powders. It nuances of the dietary requirements or side effects one
either has high levels of refined sugar or preservatives faces through cancer treatment and post treatment
that are unnecessary to the patient. The unfortunate is the missing link. Now of course this is impossible to
circumstance in the country is that there is a lack of do on a large scale and if you want to reach out to a
reliable and natural range of nutritional formulas that large market, then some amount of standardisation is
can be openly prescribed to the patient and supports required. But this is where we empower the patients
their essential dietary requirements. Having said that, through the right knowledge to then take the right
there is a change being witnessed as smaller companies decision for themselves when it comes to their
are entering the market and are creating a wider range nutrition.
of wholesome and natural products for the clinical
nutrition fraternity in India. In conclusion, the oncology nutrition market in
India is a one-sided coin that remains with players who
From our perspective, as we work with customised are creating products, however the change is when the
nutrition plans with patients from the time of diagnosis patient is supported from all levels through nutritional
to remission or end of life, we believe that the entire counselling, personalised and in-depth guidance on
oncology nutrition market is negating a very imperative their everyday nutritional habits and making them
element of cancer nutrition, and that is the dietary understand that there are always two very relevant
sides to a coin.

NUFFOODSSPECTRUM | December 2019 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in OPINION 37

Is gene based diet a
wholesome solution?

In the last few decades, a growing number of human intervention Manjari Chandra,
studies were accomplished using nutrigenomics techniques
Nutrition Consultant, Max
which revealed significant information to establish gene-diet Healthcare, New Delhi
interactions on individual basis. However, many challenges still

remain unaddressed.

Nutrigenomics refers to a multidisciplinary science Food reactions. The test reveals how the body reacts
that deals with the study of how food affects our to common foods. For example, it will tell you if you are
genes and how an individual’s genetic difference lactose intolerant or gluten insensitive.
plays a role in responding to the nutrients and other
compounds in the food we take. It has come up as Eating behaviors. Interestingly, the test can tell
an emerging science that shows huge promise and you if you have a sweet tooth, craving for snacks, have
potential in treating or preventing chronic diseases. trouble feeling full and more.

For instance, Phenylketonuria (PKU) is a medical The diet that suits you. The test will tell you what
condition caused due to a change (mutation) in a single is your genetic diet type as well as your body’s response
gene. Nutrigenomics can help identify this problem in to monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats and
affected individuals and they in turn can manage the omega-3 and omega-6 levels.
disease by avoiding foods containing the amino acid
phenylalanine. Tackling micronutrient deficiencies. You may be
taking adequate nutrients but still you are not meeting
Another example is lactose intolerance that affects RDA. Nutrigenomics can help you the decode your
approximately 65 per cent of the human population. In micronutrient status and prescribe the optimal dose of
Lactose intolerance (characterized by the reduced ability minerals and vitamins.
to digest milk and milk products), the gene encoding
lactase, the enzyme that breaks down lactose, is Your metabolic health factors. Discover how your
normally ‘turned off after weaning. Again, nutrigenomics diet affects your cholesterol, including if you’re at risk
can prove useful for people with lactose intolerance, for decreased HDL cholesterol, elevated blood sugar,
who can switch to other healthy alternatives of milk. elevated LDL cholesterol or elevated triglycerides.

The Benefits
The power of nutrigenomics can be used by just about
anyone with DNA tests, like the Pathway FiT iQ and
Pathway Fit tests, which includes diet guidelines.
This test looks at several factors, including:

38 OPINION NUFFOODSSPECTRUM | December 2019 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in

STANDARD RECOMMENDATIONS
FOR DIETARY MACRONUTRIENTS
THAT ENCOURAGE WEIGHT LOSS
ARE BASED ON PRACTITIONER
OR CLIENT PREFERENCES SINCE
THERE'S OFTEN NO CLEAR
EVIDENCE FOR WHEN TO USE A
LOW-FAT OR LOW-CARBOHYDRATE
DIET FOR A SPECIFIC PATIENT. AS
MORE NUTRITION-RELATED GENE
INTERACTIONS ARE IDENTIFIED, WE
CAN MOVE BEYOND GENERALIZED
RECOMMENDATIONS.
INCORPORATING GENETIC DATA
INTO THIS EQUATION ALLOWS FOR
PERSONALIZATION AND OFTEN
INCREASES MOTIVATION IN THE
PATIENT TO ADHERE TO A SPECIFIC
DIETARY PLAN.

