NuFFooDS Spectrum April 2019

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

Trash to Treasure

Milind Kokje The company feels that every food manufacturing
system discards usable food cast-offs from precious
Chief Editor peels and seeds rich in fiber, nutrients and nutraceuticals
which are abandoned. They can be exploited to develop
In days of discourse surrounding sustainability, innovative food products as they are nutritionally
‘waste to wealth’ is naturally a very commonly and valuable. One product that it conceptualised following
frequently used term. But when it comes to food, research and helped the manufacturing company
waste is still in very high in volume. Nearly a quarter during its development is wine grape infused water. It is
of the global edible food supply is wasted at different being produced by Israeli wine producer O.Vine.
points from harvest, production, processing, and the
consumption. It is estimated that globally 1.3 billion It is pure spring water infused with nutraceutical
tonnes of food, worth $ 1 trillion, which consumes 25 compounds derived from wine grape skins and seeds
per cent of world’s fresh water supply, goes waste. making it a refreshment drink. During wine processing
25 per cent of grapes, mostly skin and seeds, go waste,
The waste management is one of the major parts which are being used in this product. This way every
of food industries and still the problem is monumental food manufacturer can innovate new products by using
in many countries, including India. Hence globally, cast-offs. Besides providing benefits to the company
reducing food waste is a key initiative to achieve a in sales of those products plus reduction in discarding
sustainable food future. United Nations has included it the cast-offs, it will minimize the eco foot print. From
even in its sustainable development goals. canned vegetables, jams, frozen vegetables, frozen
meat products, baked goods and many other types of
Many researchers in their papers have been ready and processed food varities, the food loss varies
exploring and suggesting ways to covert waste into bio from one category to another. Each food manufacturer
gases, bio fuels, natural fertilizers etc. Food waste also can work on developing innovative food products
includes food loss which is little different than waste. depending upon on the type of food loss generated
Food loss occurs mainly during processing when part in the processing of food products the manufacturer
of the foods are cast-off due to the requirement of the is involved in. The concept will definitely open up
process. It includes precious peels, seeds, crush left over vast market opportunities in new areas of innovative,
after taking away juices etc. So, in a sense they are not a new food and beverages having many health related
complete waste, but, in fact, are rich in fiber, nutrients, ingredients and that too at the low cost.
nutraceuticals etc. They are reusable, if properly
preserved and used in time, but are discarded as waste The only issue is that of quantity because the food
most of the time. However, converting them into food loss from the manufacturing and processing facilities
again and that too healthy food is one more option that is only a tiny 5 per cent of the total food waste. Still,
is emerging now. considering the huge volume of food waste even 5
per cent will constitute a sizeable volume. It will make
Biomaterials in the food loss generated during available a host of new innovative food items, open
processing are source of proteins, lipids, starch, up a new market segment providing food companies
micronutrients, bioactive compounds and dietary fibers opportunity to convert their trash into treasure.
and also can generate food additives. They provide
opportunities for extraction of nutraceuticals and
bioactive compounds. Experts say even anti-nutritional
factors existing in some food loss items can also be
minimised through biotechnical processes to use them
as food additive.

One of the leading innovating companies in Israel,
Practical Innovations, has come out with an idea of
developing innovative food and beverage products from
the food loss, opening a vast area from waste to wealth.

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

Volume 6  |  Issue 8  |  April 2019
www.nuffoodsspectrum.in

Publisher & Managing Editor Production & Design Nutraceuticals Nutritionals
Ravindra Boratkar MM Activ Sci-Tech Communications Functional Foods Wellness
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Chief Editor Cover Design
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6 INSIDE NUFFOODSSPECTRUM | April 2019 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in

Cover Story 18

FOOD TECH START-UPS
SET TO TRANSFORM
HEALTH INDUSTRY

Although the Indian food industry is still behind in implementing as big data, artificial intelligence (AI),
machine learning (ML), blockchain, 3D printing etc. technological advancements as compared to their
global counterparts, it is gradually climbing the success ladder. With a population of 1.2 billion and the

growing prevalence of diabetes, obesity and undernourishment, India offers an ideal place to bring
to market innovative food and nutrition solutions for attaining good health. On the occasion of World
Health Day, celebrated on April 7, NuFFooDS Spectrum covers profiles of seven innovative food-tech

startups that are all set to transform the food and health sector.

Special Q&A 28

Kadaknath -black chicken meat “We have young budding
redefining superfood sector entrepreneurs opting for
Kadaknath’s farming”

25 Dr I. S Tomar,

Senior Scientist and Head,
Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Jhabua
(Madhya Pradesh)

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

REGULARS

Editorial 04

Video Snippets 08

Special 30 Policy and Regulatory News 09

Celebrating World Pulses Day Finance News 11

Company News 12

Start-Up News 14

World News 16

Supplier News 43

People News 45

Science News 47

33 Academic News 48

Tech interventions improving Event Diary 49
sustainable pulses output
11 48
36
49
“Innovation and
staying relevant Q&A 41
are most important”
“Center will support
Gaurav Aggarwal, FSSAI in ensuring food is
CEO One Life Nutraceuticals safe and nutritious to
& Director, Lasons India India’s 1.3 billion citizens”

38 Amit Chopra,
Managing Director- India
“India is way ahead and Middle East, Thermo Fisher Scientific
in understanding
importance of nutrition
than western society”

Gary Hunter,
Head of Department for Culinary Arts at
Westminster Kingsway College, London

S2B 39

What is a strong
Nutraceutical Brand?

Dr R B Smarta,
MD, Interlink Marketing Consultancy
Pvt. Ltd. and Hon. Secretary HADSA
(Health Foods and Dietary
Supplements Association)

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

Ritika Agrawal, Meaty Development
Co-Founder, TBH Globally, companies like Memphis Meats and Mosa
Foods talks about Meat are pioneering the research for cell-based
the awareness on meat products. But countries like India, China, and
gluten Intolerance Brazil, projected to be among the world’s largest
meat producers and consumers in the next 20 years,
Scan the QR Code » will probably see the greatest growth. Dozens more
companies and billions more invested in the sector
Dr Maya Warren, can accelerate this growth.
Senior Director,
R&D, Tastemaster - Varun D, Mumbai
with Cold Stone
Creamery points out Linking agriculture
the sweet side of The agricultural sector presents key opportunities for
food science improving nutrition and health. But this connection
is often not given due attention, despite parallel
Scan the QR Code » initiatives across the three sectors.

Abhishek Shah, - Srishti Dev, New Delhi
CEO, Wellthy
Therapeutics shares Budding Seaweed
his views on the Seaweed is an excellent source of some essential
concept of nutrition elements. Mainly, iron and iodine are in high
related health concentration. Seaweeds could be prospective as
behaviours functional foods and also producers of mineral
nutraceuticals. Please write more on this.
Scan the QR Code »
- Krishna Ratan, Pune

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opinions on the content.