The Challenges and based on this study a test should be conducted on
In the last few decades, a growing number of human that specific population using existing ‘omics’ techniques
intervention studies were accomplished using to gain enhanced understanding of molecular
nutrigenomics techniques which revealed significant interactions.
information to establish gene-diet interactions on
individual basis. However, many challenges still remain Due care needs to be exercised while validating data
unaddressed. and its final implementations towards improving human
health and development of personalized foods and diets
Standard recommendations for dietary regimen. Deciphering the gene-diet interaction will not
macronutrients that encourage weight loss are based only serve as a guide to human consumption behavior
on practitioner or client preferences since there's but also to improve the longevity of the human species
often no clear evidence for when to use a low-fat or by preventing the diet related diseases and disorders.
low-carbohydrate diet for a specific patient. As more
nutrition-related gene interactions are identified, we An argument suggests that nutrigenomics is not
can move beyond generalized recommendations. ready for clinical use or that much of the evidence
Incorporating genetic data into this equation allows comes from observational studies and many are
for personalization and often increases motivation in practicing outside of what current research supports. It
the patient to adhere to a specific dietary plan. When is inappropriate and perhaps unsafe to counsel patients
patients are given DNA-based dietary advice coupled on changing their diets or lifestyles based on genetics
with personalized recommendations, they are more without considering individual clinical biomarkers,
likely to make and maintain changes in diet. dietary and lifestyle preferences and ability to make
changes. Because of the complexity of the interaction
Nutrigenomics studies should include identification between genes and environmental factors and the
of more biomarkers, looking at geographical food hundreds of genes that play a role in chronic disease, it
indicators, genetic composition of population of that may never be possible to prescribe a specific diet based
area, prevalence of particular disease and its relatedness on genetics alone.

NUFFOODSSPECTRUM | December 2019 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in TECHNOLOGY 39

Technological Silky Singh,
Transformation of
the Food Ecosystem CEO & CTO, Ripsey,
Mumbai

Indians' love affair with food and technology has led to the and by regularly enjoying delicious food.
emergence of a food ecosystem that’s intertwined with
technology. Lakhs of households have food delivered Planning Ahead Using Data
to their homes every day. An equally large number of Increasingly people realise “you are what you eat”. Yet
office goers have food delivered to offices. Topping it eating nutritious food consistently is not only difficult, for
all off are easy to use apps that make ordering food easy most urban residents leading busy lives, it’s impossible.
and fun. Millions of urban residents have food delivered Finding wholesome ingredients is hard; cooking
using Zomato and Swiggy. The interface of their apps is wholesome meals is harder still. Food tech companies use
attractive and intuitive. Ratings help users decide whether data to help clients reach their long term fitness goals.
to order food from a restaurant. Such ratings are relevant. Without being supplied with food prepared by food
Restaurants that enjoy high ratings prepare good food. tech companies, consumers have little idea how to reach
Zomato and Swiggy have transformed the food ecosystem such goals. Food tech companies have algorithms that
in India. Today, young upwardly-mobile Indians are more tell people exactly what to do. Such algorithms create
likely to order-in than eat out. The behavioural change in roadmaps that illustrate every step towards reaching one’s
Indian society because of food delivery apps is palpable. diet goal. So rather than adopting crash diets and other
Yet under the hood, technology is having an even greater half measures which eventually lead to binging on junk
impact on the food ecosystem in India. food, a middle-aged man may use food tech companies
help to create a practical and healthy plan. Such plans are
Food Ecosystem is Data-Driven meticulously designed and because they are data-driven,
Like most industries, the food tech industry is increasingly highly reliable. Diets are nothing new to Indians. They are
data-driven. Food tech companies perform magic under commonplace and most overweight Indians have tried
the hood; their secret sauce so to speak. Powered by dieting at some point.
strong algorithms, they understand what kind of cuisine
a customer is likely to want which allows them to make What makes food tech companies so effective at
relevant recommendations. The upside of using data helping people lose, or as the case may be, increase their
doesn’t end with recommendations. Data helps design weight is they are data-driven. As a result, they have an
meal plans that complement individual's physiologies. Fit extremely high likelihood of helping people reach their
individuals who want to enjoy good health for decades fitness goals. Even more exciting is those who adopt such
needn’t carefully choose every ingredient they add to plans don't suffer hunger pangs or temptations to gorge
food. Doing so is not only excruciatingly difficult and on food. The plans are so well designed and the algorithms
time-consuming, in an increasingly fast-paced world, it behind them so robust that people following them reach
is impractical. Technology allows food tech companies their fitness objectives with the slightest effort. Their
to understand what food is best for an individual and nutritional intake is balanced by physical activity leading
subsequently design meals that offer optimum nutrition. to harmony in their bodies. This makes them healthy.
Most exciting is foods’that provide optimum nutrition are
not unsavoury, usually, they are delicious. People who eat Food aggregators and data alone aren’t transforming
them benefit because they needn’t take time from their the food ecosystem. Robotic kitchens, while not in
schedules to prepare meals that meet their fitness goals many homes, promise hygienic and tasty meals to every
household. Once the technology is perfected they will
revolutionise how people eat and live.

40 EVENT REPORT NUFFOODSSPECTRUM | December 2019 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in

AgroSpectrum debuts at

the 11th AgroVision Summit
Nitin Gadkari, Minister for Road Transport &
Highways; Ministry of Micro, Small & Medium
Enterprises, Government of India, launched
AgroSpectrum, a new venture by MM Activ Sci Tech

Communications Pvt Ltd, at the 11th AgroVision

Summit on November 22, 2019 at Reshimbag Ground

of Nagpur, Maharashtra.

MM Activ, which has been successfully running

BioSpectrum India, BioSpectrum Asia and NuFFooDS

Spectrum for the past few years, has introduced Nitin Gadkari, Minister for Road Transport & Highways;
another B2B media platform AgroSpectrum. This Ministry of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises, Government
new media platform is catering to all sub-sectors and of India, launching AgroSpectrum at the 11th AgroVision
verticals of the agro business – from food grains to Summit in presence of dignitaries and industry captains on
inputs, machinery, live-stock, fisheries to agro tourism. November 22, 2019.

It regularly updates latest news on Agri—business

and analytical & informative articles targeted at agro where ideas on various aspects of agri-business can be

industry and business leadership, key decision makers; discussed. I am glad one such platform AgroSpectrum

Research & Development, policy makers, academia and is being launched with this aim in mind. My best wishes

farmers’ community leaders. for AgroSpectrum”, the minister said.

"AgroSpectrum is committed to offer to the In addition to the print edition, AgroSpectrum’s

readers the latest news, balanced coverage, analysis digital media platform agrospectrumindia.com has

of developments, reliable information and emerging already been uniquely positioned as a specialized

trends – all that will create meaningful content for online portal for the Agriculture Industry and has been

effective business decision-making. The government receiving excellent page views and hits. AgroSpectrum

has announced its plan to double the income of farmers will handle allied and peripheral areas of agriculture

in three years and to make India achieve $5 trillion related activity called agriculture business. It covers

economy by 2025. One trillion dollar of that is expected developments in agriculture related business like

to come from the agriculture sector. Naturally, both seeds, fertilisers, equipment, processing, marketing,

these developments are going to churn the agriculture etc. It also covers news and views in the areas of agri-

and allied sectors as a lot of integration will be needed," finance, management, consultancy, agro-technology

shares Ravindra Boratkar, Publisher, AgroSpectrum; MD, and innovations, machinery and equipment, inputs,

MM Activ Sci- Tech Communications Pvt. Ltd. marketing , import and export, biotechnology,

The theme of the inaugural issue is ‘Indian horticulture, biofuels, food processing, floriculture,

Agriculture; Way Forward’. The inaugural edition warehousing, etc. A veteran in the field of agriculture,

provides informative and in-depth analytical articles on Prof (Dr) C D Mayee, former Chairman of Agriculture

various aspects of Agri and allied businesses written by Scientists Recruitment Board, New Delhi, is the advisor

experts in the respective sub-sectors. for the digital platform.

AgroSpectrum launch has also received full Since AgroVision Summit offers a great

support from Giriraj Singh, Minister for Fisheries, opportunity to connect with lakhs of farmers from the

Animal Husbandry & Dairying, Government of India, districts of Vidarbha and Marathwada in Maharashtra

who shared a special message for the inauguration and adjoining districts from states of Madhya Pradesh,

of the magazine release at the AgroVision Summit. Chhattisgarh, Andha Pradesh and even some from far

“Agriculture with livestock is the way forward for away states like Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar etc., it

doubling farmers’ income. Both the sectors are was the apt platform to launch the inaugural edition

progressing but facing challenges as well. Science of AgroSpectrum. AgroVision is a unique platform

& Technology is going to play an important role for to interact with who's who from the agriculture

further expansion of the sector along with a platform fraternity.

ECOSYSTEM COVERAGE

Comprehensive Ecosystem Coverage
Spiraling Growth

www.agrospectrumindia.com

42 PEOPLE NEWS NUFFOODSSPECTRUM | December 2019 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in

CSIO scientist wins Basanta Kumar Kar
engineering award
receives high
Dr Manoj K Patel, Senior Scientist of Central Scientific
Instruments Organisation (CSIO), has received the ‘IEI Young recognition
Engineers Award-2019’from the Institution of Engineers (India)
in recognition of his contributions to the field of electronics and Fondly called the Nutrition Man, Basanta
telecommunication engineering. He has developed various Kumar Kar, the Global Transform Nutrition
societal and industrial technologies such as electrostatic Champion, was conferred one of the world’s
agrochemical sprayer (eSPRAY), electrostatic dust mitigation most prestigious, 2019 Global Nutrition
and environment protection device and electrostatic sanitiser. Leadership Award at the UN-led Scaling
He has also received various awards for his social innovations up Nutrition Global Gathering (SUN GG) in
in the field of electrostatic spraying technologies. Currently, Kathmandu, Nepal. He is the seventh person
he is working in the area of food safety and nutrition and in the world to receive this coveted award.
advanced agri-instrumentation and technologies which are The award has been conferred on him for his
directly linked to farmers and society. Dr Patel is working in the outstanding contributions and leadership
area for several years and he is now leading as an investigator role in realizing the vision for a healthier,
of various projects which are funded by the Department of more improved world, especially for the
Science and Technology, Council of Scientific and Industrial vulnerable populations. In doing so, Kar has
Research, and various other funding agencies. been an inspirational force by propelling the
agenda for healthier adolescents,
women and children,
the harbingers of
hope for the world.
In 2018, he was
recognized by the
Government of
India for his
leadership role
in supporting
the
National
Nutrition
Mission,
also called
POSHAN
Abhiyaan.