– Editor

Please send your feedback to
[email protected]

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

FSSAI issues guidelines to FSSAI releases
apply GMP for milk products
new directives
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued a
guidance document on Food Safety Management System (FSMS) to on functional
implement GMP (good manufacturing practices)/GHP (good hygiene
practices) requirements for milk and milk products. This document foods
is applicable for food businesses involved in the dairy sector, which
includes all milk and milk products such as liquid milk, UHT (ultra-high FSSAI has issued a new
temperature) milk, condensed milk, fermented milk and flavoured milk, directive regarding use
ghee, butter, cream, whole milk powder and skimmed milk powder, of minerals and vitamins
curd, yoghurt, buttermilk, paneer, and cheese. The document contains in functional foods and
practical approaches which a business should adopt to ensure food foods for special dietary
safety. Based on the product category, the document can be used by the use, nutraceuticals and
food business operators (FBOs) as per the operations applicable to them. health supplements, etc.,
wherein it has asked the food
FSSAI, CHIFSS, NIFTEM business operators (FBOs)
collaborate on Food Safety Sciences to use nutrients in limits as
prescribed. The limits has been
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has joined put out by FSSAI based on a
hands with CHIFSS (CII-HUL Initiative on Food Safety Sciences) with the study conducted by the Indian
purpose of driving activities related to science based food safety in the Council of Medical Research
country, to strengthen protection of consumers and create an innovative (ICMR) and Codex, which
environment for the industry. This pioneering partnership plans to prescribed the recommended
promote collaborations between Industry, Scientific Community, dietary allowance (RDA).
Academia, Key Opinion Formers and Domain Experts with FSSAI to After having received
co-produce food safety as a shared responsibility. A Memorandum several representations of
of Understanding was signed between FSSAI and CHIFSS on June 24, the stakeholders seeking
2016 on the occasion of the launch of the CHIFSS. In this regard, a clarification on the RDA values,
technical workshop was held recently at the National Institute of Food FSSAI’s scientific committee
Technology Entrepreneurship and Management (NIFTEM), Haryana. has looked upon it and a
collated document was made
for the reference of FBOs.

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

PM lays foundation for gift milk scheme Centre to
relaunch
Prime Minister Narendra Modi 20,000 Anganwadi kendras in the Gram
recently inaugurated 'gift milk' state will be given 100 ml milk Samridhi
scheme or 'Kanha Dugdh Yojana' twice a week for free. Under the Yojana to
in Jharkhand under which scheme, flavoured, sweet, skimmed support food
poor and tribal children will milk powder will be made available processing
be provided packaged milk in to the 20,000 Anganwadi kendras units
their schools. According to the across Uttarakhand under the
PM, this new milk scheme will Amrit Yojana. The food processing
help deal with the problem of ministry is working on
malnutrition among children in a new scheme called
the state and will also further give Gram Samridhi Yojana to
strength to National Nutrition bolster the unorganised
Campaign being conducted food processing sector
by the Central Government. concentrated in rural
Following this, Uttarakhand Chief areas. About 66 per cent
Minister Trivendra Singh Rawat of unorganised food
has launched the Mukhyamantri processing units are in
Anchal Amrit Yojana few days back, rural areas and of these,
under which 2.5 lakh children at 80 per cent were run by
families. The Rs 3,000 crore
Niranjan Jyoti opens Sikaria scheme has been funded
Mega Food Park in Tripura by the World Bank. The
centre will help cottage
Union Minister of State for Food Processing Industries Sadhvi Niranjan Jyoti industry, farmer producers’
recently inaugurated Sikaria Mega Food Park Pvt Ltd at Tulakona in Agartala. organisation and
This is the first Mega Food Park in the state of Tripura. The Mega Food Park individual food processors
has been set up in 50 acre of land at the cost of Rs 87.45 crore. Government to increase capacity,
of India has accorded approval of a financial assistance of Rs 50 crore to the upgrade technology
project. The food park is having facilities of fully operational dry warehouse besides skill improvement,
entrepreneurship
and material handling of 5000 MT, development and
Pineapple Canning and Pulping Line of strengthening the farm-
2 MT/Hr each, Packing Unit, Ripening to-market supply chain.
Chambers of 40 TPD, Cold Storage In the initial phase the
of 5000 MT with Frozen Storage of scheme will be running
1000 MT, Quality Control, Research in Uttar Pradesh, Andhra
& Development Centre etc. It also Pradesh, Maharashtra
has fully developed Industrial plots and Punjab for a five-year
for setting up processing units and period and thereafter
Standard Design Factory (SDF) Sheds replicated in other states.
to provide ready to move in facility for The scheme will be run
micro and small enterprises. The park at the cluster level where
also has a common administrative food processing units or
building for office and other uses by the entrepreneurs and 5 PPCs at Sonamura, individual players can
Hrisyamukh, Chandipur, Manu and Budhjung Nagar having facilities for primary apply for the subsidy
processing and storage near the farms. The Mega Food Park will leverage an online.
additional investment of about Rs 250 crores in 25-30 food processing units in
the park and generate a turnover of about Rs 450-500 Crore annually. The Park
will also provide direct and indirect employment to 5000 people and benefit
about 25000 farmers in the CPC and PPC catchment areas.

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

Convergent leads $22M Cargill to invest
investment in Hindustan Foods
$20M to support
Convergent Finance LLP joins hands with Hindustan Foods
Limited, India's foremost contract manufacturer for the food biz in Rajasthan
FMCG industry, by leading an investment aggregating Rs
1,540 million for a significant minority stake of between Cargill plans to invest $20 million to set up a
20 per cent and 26 per cent (on a fully converted basis). green-field premix plant in Kota, Rajasthan.
Customary closing conditions, including approval of Cargill strives to partner in Rajasthan’s growth
shareholders will apply. Hindustan Foods manufactures by bringing its global expertise in food and
a range of products with expertise in food and non-food, agriculture production to the state. The
extending to cosmetics, personal care and home care company has strategically chosen the state of
products. With factories across six locations, Hindustan Rajasthan to build this plant, as it is one of the
Foods offers reliable, pan-India contract manufacturing more progressive states in the country, offering
services to top FMCG customers who are looking to a good business environment, availability of
minimize cost while maximizing product quality in the quality raw materials, required talent and a
post-GST environment. The company was founded in strong customer base. The state-of-the-art
1988, went public in 1989 and has been under the current plant will be built on 15 acres of land in Tathed
management since 2013. Sameer Kothari, MD of Hindustan village of Kota district. It will feature a monthly
Foods is hopeful that the company will benefit greatly by manufacturing capacity of 7,500 tons of animal
Convergent’s global network of relationships, strategic nutrition products and supplement to serve
insights and operational expertise. Hindustan Foods will customers in the state, entire North India
use the proceeds of the investment to expand capacities and also export markets. Cargill’s proposed
to serve customers, thus creating value for all stakeholders. investment supports the development of
the industry, farmers and communities in
and around Kota. It will also help the animal
husbandry sector, including livestock farmers,
by generating more than 150 jobs in the region,
with both direct and indirect employment in
the next three to five years.

PepsiCo opens Rs 550Cr unit in Punjab

PepsiCo India’s bottling partner water, Gatorade and Lipton ice tea.
Varun Beverages (VBL) recently Spread over 41 acres, the company
announced opening of its Rs 550 has commenced trial production in
crore facility in Pathankot, Punjab, this green-field production facility,
which would roll out products which will be the first fully backward
from the cola major’s beverage integrated facility to produce
portfolio. The integrated facility will PepsiCo’s beverage portfolio items.
produce PepsiCo’s Tropicana range Besides, the facility is also expected
of fruit juices, dairy-based products, to create over 5,000 direct and
carbonated soft drinks, Aquafina indirect jobs in the state.