KKR India chief Sanjay Nayar quits Coffee Day board

KKR India chief executive board after KKR’s Affirma Capital 5.67 per cent.
Sanjay Nayar has resigned investment in the Prior to joining KKR, Nayar served
from the board of Coffee company in 2010. The as CEO of Citigroup's Indian and
Day Enterprises Ltd, the private equity firm South Asian operations and as a
operator of the Café owns a 6.07 per cent member of Citigroup’s Management
Coffee Day chain, and its stake in Coffee Day. Committee and Asia Executive
subsidiary Coffee Day Operating Committee. Currently,
Global Ltd. Nayar Two other PE firms own he is a member of the board of
had joined a stake in the Bengaluru- US-India Strategic Partnership
the Forum (USISPF), and SEBI’s National
coffee based company, Institute of Securities Markets
chain’s Rivendell holds (NISM) Board of Governors.
10.61 per
cent and

NUFFOODSSPECTRUM | December 2019 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in PEOPLE NEWS 43

Vinay S
steps in as
marketing
head of
Britannia

iD Fresh Food appoints
Pavan Kumar BVS as CBO

As part of the company’s plan to Trichy, Kumar has 15 years of rich
accelerate growth and expand experience in leading consumer
its presence into newer markets, businesses. Before joining iD
Bengaluru based start-up, iD Fresh, he was the Sales Director at
Fresh Food has announced the Danone India. He has also worked
appointment of Pavan Kumar with some of the most reputed
BVS as the new Chief Business organizations in India to include
Officer (CBO). With a Post Graduate Reckitt Benckiser India Ltd., The Walt
Diploma in Industrial Management Disney Company Ltd., Tata Motors
(MBA) from NITIE, Mumbai and and GlaxoSmithKline Consumer
an engineering degree from NIT Healthcare Ltd. among others.

Unilever appoints Nils Vinay Subramanyam has
Andersen as new chairman been appointed as the new
marketing head of Britannia
Unilever has named non-executive director Nils Industries. The development
Andersen as its new chairman, appointing came after, Ali Harris Shere
an executive with deep experience across stepped down from his
consumer goods and logistics industries to role of marketing director.
help the company navigate a dip in emerging Subramanyam has been
market sales growth and fix its foods business. with Britannia since February
Andersen, 61, joined Unilever after heading 2015. He has over 17 years of
some of Europe's biggest companies including sales & marketing experience
shipping giant AP Moller Maersk A/S and in the FMCG sector with
brewer Carlsberg A/S. At Maersk, where companies such as Kellogg's
he served as CEO between 2007 and General Mills. He earlier
and 2016, he was credited with headed Britannia’s joint
bringing customer centricity and venture with Greece’s cakes
exceeding international growth & confectionery major
targets, but was ousted after a Chipita. Subramanyam
34 per cent decline in the stock holds a management
since his appointment and as the degree from the Mudra
board wanted to steer the old Institute of Communications,
conglomerate in a new direction. Ahmedabad.

44 SUPPLIER NEWS NUFFOODSSPECTRUM | December 2019 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in

Thermo Fisher launches workflow to detect pesticides

A new, validated ion spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) analysis Chromatography system coupled
chromatography tandem mass of polar anionic pesticides in with the Thermo Scientific TSQ
spectrometry Altis Triple Quadrupole MS, for
(IC-MS/MS) complex sample the multi-residue detection,
analytical matrices. The identification and quantification
workflow Thermo Scientific of anionic pesticides at low
is designed Anionic Pesticides concentrations in complex food
to enable Explorer is a matrices. The Anionic Pesticides
food testing high-throughput, Explorer is designed to provide food
laboratories sample-to-result, testing laboratories with increased
to overcome IC-MS/MS- workflow productivity and simple
the challenges based analytical methodology through access to
associated workflow, a single multi-residue method for
with liquid comprised of the high-priority anionic polar pesticide
chromatography tandem mass Thermo Scientific Dionex and metabolites.
Integrion High Performance Ion