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

DSM, Cargill establish sweet partnership

Royal DSM, a global science-based Campus Delft (Netherlands). As food great-tasting sweetener options.
company in Nutrition, Health and and beverage producers look to Avansya will produce highly sought-
Sustainable Living, has recently significantly reduce calories in their after, sweet-tasting molecules, such
announced the establishment of offerings to consumers, they are in as steviol glycosides Reb M and Reb
AvansyaV.O.F.The 50-50 joint venture need of non-artificial, zero-calorie, D through fermentation, giving food
is a partnership between Cargill and beverage manufacturers an
and DSM. Both parties announced even more scalable, sustainable and
their intention to establish this low cost-in-use solution than if these
joint venture on November 8, 2018 same molecules were extracted from
subject to regulatory approvals. the stevia leaf. Avansya’s sweeteners
Avansya will produce zero- will be produced at a fermentation
calorie, great-tasting sweeteners facility at the Cargill site in Blair and
through fermentation and will Avansya will market its sweeteners
be headquartered at the Biotech under the EverSweet brand.

Cremica to foray into
beverages segment

Cremica will soon be entering quality, unveiled an array of Kemin launches
the bar syrup category in products. The company has novel food tech
association with Maison Routin come up with 9 new flavors digital calculator
of France with the launch of of Mayonnaise which is the
'Bonheur', a specialized range of combination of both classic Kemin Industries, a global ingredient
syrups which will be targeted Indian and International manufacturer has added a new Oxidation
at bars and cafes. The syrups flavors to meet the discerning Stability Index (OSI) calculator to its
were unveiled at the recently taste of Indian customers. For website for food technologies. The digital
held exhibition AAHAR 2019 the health conscious people, slider tool allows formulators to select
in New Delhi. Bonheur syrups Cremica has an exclusive the desired number of Oxidative Stability
will delight the Indian market offering in the form of Sugarlite Index (OSI) hours and then provides
with their perfect balance Salad dressing, which comes in shelf-life calculations for various fats
of French aromas matched 14 different flavors and is low and oils. This enables manufacturers to
with local palate. Cremica, on glycemic index, contains determine the ideal oil and antioxidant
known for its innovative healthy sugars and has omega solution combination they need to meet
offerings and commitment to balance. cost targets and shelf-life goals. GT-FORT,
Kemin’s oil-soluble green tea extract,
gives manufacturers a label-friendly,
cost-effective solution to help meet
their needs. The GT-FORT product line of
plant extracts for fats and oils assists with
oxidation control, significantly delaying
lipid oxidation, which lengthens the
shelf life of food and maintains brand
consistency.

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

Azelis strengthens position in Indian food segment

Azelis has announced that it has acquired the distribution
activities of MK Ingredients & Specialties and SSD Industries
in India. The transaction sees Azelis acquire 100 per cent of
MK's distribution activities. The Indian distributor is a family
owned company whose employees and management will join
Azelis. MK is well respected in the local market and has strong
relationships with its customers and principals. It covers food
applications such as confectionery, bakery and dairy. Non-food
segments include paints and coatings as well as chemicals for
industrial markets. Azelis will also take over MK’s food laboratory.
In 2018, Azelis opened three application laboratories in India,
servicing the Personal Care, Food and CASE markets. According
the Azelis, combining its food lab with MK’s modern and fully
equipped food lab will complement its technical expertise,
especially in the dairy and bakery sectors.

Hatsun Agro Sea Lab to step up
opens new food testing quality
outlet in
Maharashtra The Kochi-based Sea Lab, a division of Seafood Park (India) Ltd, plans
to step up quality testing for food items generated across the country.
Hatsun Agro, the dairy products Seafood Park was established under the joint venture of Marine Products
maker, has launched a new Export Development Authority (MPEDA), Kerala Industrial Infrastructure
outlet in Maharashtra. This is Development Corporation (KINFRA) and prominent members of the
Hatsun Agro’s 2,500th facility Seafood Exporters Association. The decision comes in the wake of
in India. The new outlet has receiving encouraging response from the export fraternity to carry out
been set up in Kolhapur. It quality testing for seafood export consignments. Some of its growing
would retail the entire gamut clientèle are from Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra. It
of products such as Arokya is a quality food testing laboratory and Sea Lab is accredited with National
Milk, curd, milk beverage, Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL),
among others. According to Export Inspection Council (EIC), Food Safety and Standards Authority
the company, retail expansion of India (FSSAI) and the Kerala Pollution Control Board. Besides seafood
is a key step in meeting the consignments, the company has started testing of commodities such as
increasing demand for the food products, spices, drinking water, bakery foods, fast food both for
products and also to reach new exports and domestic market.
consumers in smaller cities as
well. The company remains
focused on expanding its retail
foothold in existing as well as
in new markets. The company
eyes opening new outlets in
Maharashtra, Kerala, Odisha
and Chhattisgarh. It is further
planning to expand its presence
in Tamil Nadu, Karnataka,
Andhra Pradesh, Telangana,
Puducherry and Goa.

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

WeWork launches lab focused on food startups

WeWork’s Lab unit has announced a food ecosystem including artificial consumer goods, hospitality and
new incubator programme dubbed intelligence, robotics, kitchen other categories. The fee starts at
WeWork Food Labs. WeWork is appliances, supply chain, agricultural $300 a month and gives members
launching a Food Labs membership tech, distribution software, access to the usual office necessities
programme and an accelerator plus an R&D kitchen, pantry, and
programme. With the Food Labs storage, merchandising showcase
membership programme, members and tasting table, event space and a
will get access to workspace and podcast and photo studio. Members
a global platform dedicated to also get access to a dedicated lab
startups that are trying to change manager, weekly workshops and
or impact the future of food. events, pitch competitions and
WeWork is supporting early-stage its global network of experts and
startups covering all aspects of the industry partnerships.

&Me raises further WayCool Foods
makes acquisition
investment from announcement

Matrix Partners India Chennai-based food-tech start-up WayCool
Foods and Products has recently announced its
Bengaluru-based food and beverage (F&B) startup &Me acquisition of the physical distribution business
has recently raised a follow-on investment round from of Aalgro Foods, a Bengaluru-based B2B company
existing investor Matrix Partners India. Consumer VC Fund in the fruit retail packing and distribution space.
Sauce.vc also participated in the round. The company The acquisition is in line with WayCool’s aim to
will be using the freshly raised capital to expand its build a seamless national distribution channel,
team, scale operations nationally, and widen its product with deep sourcing and value-added capabilities
offering. Matrix has invested Rs 5.6 crore in the startup. into specific food product categories. With this
The brand &Me blends ayurveda and modern science to acquisition, WayCool will now be able to distribute
manufacture 'bioactive lifestyle beverages' for women. to an expanded customer base in Southern India,
The company targets solving lifestyle challenges and and support both online and offline modern
discomforts associated with menstruation, beauty, fat retailers with a range of premium packaged fruits.
metabolism, and Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), The acquisition also brings forward integration
among many more. capabilities to WayCool.