Tetra Pak explores Ardagh unveils white shell
option for beverage cans
Graphene for F&B
Ireland based Ardagh Group sophisticated complement, or
manufacturing has introduced the latest an eye-catching contrast. The
newcomer to its range of white shell has already proven
TetraPakhasjoinedtheEuropeanCommission infinitely recyclable coloured itself a head-turner as it
Graphene Flagship project as the exclusive beverage ends: a beautiful formed an important element
representative from the packaging industry white shell. Bang on-trend, of the design for AND UNION’s
to explore possible future applications the white Coloured Shell was unfiltered lager can, which
of graphene in food and beverage (F&B) originally a specific Ardagh won a silver medal at 2017’s
manufacturing. Tetra Pak is exploring the customisation for Bavarian Cans of the Year awards.
potential graphene holds to unlock a range craft beer company AND The company was seeking
of new and revolutionary innovations for the UNION. It is now available to a modern, minimalist look
F&B industry, including packaging material all customers who are seeking to reflect their values, and
innovation that is being examined to see a bright and contemporary Ardagh developed the white
how graphene could offer coatings to reduce finish for their cans. Ardagh’s shell in response, pairing it
carbon footprint in packaging supply chain. catalogue of beverage with a black tab.
Graphene can also enhance the performance end options boasts a wide
of current packaging materials, enable new selection of attractive colours
functionality as well as increase recyclability. and finishes for both the shell
With the development of smart packaging, and the tab. With the addition
graphene’s ultra-thin flexible sensors can be of stylish white as a shell finish,
integrated to packages as data carriers for the choice expands once
producers, retailers and consumers. again, resulting in exciting
new possibilities for beverage
ends which are guaranteed
to stand out at point of sale.
Customers will be able to
match any tab from Ardagh’s
existing colour range with the
white shell in combinations
that achieve either a sleek and

NUFFOODSSPECTRUM | December 2019 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in SUPPLIER NEWS 45

PureCircle develops new stevia leaf variety

PureCircle is now expanding use production efficiency, and even
of a new stevia leaf variety which further improves its ability to deliver
provides significant advantages a sustainable supply of these next
compared to previous generations generation stevia leaf ingredients to
of stevia plants. Carefully cultivated food and beverage companies. With
by PureCircle and successfully field- that greater yield, this new stevia
tested, this new stevia varietal yields variety, the result of the company’s
greater quantities of its great-tasting expertise in stevia innovation and
next generation stevia ingredients. agronomy, provides further cost
This breakthrough, increasing the effectiveness as greater quantities
effective yield of PureCircle’s stevia of ingredients can be sourced from
plants, enhances the company’s each leaf.

Firmenich acquires CO2 Givaudan expands
capabilities with
extraction technology Ungerer acquisition

unit from Evonik As part of its 2020 strategy to expand the capabilities
of its global flavour and fragrance business, Swiss
Switzerland based Firmenich has acquired the carbon firm Givaudan has announced that it has reached an
dioxide extraction business from Evonik Industries agreement to acquire Ungerer & Company, the US based
AG located in Trostberg, Germany. This acquisition Flavour, Fragrance and Specialty Ingredients company.
significantly expands Firmenich's capabilities in Ungerer is a leading independent company in the
super critical fluid extraction (SFE), complementing flavour and fragrance specialty ingredients business,
its Naturals Centre of Excellence in Grasse, France. most notably in essential oils, which provides a rich
With more than 30 years of experience in botanical palette of predominantly natural ingredients for flavour
raw material extraction the CO2 business of Evonik and fragrance creation, as well as for end customers of
will enhance Firmenich's ability to address customers' such specialties. Ungerer also has an impressive local
growing demand for authentic, natural taste and and regional customer presence for both flavours and
scent experiences. CO2 extraction offers the safest, fragrances in North America. Founded more than 125
cleanest, and highest-quality method of extracting years ago, Ungerer has developed a strong market
natural botanical molecules, from flowers and nuts position in all segments and a high quality reputation
to coffee and tea. The facility of Evonik in Trostberg, with its customer base. With a presence in more than
Germany is now part of Firmenich's Centre of 60 countries, a total of eight manufacturing facilities
Excellence for Naturals, expanding its footprint from and six R&D centres, Ungerer’s capabilities and its
Grasse. Its products will be commercialized through 650 employees will further extend Givaudan’s market
Firmenich's Ingredients Business, while adding to the leadership in its core flavour and fragrance activities.
Group's natural product palette for Flavours.