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

Omnivore, AgFunder invest
$4M in agri-tech startup

Gurugram-based online startups in the USA, Canada, Tweak & Eat
Europe and Australia, first
marketplace for farm products investment in India. The startup App crosses
will use the capital to expand its
and services DeHaat has raised network of farmers in Bihar, Uttar landmark
Pradesh and Odisha and to launch
$4 million in pre-Series A funding farm credit and crop insurance milestone
services in the coming year.
round from impact investor Owned by Green AgRevolution Tweak & Eat’, an AI-powered
Pvt Ltd, DeHaat technology- wellness App has crossed a
Omnivore and US-based agri- based platform offers end-to-end landmark milestone of 1,00,000
agricultural services to farmers, “tweaks” just in the last 6 months.
tech-focused investor AgFunder. including distribution of high- It’s been just a year since its
quality agri inputs, customised launch. This online traffic has
This is AgFunder’s, which has farm advisory services, access been propelled by its four newly
to financial services and market launched AI-enabled features:
previously backed agri-tech linkages for farmers to sell their My Nutrition & Nutrition Labels,
produce. Tweak Wall, AI based Diet Plans
(AiDP) and TweTox. ‘Tweak & Eat’
D-Alive introduces wellness App empowers health-conscious
solution for diabetics users with ‘Just-in-time’ meal
advice from certified nutritionists.
D-Alive Health Pvt Ltd., India's first holistic wellness solutions provider The App caters to 3,50,000 users
for diabetes, has announced an interesting first move. The company has across India, Singapore, Malaysia,
introduced breakthrough sauces and salad dressings specially designed Indonesia and the Philippines. The
for people with diabetes, making it the country's maiden offering. App’s developer is PurpleTeal, Inc.,
D-Alive's sauces and vinaigrettes are made with 100 per cent natural a leading US-based mobile Health
ingredients, completely free from all sort of adulterations, which otherwise (mHealth) service provider. ‘Tweak
is a constant worry when such condiments are consumed on a day-to- & Eat’ helps users make informed
day basis. They are a nutritious mix of jamun and/or coconut vinegar choices in the meal they are just
followed by various spices, seeds and herbs known for many medicinal about to eat, and helps them
values and anti-diabetic properties. The highlight being jamun vinegar manage their weight with the right
which is a very healthy alternative to distilled vinegar. The jamun seeds foods and portion sizes based on
powder contains jamboline (a type of glucose) that helps to control the their individual goals and body
conversion of starch into sugar; along with reduction of many diabetes parameters. It is extremely simple
complications like frequent urination. to use, and takes on most of the
effort involved in healthy eating.
Tweak & Eat supports integration
with devices like fitbit, iWatch
etc. and enables personalized
reminders to be set for breakfast,
lunch, dinner and other meal-times.

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

EU hands over quality FAO-SDC sign
agreement for improving
testing equipment to Nepal food security in Pakistan

The European Union has handed over equipment The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the
worth 1.2 million euro to the Nepal government for Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC)
facilitating laboratory testing and inspection of food have signed an agreement to develop the first national
products. The equipment was provided under the State of Food Security and Nutrition in Pakistan (SOFI)
EU Funded 'Trade and Private Sector Development report. This will be the first national level SOFI report
Project'. Veronica Cody, EU Ambassador to Nepal, prepared along the lines of FAOs annual flagship
handed over the ownership of the equipment to report on global and regional level. The report will
the officials of the Nepal Bureau of Standards and provide timely and accurate data that will enable the
Metrology and the Department of Food Technology government to make informed and evidence based
and Quality Control. The machines include a range decisions by monitoring food supply, demand and other
of state-of-the-art laboratory testing and inspection key indicators for assessing the overall food security
devices for food products, cooking gas cylinders situation. The strategic partnership between FAO and
and taxi meters. This will raise domestic demand for SDC will strengthen national capacities for managing
products, as consumers are assured of quality and and utilizing food security related information. The
safety, and also allow Nepal to meet the standards national SOFI report is in line with government of
required for export to the international market, thus Pakistan’s development agenda and will support
contributing to increasing its trade and boosting decision and policy makers in designing their efforts to
the economy. reduce poverty and improve food security and nutrition
in Pakistan.

Sri Lanka to boost Ceylon black tea exports to China

Sri Lanka aims to increase exports raise its exports percentage into the
of its popular Ceylon black tea to Chinese market this year. With China's
large population, even if Sri Lanka
China and will launch a mega could capture a small percentage of
digital advertising campaign its market for its high quality Ceylon
across China by May. black tea, this would be a boost to
According to the Chairman Sri Lanka's tea exports. Following
of Sri Lanka Tea Board China, the government also hopes
Lucille Wijewardena, to launch its tea campaigns in more
China is one of the leading than 10 other countries later in 2019
markets for Sri Lankan tea and 2020.
and the government aimed to

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

FAO, GAIN to scale up joint IBM
efforts targeting healthy diets
blockchain
The FAO (Food and Agriculture Agenda. The partnership between
Organisation of the United Nations) FAO and GAIN envisages support based Food
and the Global Alliance for Improved for policy at country level, and
Nutrition (GAIN) have agreed to join increased engagement of the private Trust enters
forces to increase the availability sector in improving food systems by
and affordability of nutritious food supporting SMEs in bringing more Australia
for all in developing countries. nutritious foods to market.
The partnership aims to enable Australia’s largest 100
inclusive and efficient agricultural per cent family-owned
and food systems, focusing on new meat processor, Thomas
approaches which engage small Foods International, and
and medium enterprises (SMEs) to largest independent
promote market-based solutions as grocery retailer, Drakes
a key tool for improved nutrition. Supermarket have signed
FAO and GAIN will also work to make on as members of the
urban food systems more nutrition- blockchain-based food
sensitive, through support to GAIN's ecosystem IBM Food
Urban Governance for Nutrition Trust. The successful
Programme and FAO's Urban Food pilot can trace the
entire lifecycle of a food
USDA, FDA to regulate human food product, from region to
products from cell lines of livestock plate, and update the
record in real time. The
The U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Food Safety and Inspection Service two South Australian
(FSIS) and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' (HHS) Food and organisations are the
Drug Administration (FDA) have announced a formal agreement to jointly oversee first in Australia to pilot
the production of human food products derived from the cells of livestock and IBM Food Trust using the
poultry. FSIS and FDA released a formal agreement to address the regulatory IBM Blockchain Platform,
oversight of human food produced using this new technology. The formal reducing traceability
agreement describes the oversight roles and responsibilities for both agencies times from three days to
three seconds. The pilot
and how the agencies will involved tracing the origin
collaborate to regulate the of a piece of steak back
development and entry to one of four individual
of these products into farms. IBM Food Trust uses
commerce. This shared blockchain technology
regulatory approach will to enable participating
ensure that cell-cultured retailers, suppliers and
products derived from the cell growers to collaborate
lines of livestock and poultry based on a shared view
are produced safely and are of food ecosystem
accurately labeled. Under data to enable greater
the formal agreement, the traceability, transparency
agencies agree upon a joint and efficiency. This
regulatory framework wherein FDA oversees cell collection, cell banks, and cell is important as it
growth and differentiation. A transition from FDA to FSIS oversight will occur provides increased data
during the cell harvest stage. FSIS will oversee the production and labeling of granularity, which is an
human food products derived from the cells of livestock and poultry. enabler for several use
cases.