46 R&D NEWS NUFFOODSSPECTRUM | December 2019 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in

Mumbai scientists
reveal benefits of triphala

CDFD studies Several Ayurvedic formulations, neurodegenerative disorders such
which have been in use for ages, as Parkinson's disease to study
coffee are being subjected to modern its mechanism of action. Triphala
methods of drug development is known to possess a range of
therapy for in order to make out the exact medicinal properties such as free
mechanism of their action. A radical scavenging, antioxidant,
rare disease group of Indian scientists has anti-inflammatory, antimutagenic,
done detailed chemical study anti-stress, hypoglycaemic and
treatment of herbal preparation known as radioprotective. Some of these
triphala and found it to be rich in properties are attributed to its
The efficacy of caffeine as polyphenolic content. Scientists at
a treatment of dyskinesia, the UM-DAE Centre for Excellence polyphenolic
which is caused by a mutation in Basic Sciences, University of constituents.
in the ADCY5 gene, is causing Mumbai and the Tata Institute
waves in medical circles. of Fundamental Research
Scientists at the Centre for (TIFR) subjected triphala
DNA Fingerprinting (CDFD), to detailed chemical
Hyderabad are exploring characterization and
it further. Dyskinesia refers found abundance
to a family of disorders of polyphenols. They
characterised by violent also tested its action
and involuntary muscle on molecules involved
movements. Caffeine in development of
is known to be against
adenosine. Thus it prevents Scientists suggest
formation of excess cyclic turmeric to tackle AMR
AMP, which is responsible for
the involuntary movements, Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) poses a significant threat to our health. Around
by inhibiting its synthesis 24–79 per cent of the world's population is infected with the bacterium
through blocking of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori). Like other bacteria, H. pylori has grown ever more
adenosine receptors in resistant to traditional treatment using antibiotics. Scientists from the United
the brain. ADCY5-related
dyskinesia is a roughly one- Kingdom and Germany may
in-a-million disease, and there have found an innovative way
is no known cure. The gene of stopping H. pylori infection
in its normal state provides without using antibiotics.
instructions for making Instead, they used minuscule
an enzyme that helps to capsules filled with natural
regulate muscle contraction. ingredients, notably curcumin,
The mutation disrupts that to stop the infection. Studies
process, and caffeine seems have suggested that curcumin,
to be helping to restore. which is an ingredient in
turmeric, has anti-inflammatory
and antioxidant qualities. The
scientists have discovered that
billions of minute nanocapsules loaded with curcumin and used in the right
dose, can stop the bacteria from sticking to stomach cells. This in turn, could
help antibiotics do their jobs.

NUFFOODSSPECTRUM | December 2019 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in R&D NEWS 47

NUS develops smart device to CFTRI enhances fat-

monitor water, food quality burning capacity of chilli

A team of engineers from the National University of Capsaicin, an active ingredient of chilli, is known
Singapore (NUS) has developed a highly sensitive system to have anti-obesity or fat reducing properties.
that uses a smartphone to rapidly detect the presence of Now scientists have figured out how this property
toxin-producing algae in water within 15 minutes. This of capsaicin can enhance the effect of obesity-
invention can generate test results on-site, and findings can related hormones. Researchers of CSIR-Central
be reported in real-time using the smartphone’s wireless Food Technological Research Institute (CFTRI)
communications capabilities. Conventional methods of have found that capsaicin could increase the
algae detection and analysis are time consuming, and effect of obestatin and thus help reduce fat in the
body. Obestatin is a hormone which sends ‘stop
require eating’ signals. The hormone, produced in the
specialised digestive system, affects food intake by signaling
and costly through the brain. It affects accumulation of
equipment, glycerolipids through what biochemists term
as well as PPAR-gamma signaling. It is one of the many
as skilled satiety factors that send messages to the brain
operators saying the belly is full. Through their experiments,
to conduct the researchers have observed that capsaicin
water seems to increase the effect of obestatin.
sampling and
testing. The
portable and easy-to-use device developed by NUS costs
less than S$300, excluding the smartphone and weighs less
than 600 grams. The test kit is also highly sensitive, hence
only a small amount of water sample is needed to generate
reliable results. The NUS researchers are also developing
a new microfluidic chip that can be integrated with a
modified version of the current 3D-printed smartphone
platform to detect the presence of foodborne pathogens
such as salmonella and other infectious pathogens.

IITG develops sensor to check milk freshness

Indian Institute of Technology the ALP present in the milk. Upon coloured precipitate, that otherwise
Guwahati (IITG) researchers have treatment of the colour forming does not gives any colour in the
developed a paper based sensor compound BCIP to the captured absence of ALP. The intensity of
that can make assessment of complex of ALP forms a blue-green the colour indicates the amount
the freshness of milk by a simple of ALP present. The team used a
method and instantaneous. The smartphone to capture the image
team has developed a simple visual of the colour and used the RGB
detection technique to detect the (Red Green Blue) filter in the phone
quality of milk based on Alkaline to profile the colour obtained,
Phosphatase (ALP), a metalloprotein which could be co-related to the
found naturally in raw milk samples concentration of ALP present in the
and is considered an important test sample. The team has developed
biomarker in quality control of milk. a miniaturized detection kit and
The researchers have used simple has demonstrated the instrument-
filter paper, chemically modified free, in-kitchen applicability of the
it, and loaded it with a recognition kit for milk monitoring that will be
element anti-ALP, which captures commercialized soon.