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

Food Tech
Start-ups Set to

TRANSFORM
HEALTH

INDUSTRY

The World Economic Forum 2018 report states that as agriculture will not take away jobs but enhance
the food sector is decades behind other sectors in productivity”, highlights Prof V Kamakoti, Chairman, AITF.
adopting technology advancements particularly in
low income and developing countries. As such, food and On the industry front, Microsoft has developed an
agricultural sectors have attracted fewer investments and AI-Sowing App powered by Cortana Intelligence Suite
technology focused business innovation. including ML to empower the farmers in India. As a result,
AI and ML are being used to grow better food by creating
The report also points out that since 2010, $14 billion optimal growing conditions and monitoring the effects
has been invested in 1000 food systems focused startups of variables like UV light, salinity, heat, and water stress,
globally as compared to $145 billion investment in 18000 detecting plant diseases and pests, improving soil health,
healthcare startups. But the upcoming trends reveal that and much more.
new technologies such as big data, artificial intelligence
(AI), machine learning (ML), blockchain, 3D printing etc can Likewise, food processing companies are leveraging AI
disrupt this pattern and transform the food industry. to formulate new products. ML and predictive algorithms
are being used by food processing companies to model
“There is no denying the fact that our future economy consumer flavor preferences and predict how well
depends on technologies such as AI. We can now find the they respond to new tastes. Very recently, McCormick
impact of AI in almost all sectors that includes automobile & Company and IBM have announced a collaboration
sectors, education, healthcare sector, etc. Now AI has put its pioneering the use of AI in flavour and food product
massive impact in the food industries as well. It is likely that development. Another major player already exploring this
in the coming days, AI technology will be used more and technology is Coca-Cola. The beverage leader has installed
more by the food processing industry for improving food an AI-enabled technology in its plant with the help of
production”, shares Hemendra Singh, Managing Director, which the customers can personalise their soft drinks.
The NineHertz.
One of the most advanced AI applications in the food
An encouraging step taken in this direction by the industry is being carried out for food sorting. It can be quite
government of India comes in the form of the ‘Artificial time consuming to sort fresh produce in order to prepare
Intelligence Task Force (AITF)’ constituted by the Ministry it for the manufacturing of canned and bagged goods.
of Commerce and Industry. The task force has identified Norway based MNC Tomra has developed a food sorting
10 domains in India, including Agriculture and Food machine which uses sensor-based optical food sorting
Processing for the implementation of AI. solutions with machine learning functionalities.

“AI should be seen as a scalable problem solver in Another utilization of ML and AI is being done in the
India rather than only as a booster of economic growth. area of food safety. Japanese food producer Kewpie Corp. is
Implementation of AI in labour intensive sectors such using an open-source software library for ML applications

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

called TensorFlow, to quickly inspect ingredients that go network of its kind, connecting growers, processors,
into baby food products. Kewpie has tied up with analytics distributors, and retailers through a permissioned,
firm BrainPad Inc. to train ML algorithms to recognize the permanent and shared record of food system data.
ingredients.
Adding to this list of disruption is another important
These new-age technologies are also helping with and ground-breaking applications of 3D printing. The
supply chain management by testing and monitoring concept of 3D food printing represents a new forge in
food safety products at every step of the supply chain. A the food industry to manufacture new food products of
key element of the supply chain in the food industry is variable shapes and color and with particular composition.
ensuring that the food is transported safely from the farm
all the way to the store shelf. Symphony RetailAI is one such “People all over the world suffer from diseases which
global company that is using AI to help retailers monitor require monitoring of their diet as part of treatment. The
demand accurately, ensuring they never get a surplus of best possible option to solve this problem is to have a
food that may go to waste later on. customized diet plan for each individual. 3-Dimensional
(3D) food printing is an ideal technology which can lead
Food wastage is a major challenge facing the industry to such mass customization of food. Apart from health
currently. A consistent influx of food waste is an inevitable benefits 3D food printing technology in food sector has
problem for food businesses. But the good news is a great potential to fabricate 3D constructs with complex
that technology is gradually coming to the rescue and geometries, elaborated textures and tailored nutritional
developing solutions to try to limit food waste. contents”, mentions Dr Alok Raghav, Research Scientist, IIT-
Kanpur.
“Food wastage happens because our food supply chain
is complex and chaotic. There is very little visibility up and Keeping the health aspect as the top priority,
down the supply chain. More often than not, the wrong the industry is utilizing these new technologies to
thing and sometimes the wrong quantity of the right thing develop advanced computational methods and data
is sent to the wrong place at the wrong time. That means analytics platforms for tailoring the future nutritional
a lot of spoilage and wastage. In coming few years, by recommendations for promoting health. Nestle has joined
uniting powerful technologies such blockchain, Internet this trend for personalised nutrition with a blend of artificial
of Things (IoT) and AI, we will be able to create a real zero intelligence, DNA testing and the modern obsession
wastage supply chain that delivers fresher food”, says Sriram with Instagramming food. Nestle Wellness Ambassador
Raghavan, Vice President, IBM Research and CTO, IBM India. platform offers nutritional advice to customers based on
their dietary habits and blood and DNA tests reports. Close
In 2018, IBM launched a Food Trust that uses by, American soup company Campbell Soup has invested
blockchain technology to create unprecedented visibility $32million in a startup Habit which uses DNA and blood
and accountability in the food supply chain. It is the only profiles to make diet recommendations, as well as offering
nutritional coaching and tailored meal-kits.

Although the Indian food industry is still behind in
implementing these technological advancements as
compared to their global counterparts, it is gradually
climbing the success ladder. With a population of 1.2
billion and the growing prevalence of diabetes, obesity
and undernourishment, India offers an ideal place to bring
to market innovative food and nutrition solutions for
attaining good health.

On the occasion of World Health Day, celebrated on
April 7, NuFFooDS Spectrum brings to you profiles of seven
innovative food-tech startups that are all set to transform
the food and health sector. Startups such as Spoonshot,
Nymble and Tweak & Eat are developing AI and ML based
solutions, while robotic technology is being explored by
Mechanical Chef and Euphotic Labs. WayCool Foods is
leveraging technology to manage the supply chain on
one hand and Global 3D Labs is moving ahead with its
revolutionary 3D printing solution on the other.

Dr Manbeena Chawla
(With inputs from Kalyani Sharma)

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

Global 3D Labs (2014) Tweak & Eat
(2018)
 Founders
Gopal Krishna, Aviral Kedia, Manish Amin, M. Shreyas Kudva  Founders
 Overview Narayanan Ram, Anand Subra
3D printing chocolates for baking industry  Overview
AI-powered nutrition platform
As innovations in the 3D printing world continue to spring forth
from creative minds all over the world, Global 3D Labs is coming up Tweak & Eat has come up with
revolutionary new products bound to change the way 3D printers are a unique nutrition platform
perceived. An innovative product based on artificial intelligence
brought out by the startup is the and analytics. Launched
Chocobot, a chocolate 3D printer. in 2018, the AI powered
Chocobot is India’s first and the nutrition and wellness App
world’s second commercially connects subscribers to
available 3D printer. It can print certified nutritionists who
directly with tempered chocolate provide real-time, ‘just-before-
including white, dark, milk etc. It you-eat’ personalized advice
features a modular head which to help subscribers achieve
is capable of printing molds for their health goals. The App
the complicated designs which caters to 3,50,000 users across
can then be used with liquid India, Singapore, Malaysia,
chocolate. The journey took off Indonesia and Philippines.
well for the startup with many The App has been designed
feedbacks coming in from the with support from PurpleTeal,
confectionary sector. However, a major challenge that is Inc., a leading US-based
currently obstructing the product’s growth is the issue of tempering. The mobile Health (mHealth)
team soon realized that the chocolate 3D printers is not suitable for mass service provider. Tweak &
production yet. Global 3D Labs is looking ahead to collaborate with the Eat is training and using
scientific community in order to solve the various challenges the startup Tweakyfai, its proprietary AI
is encountering with 3D printing chocolates. platform to nutritionists do a
better job of giving real-time
◆ Manish Amin advice and information to
Co-Founder & Director, Global 3D Labs users. Tweakyfai automates
“We are a research driven startup and work some tweak activities such
towards developing technologies that make as generating nutrition
additive manufacturing more sensible to labels and escalating certain
various industries. We are into manufacturing, exceptions to nutritionists. It
sales, and servicing of 3D printers. Our manufacturing facility is is currently able to identify
located in Hyderabad. We have grown organically. Our customers a large number of foods
are the biggest marketers for us and they have been pushing our with more than 90 per cent
products through referrals. For our chocobot product, we have confidence, and it will only
developed collaborations with few hotels and confectionaries. get better with time.
Chocobot is like a regular 3D printer that produces chocolates in
different shapes and sizes. As manufacturers, we are aware that
3D printed chocolate can lose its shape due to temperature and
gravity. Currently, we are working on fixing these issues. Hopefully
the market will be able to access our sweet success very soon.”