48 ACADEMIC NEWS NUFFOODSSPECTRUM | December 2019 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in

NIN launches portal
for providing
nutritional information

In a unique experiment at on nutrition, access to free IIFPT opens
engaging with general public mobile apps and providing
on all aspects of nutrition, nutritional information in 10 ice-cream
Hyderabad-based National different languages developed
Institute of Nutrition (NIN) by NIN in collaboration with manufacturing
has launched the National Centre for Development
Information Communication of Advanced Computing plant
and Education (NICE) portal, (C-DAC) Hyderabad are part
specifically aimed at providing of the NICE portal. The unique The Indian Institute of Food
access to vast amounts of initiative is part of a concerted Processing Technology (IIFPT) has
content related nutrition effort by NIN to engage with opened a pilot scale ice-cream
over the internet. Educational the community and provide manufacturing plant on its campus
videos, printable material accurate information related in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, for the
based on a host of aspects to nutrition. production of a variety of both dairy
and non-dairy ice-creams. IIFPT has
urged the farmers, self-help groups
and budding entrepreneurs to use
the facility for hands-on training
and production. In addition, IIFPT
is undertaking joint research
programmes for developing
technologies in frontier areas
such as blockchain management,
robotics, artificial intelligence,
big data analytics and sensory
techniques in food industry.

NDRI puts focus on bioprocessing technologies

The ICAR-National Dairy on latest techniques used in the advanced trends of Bio-process
area of bioprocess technology; and Technology. Bioprocess may be
Research Institute, Karnal, (iii) Provide knowledge regarding considered as a process that uses

invites applications from faculty living cells or their components
(like bacteria, enzymes, etc.)
members and researchers of to obtain desired products.
Bioprocess Technology is
Indian universities/research commonly used in dairy
and food processing in Food
institutions for a 21 days fermentations. Application
of bioprocess technology in
training program sponsored by preparation of enzymes and
other metabolites may lead
Agricultural Education Division to developments of novel
ingredients for functional
of Indian Council of Agricultural foods formulations and bio-
preservations.
Research, New Delhi, scheduled

from January 15- February 4,

2020. The objectives of this

course are- (i) To acquaint the

participants about application

of bio-process Technology in

Dairy and Food industry; (ii) To

provide the hands-on training

NUFFOODSSPECTRUM | December 2019 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in EVENT DIARY 49

5th edition of International conference on Plant Genetics & Genomics

“Food and nutritional security in 21st century

will increasingly rely on modern genomics”
With a view to provide a
common platform to the
scientists and scholars
engaged in research on plant

germplasm, plant breeding, plant

biotechnology and genomics and

genome editing for sustainable food

production, the 5th edition of the

two day International conference

was organised by SELECTBIO in

the National Agricultural Science L-R: Henry Nguyen, Curators’ Distinguished Professor, University of Missouri, Columbia,
Complex (NASC Complex), Pusa, New USA; Deepak Pental, CSIR Distinguished Scientist and Former Vice-Chancellor, University
Delhi on October 17-18, 2019. It was of Delhi; Trilochan Mohapatra, Secretary, DARE and Director General, ICAR, India; KC
supported by the National Academy Bansal, Sr. Fellow, TERI-Deakin NanoBiotechnology Centre, and Former Director, NBPGR
of Agricultural Sciences (NAAS) and (ICAR), New Delhi; Sanjay Bajaj, Managing Director, Select Biosciences India.

International Rice Research Institute

(IRRI) as knowledge partner. presentations and discussed the Global experts mentioned

Prof. K.C. Bansal, Senior Fellow, way forward. Special emphasis was that while conventional breeding

TERI-Deakin Nano-Biotechnology given on Genome engineering methods guided and contributed to

Centre, The Energy Resource for revolutionizing agriculture, the crop yield improvements in the

Institute (TERI), New Delhi, and and the related regulatory issues 20th century, food and nutritional

Former Director, National Bureau of were discussed in an expert panel security in the 21st century will

Plant Genetic Resources (ICAR), Pusa, discussion headed by Prof. Deepak increasingly rely on modern

New Delhi was the Conference Chair. Pental and Prof. KC Bansal. genomics, data science and genome

Distinguished plant geneticist and The Conference highlighted that editing tools. The remarkable

biotechnologist Prof. Henry Nguyen, plant genetic resources for food progress in plant genomics and

University of Missouri, USA acted as and agriculture are fundamental computational biology offers

Co-chair of the conference. to enhancing food production and enough opportunities for mining

The conference was inaugurated nutritional security. The importance entire germplasm collections via

by the world-renowned plant of plant genetic resources has precision phenotyping, sequence-

molecular geneticist and genomics increased significantly in the recent based genotyping, developing

expert Dr Trilochan Mohapatra, years in the wake of sustainability genotype-phenotype associations,

Secretary, DARE and Director General, of agricultural production in a elucidating gene functions, and

Indian Council of Agricultural changing climate regime. identifying superior alleles and