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

◆ Anand Subra Euphotic Labs (2018)
Co-Founder, Tweak & Eat
“The best opportunity to make a  Founder
difference in healthly eating is the Yatin Varachhia
meal you are having! You cannot do  Overview
anything about Implementing robotics for automated cooking
meals you’ve
already Euphotic Labs is a startup initiated by an alum of
eaten, and the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru.
you can, at The startup is developing a device that cooks
best, only Indian curries, rice dishes and dals automatically.
plan to do The device is of the size of a microwave
something and has two cooking process, boiling
about meals and pan frying. It can boil the lentil
you’re going to eat in the future. first and use the same for pan frying
This can work if you have a to make Dal or Sambhar. The proof of concept prototype is ready and
nutritionist behind your back, it has been cooking Kadai Paneer, Chhole, Poha, Upma, cabbage curry
advising you on what to eat less etc. The startup is moving ahead with a support from the Department
of, more of, swap, etc. to make of Science and Technology grant NIDHI-PRAYAS from IKP-EDEN. It has a
this meal healthier for you. While team of 5 people on board who are expertise in different sectors such
there are numerous Apps that as prototyping, nutrition, mechanics etc. Currently,
cater to ‘foodies’ or offer after- Euphotic is in the product development phase and
the-fact coaching on how to eat the product will be launched in August 2020.
better, or analysis of food intake,
connect users with nutritionists, ◆ Yatin Varachhia
etc., we pride ourselves on the Founder, Euphotic Labs
fact that we hand-hold individuals “Firstly, F&B ecosystem is going through a huge
just before they eat. We are using transformation right now thanks to an increase in disposable
AI to apply a large number of income. What we show is that 30 per cent of the increased
variables simultaneously, and disposable income is going towards new food habits (eating out,
make recommendations to users eating healthy etc.). Technology is going to help in taping and
about various food choices and creating new behaviours. On average, an urban Indian eats two
options. It can also peruse users’ times in a month outside, which is going to increase to 5 times in
tweaks and other data, look for the next two years. This is the right time to create a McDonald of
trends and perform other analyses India! On the other side, food automation is coming in a big way
and proactively suggest course- worldwide. Now, we have fully automatic burger making restaurant
corrections and such. In short, "Creator", the automatic alternative of "Chipotle Mexican Grill" called
AI can help us provide a vastly "Spyce kitchen", Salad making a robot "Sally", Sandwich making
superior customer experience.” robot "Bistrobot". Pizza automation provider "Zume Inc" is doing very
well. In India, It will take a few years for this automation to come due
to large workforce availability. But, there are opportunities for home
cooking robots. India has a high diversity of taste preference. If you
provide food that is customised to one's taste without the trouble of
cooking, it's going to fly. Because even with cheap labour alternative,
you can't get the taste that you desire. The development in the ML
and AI technology is helping the food automation industry. It is
very easy to develop a chopping size classifier that can detect if the
potatoes are chopped in what size/shape, "Rava is roasted" etc. This
is a big push to food automation industry.”

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

Mechanical Chef (2017) ◆ Arpit Sharma, Co-Founder &
CTO, Mechanical Chef
 Founder “India has had a long history of
Arpit Sharma, Cohan Sujay Carlos innovation in consumer electronics
 Overview and electrical products, starting with
Building a robotic kitchen wet grinders that were invented in India to Rotimatic,
which was developed by an Indian couple living in
Mechanical Chef, a startup founded in 2017 in Singapore. Internet-enabled and connected devices
Bengaluru, has taken on the challenge of developing are expected to become ubiquitous in smart homes
cooking robots for the Indian market. The startup and smart kitchens. But of course, poor manufacturing
has designed a tabletop machine that can cook a options make it difficult for a hardware company to grow
variety of dishes once the basic ingredients are fed in India. Also, investors remain wary of investments in
into it, using a giant funnel. Anything from oil and hardware and manufacturing firms in India because they
vegetables, to spices and water, can be dropped are capital intensive and mistakes can be costly and the
in the machine in pre-calibrated quantities and a possibilities are not yet as well-understood as in the case
spatula shall mix them gently. The commands are of software. Despite these challenges, I am convinced
simply given from a laptop. It took about a year for that there is a market for invention in India and that it
the team to develop this model after going through would prove revolutionary. Technology such as AI cannot
hundreds of algorithms and machine drawings and replace humans of course since given the state of the art
spending few bucks. The design finally turned into a in AI today, it is still not a simple matter to build cutting
working prototype with a Nidhi Prayas grant of Rs 5 machines that are also easy to clean. So, a human touch
lakh from the Department of Science and Technology is definitely needed.”
through IIT Bombay’s incubator, the Society for
Innovation and Entrepreneurship (SINE). Both Cohan,
a former machine learning researcher at Microsoft
and Arpit, an aerospace engineer, are currently
refining the product into better versions which will
include voice commands and the ability to store
spices. They plan to raise a seed round of around
$120,000 and are in talks with angel investors and
firms in the consumer products space. They intend to
spend about 50 per cent of the money on hiring tech
employees for product development in Bengaluru.

Spoonshot (2015) Spoonshot in 2015 after quitting their respective jobs
with the online food ordering industry giants Just Eat
 Founders and Zomato. Both of them wanted to help consumers
Kishan Vasani, Sai Sreenivas Kodur make better food choices by bringing personalisation
 Overview technology to the food and beverages industry.
Leveraging food science through AI, ML Spoonshot has raised $560,000 in total from venture
funding. In 2017, it raised $120,000 from Zeroth.
Bengaluru-based startup Spoonshot, formerly known ai, followed by $400,000 in pre-seed funding from
as Dishq, is leveraging food science through artificial TechStars Farm to Fork accelerator and Arts Alliance, in
intelligence and machine learning to predict people’s 2018. As a step ahead, the startup has recently acquired
taste. Kishan Vasani and Sai Sreenivas Kodur launched Hyderabad-headquartered restaurant analytics startup
Brisky to leverage its taste prediction and food trends
technology.