Research (ICAR). The inaugural Globally, a total of about 7.4 haplotypes for crop improvement.

session was presided over by an million accessions are conserved Prof. Bansal said that currently

internationally reputed Brassica in 1750 Genebanks. India is home genome editing via CRISPR-Cas

geneticist and genomics expert Prof to the 2nd largest genebank system is leading the way for a new

Deepak Pental, Distinguished CSIR in the world and houses ~ 0.44 ‘Green Green Revolution’. However,

Scientist and Former Vice-Chancellor, million accessions of different crop he accentuated integration of

Delhi University. species. To meet the demand of germplasm use with conventional

Leading experts from within the projected 10 billion people by breeding, genetic engineering and

and outside the country in the field 2050, it is of paramount importance CRISPR-Cas based genome editing to

of plant genetic resources, plant to utilise the entire germplasm for develop high yielding, nutritionally

breeding, molecular breeding, plant developing improved crop cultivars rich, climate resilient crops in tune

genomics, genetic engineering using the tools of genomics and with Sustainable Development

and genome editing made key genome engineering. Goals (SDGs-2030).

50 EVENT DIARY NUFFOODSSPECTRUM | December 2019 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in

Bioprocessing India (BPI) December “Food products made
Conference 2019 14-16,
2019 by CSIR labs better than

Bioprocessing India, an annual conference, those available in markets”
endeavors to provide a unique forum to more than
500 Indian and international attendees for three days The Union Minister of Science and Technology,
of intensive presentations and beneficial discussions. Earth Sciences and Health & Family Welfare,
It will bring together leading universities, research Dr Harsh Vardhan has said food products made
institutions, agri-food processing, bioprocessing and by Council of Scientific and Industrial Research
biotech industries, making the conference a platform (CSIR) laboratories are better than those available
for aspiring bioprocessing, and biotechnologists to in the market. “CSIR products are much more
promote information exchange, networking and strategic cost-effective, tastier, have better nutritional
alliances. The theme of this year’s conference is value and do not have any side-effects”, he said
“Advances in bioprocessing of agri-food resources”. It will after inaugurating an Exhibition on Technologies
focus on advances in bioprocessing technologies from in Food Processing developed by CSIR, in New
synthetic biology to downstream processing to scale Delhi on November 13.
up and continuous processing with emphasis across
different verticals in the agri, food and bioresources. “All the machines and food products displayed
The conference will have plenary lectures, invited talks, here have been developed in CSIR laboratories
oral and poster presentations, webinars and panel especially those in Chandigarh, Mohali, Mysore
discussions. A CEO conclave has also been planned for and Palampur. I can guarantee that these
an effective industry and academia interaction. products are much more cost-effective, tasty and
 CSIR-Central Food Technological Research Institute have better nutritional value without any side-
(CFTRI), Mysuru, Karnataka effects, so these products are better compared
 http://bpic.cftri.com/bpic2019/index.php/bpic2019/ to other products available in the market in
bpic2019 every which way,” Dr Harsh Vardhan made the
remarks while visiting the Exhibition conducted
27th Indian Convention of Food December by CSIR jointly with Ministry of Food Processing
Industries (MoFPI) and the Associated Chambers
18-20, of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM).

Scientists and Technologists (ICFoST) 2019 Dr Harsh Vardhan said that such kind of
exhibitions need to be conducted across states,
The Department of Food Engineering & especially food processing hubs like Palampur
Technology, Tezpur University is hosting ICFoST-2019 and others. Besides, he urged the media to
(Indian Convention of Food Scientists and Technologists) spread the word about this exhibition so that
on the theme RAINBOW – Raising Agro-processing people in large numbers at least from Delhi-NCR
& Integrated Novel technologies for Boosting Organic could come and see for themselves and also taste
Wellness, with the intent of integrating the organic capital the food products made by CSIR laboratories.
of the country – North East India into the central chain
of food safety and food processing, thereby propagating In his address, Minister of State for Food
agro-processing and novel technologies to boost organic Processing Industries, RameswarTeli said, “MoFPI
wellness. ICFoST 2019 will bring in new developments provides 75 per cent subsidy to those setting
for Agro processing and enlighten the participants on up food processing industries in hilly regions
new regulations, novel technologies and future trends. and 50 per cent subsidy for those setting up
This conference will be the Rainbow for students food processing industry in North-East Region
specifically from farmer communities and food science of India.” He further said that Department of
and technology programmes so as to bring in Organic Food Processing Industries was working towards
Wellness and Prosperity to their processed and fresh promoting organic food consumption through
foods. various measures.
 Tezpur University, Assam
 https://www.icfost.org/page/27th-icfost-2019-at-tezpur In his address, ASSOCHAM’s Secretary
General, Deepak Sood impressed upon the need
to promote indigenous technology in the food
processing sector which is also the bedrock of
small-scale food processing enterprises that are
crucial to India’s development.