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

WayCool ◆ Karthik Jayaraman
Foods (2015) Co-Founder & CEO,
Waycool Foods
 Founder “India is the second-largest
Karthik Jayaraman, Sanjay Dasari producer of fruits and vegetables
 Overview in the world, and presents a significant opportunity
Tech enabled supply chain platform for private players to profitably organize perishable
produce value chains. Our startup is committed to
Chennai based agritech startup WayCool Foods has solving India’s food supply chain problems while
become India’s fastest growing food distribution making a substantial positive difference to the
platform leveraging innovative technology to scale- farmers and consumers. We aim to build a large
up and operate a complex supply chain. The startup food distribution business by leveraging cutting
operates a full-stack, broadline product range across edge technology to create efficiencies and reduce
multiple channels and categories like fresh produce, information asymmetry in the supply chain, with
staples and dairy serving over 4,000 clients. It is working high quality phygital assets. As we continue scaling
with nearly 50,000 farmers, moving 150 tonnes of across product segments, geographies, and business
products per day across 13 cities and employs about 800 lines, we will continue to raise funds but at the same
people. WayCool has also licensed out a new technology time remain capital efficient and achieve a quality,
from the ICAR – Indian Institute of Horticulture Research mature business at scale by carefully calibrating the
(IIHR) that can help extend the shelf life of leafy stage of the business to the funding needs. We are
vegetables via a high humidity storage box. WayCool also working in collaboration with the National Agro
has recently raised Rs 120 crore in equity and debt Foundation as a step ahead and to sustain rapid
from impact investors such as UK-based LGT Impact growth in India’s fast growing agri-supply chain
Ventures, Caspian Impact Investment Advisor Pvt Ltd market.”
and Northern Arc Capital Ltd. These funds will be utilised
by WayCool to scale up operations across the southern
and western parts of India, strengthen its technology
platform and reinforce its supply chain. To add to the list,
the startup has also recently announced its acquisition
of the physical distribution business of Aalgro Foods, a
Bengaluru based B2B company in fruit retail packing and
distribution space. WayCool’s clients include handset
maker Nokia, computer maker Dell and startups like food
delivery app Swiggy.

◆ Kishan Vasani, Co-Founder & CEO, Spoonshot
“Why shouldn’t everything we eat or drink taste delicious? We all know how
great we feel when we’ve enjoyed a truly amazing meal, we’re happier, more
productive, and we waste less. After having spent more than 3 years at Just Eat,
the world’s largest online food ordering platform, I saw how we were collecting
useful data on customers, i.e. purchase and browsing histories, but weren’t doing
anything with it. When I looked at other verticals, e.g. fashion, music, ecommerce,
many of the market leaders in those sectors were considered innovators in
personalisation and recommendation. The irony is that food is the most personal and frequent
purchase we make, yet the food industry, even today, does almost nothing to help you make the
right choice for you. Our technology at Spoonshot leverages food science through ML, AI to understand
and predict people's tastes. We're helping Consumer Packaged Goods & foodservice companies with key
challenges including consumer insights & food trends, personalization, and product & menu development.”

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

Nymble (2016) ◆ Raghav Gupta
Co-Founder & CEO, Nymble
 Founders “From the initial days of technology’s
Raghav Gupta, Rohin Malhotra foray into the F&B ecosystem in
 Overview India through restaurant review
A domestic cooking robot with AI, ML capabilities apps like Zomato to the same apps
turning into online food delivery
Nymble, a robotic hardware startup headquartered in Bengaluru, plans platforms and aggregators to the
to make it possible for today’s generation to eat healthy and at home, more recent days of cloud kitchens
without spending the time and effort of actually cooking, by making and hardware robotic startups, the
domestic robots that cook food at the press of a button. The product disruption is palpable and massive in
Julia is a domestic cooking robot that uses artificial intelligence its scale and growing impact. What
and machine learning capabilities to learn about user tastes and it also means is that the pie is now
preferences and is capable of cooking single pot meals, including well fragmented and has enough
Asian curries, pastas, noodle or rice-based dishes, unsupervised and space for a lot of new players to
unattended. According to the startup, the robot is capable of handling still keep coming in. Technology
about eight varieties of vegetables and meat and six different kinds shall continue to be a key part of
of spice blends at a time. The product uses proprietary software this evolving ecosystem in the near
and sensors that measure important food parameters like weight, future as these investments ensure
temperature, consistency and change in colour to cook the meal. greater impetus on innovation and
Nymble was part of the first batch of the Bosch DNA Accelerator and novelty in terms of proprietary
has been supported by grants from the Government of Karnataka. In hardware and software that these
March 2019, the startup has raised an undisclosed amount of funding companies develop. We indeed
from early-stage venture capital firm WaterBridge Ventures, Flipkart to foresee an increasing trend
co-founder Binny Bansal and VC firm 021 Capital. The team intends to of companies in the food sector
use the capital for product development and innovation, to expand its coming together to enable a
technical team and set up operations in China and the USA. seamless experience for the end
consumer such that each aspect of
the chain is covered. With advancing
technology, a number of challenges
follow. When it comes to Consumer
Robotics, product development
perhaps is the biggest challenge
faced by the food-tech startups in
India. The second biggest challenge
is to attract the right kind of capital.
The prototyping process itself is time
consuming and to see a product
to light requires large amounts
of patient capital, and there are
few people in the ecosystem who
understand hardware enough to
make those large patient bets.”

NUFFOODSSPECTRUM | April 2019 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in SPECIAL 25

-KbAlDaAckKNchATicHken meat
redefining superfood sector
As the global population is tapping on the
India is considered as a heaven for vegetarians organic and healthy eating, so does the
with almost 40 per cent of the country’s Indians. In India, meat sector is considered
population thrives on vegetable diet, according as the most unorganised industry but on the other
to the report of National Health Portal of India. hand, it also offers bundle business opportunities to
Over the years, the eating habits of the Indians young dynamic players. There was a time when an
have gone through an immense transformation, Indian non-veg platter was consist of handful of meat
with youngsters sticking their palates with the items such as mutton, chicken, fish or seafood but
non-veg diet. In the other countries where most of now, much more options are being added with the
the inhabitants live on meat and meat products, inclusion of pork, duck, Kadaknath (chicken whose
for them, regular chicken, mutton, pork and meat is black), partridges, quails etc. Since most of
beef have become regular staples and this has these meat products are not produce on a massive
headed them to explore the whole new category scale, their availability is confined to few cities.
of non-vegetarian diet. Popularly known as the However, this also means that most these items are
‘Exotic Meat’ sector, this new class of meat which produced and fed on a natural diet, making their flesh
is organic, highly nutritious and healthy has 100 per cent organic.
attracted many meat lovers across the globe. This
‘Exotic Meat’ fever is also catching up in India. Kadaknath, the ‘Super-Chicken’
NuFFooDS Spectrum covers country’s exotic meat
market and the new opportunities and business Being labelled as a ‘Black Meat’ which provides
prospects it offers. high quality protein with lesser fat and cholesterol
compared to its counterparts, Kadaknath can be

26 SPECIAL NUFFOODSSPECTRUM | April 2019 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in

termed as the most preferred delicacy for the health “In the absence of awareness and information
conscious people. Kadaknath or Kali Masi is an Indian among tribals about the correct methods of poultry
breed of chicken local to Jhabua and Dhar districts of development, the original breed of 'Kadaknath' was
western Madhya Pradesh, where it is known as "Kali on the verge of extinction in Jhabua about 10 years
Masi" ("fowl having black flesh"). ago. In tribal areas, Kadaknath and other species are
being kept together, which resulted in cross breeding,”
One of the health benefits provided by the says Dr I. S Tomar, Senior Scientist and Head of Krishi
Kadaknath chicken is to have antioxidant properties. Vigyan Kendra (KVK) in Jhabua.
As the consequence, it has antioxidant carnitine,
which has been shown in recent studies. Moreover, Dr Tomar further says, “A central study in 2009-10
it is known that black chicken has more carnitine found that the mortality rate of Kadaknath chicken
compared to the white chicken. Then, as known, was very high. Simultaneously, the weight of the adult
antioxidant properties have a big role in promoting Kadaknath was less than that of other species. The
the body health. One of them is to protect the tribals were not getting good prices for this breed in
body against inflammation. Not only for that, it has the market, which caused their disillusionment with
prevented the risks of diseases such as cancers. its production.”
Therefore, as black chicken can be one’s food option. It
will also help the person to reduce the risks of certain Dr Bhagwan Manghnani, Additional Deputy
health problems. Director of Animal Husbandry Department,
government of Madhya Pradesh says “Due to
Earlier, the farming of this bird was done by local rising demand, Observation Centre for Kadaknath
farmers of Jhabua and Dhar with limited amount production has also been set up outside Jhabua.
of training and technology. The output was not Districts like Alirajpur, Barwani, Dhar, Dewas, Indore,
commendable with most of the birds perished at a Bhopal, Gwalior, Shahdol and Chhindwara are being
very young age. It was the government of Madhya developed as big centres of Kadaknath production.”
Pradesh that immediately intervened and established
Kadaknath Research Centre at Krishi Vigyan Kendra, "During the current financial year, the total
Jhabua. production of Kadaknath chicken is expected to go
up to four lakh chickens in the state. Schemes are
It was just a decade ago when the 'Kadaknath' being formulated to double the annual production of
breed of chicken from Jhabua in Madhya Pradesh was Kadaknath chickens to 8 lakh over the next two years,"
on the verge of extinction due to higher mortality adds Dr Manghnani.
rates and cross breeding. However, the situation is fast
changing now. Owing to concerted efforts undertaken Youngsters getting into
by authorities in the last few years to save the bird, Kadaknath farming
this breed of black chicken is now fostering well.
Kali Masi has opened new business opportunities
BENEFITS OF BLACK MEAT CHICKEN for young generations. Many young aspiring
entrepreneurs are switching to Kadaknath’s poultry
Black chicken is a good source of proteins. It farming as they visualise lot of healthy business scope
has 8 rich amino acids, male hormones, vitamin B1, and growing opportunities in this trade.
B2, B6, B12, Vit C, E, Niacin, nicotinic acids, Ca, P,
Hemoglobin to strengthening of immune system. Three educated youngsters from Haryana have
Consumption of Kadaknath chicken beneficial ditched plum corporate job offers to set up a poultry
in TB, Heart disease, neurasthenia, osteomalacia farm and training centre in Pitol village in Jhabua
(bone loss) and diseases of the nervous system. It (Madhya Pradesh) to breed Kadaknath, a protein-
is also helps in curing asthma, kidney ailments and rich breed also beneficial for patients of asthma and
high blood pressure owing to low cholesterol level cardiac ailments.
and more amino acids. As per nutrients contents
of Jhabua Kadaknath chicken is concerned, it has Jhabua, a tribal-dominated area depending
25-27 per cent proteins, 0.73-.03 per cent fat and on agriculture, is fraught with high malnutrition,
184mg/100g cholesterol whereas in other breeds low literacy and eventually high emigration rate.
of chicken meat or broilers chicken it has 18-20 per Kadaknath tasted popularity in 2015 as a state
cent protein, 13-24 per cent fat and 218 mg/100g government scheme wherein chicks of the breed
cholesterol respectively. were supplied to 150 poultry farms in Satna to fight
malnutrition.

Soon, unemployed tribal women in Dewas started
breeding the breed for livelihood. A Kochi-based
entrepreneur bought 1,000 eggs of Kadaknath chicken

NUFFOODSSPECTRUM | April 2019 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in SPECIAL 27

BOOSTING PHYSICAL STAMINA Incubator installed at the Kadaknath Research Centre
at Jhabua, Madhya Pradesh
The protein consumed by athletes or players
should be free from antibiotics/pesticide or any BENEFITS OF KADAKNATH CHICKEN
unwanted medicine whether it is milk, meat or any
veggie meals.  Protein: 18%-20%
 Cholesterol: 0.7%-1%
“In India, due to lack of  Iron content prevents anaemia, good for
welfare laws and rules, people
pregnant women
largely depend on milk,  18 essential amino acids
meat or eggs to increase  Promotes regular menstruation, fertility
their protein intake. But  Vitamins B1, B2, 86, 812
due to heavy adulteration  Healthy eyesight
and contamination, these  Calcium and phosphorous content help
intakes don’t satisfy the protein
requirement of the body. Hence, maintain bone strength
we have to select proteins or fats or carbohydrate
which is of good quality,” opines Dr Chandan Kumar, we start their supply then our bird breeding line will
Scientist, KVK Jhabua. collapse drastically,” says Dr Bhagwan Manghnani.
In a recently drafted letter to Board of Control
for Cricket in India (BCCI), Dr I. S. Tomar, Senior Future ahead
scientist and Head of Krishi
Vigyan Kendra in Jhabua, With youngsters of the country becoming more health
has recommended that conscious, these organic meat products’ market is
Virat Kohli’s boys should expected to grow in multiple folds. Since the demand
include special chicken of these fleshes is rising constantly, it becomes a
from this farm in their diets. bigger challenge for the breeders to keep the supply
Speaking further, Dr Tomar chain running smoothly. Breeders also need to stay
stated, “Indian cricket team focused on maintain the organic contain of the meat
has been performing extremely because this is the main USP of their product and
well on Indian as well as on international turf and moment they tweak it to increase the production line,
for a better performance in the coming years, I have consumers will start looking for some other options.
suggested to the Indian team and the Indian cricket So a proper balance is required to retain a healthy
board to visit our farm house. We can demonstrate supply and demand chain which will eventually prove
how Kadaknath chickens can fulfil the needs of the beneficial for both breeder and consumer as well.
players.”
“Two years ago, when he was on a normal diet, Nitin Konde
he had said that he would go vegan if given a choice. [email protected]
He is now feeling stronger than before. Kohli started
this diet four months ago and is feeling stronger as
his digestive power has increased. He isn't missing
meat, eggs or dairy,” an official from BCCI stated.

and built poultry centres at Andhra Pradesh, Kerala
and Tamil Nadu. “Over the years, we have witnessed
lot of youngsters enrolling themselves for this
business which a very positive development. Since
the demand of the meat is increasing, we need more
breeding stations to ramp up the production and
these young entrepreneurs perfectly fit in to lift the
production rate. Currently, we have pre booked orders
which can be fulfilled after two to three months.
There is a massive demand from Kadanath’s egg but if

28 Q&A NUFFOODSSPECTRUM | April 2019 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in

Dr I. S Tomar, “We have young
budding entrepreneurs
Senior Scientist and Head, opting for
Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Jhabua Kadaknath’s farming”
(Madhya Pradesh)

Black chicken which is gaining new peaks of How this idea was conceived by the government to
popularity in national and international market is promote this Kadaknath as super chicken?
a breed which is a native of India and Indonesia. Earlier, this breed which is locally called ‘Kali Masi’ used
In India, it is popularly known as ‘Kadaknath’ or Kali to rear by the native farmers who were not honed with
Masi whereas in Indonesia, it is called ‘Ayam Cemani’. technical skill and knowledge. This lack of ability, lead
Despite of being a superfood, with high nutrition, low to the decline of the breed and before Kadaknath get
cholesterol and rich with other scientifically proven devoured by extinction. Government and researchers
healthy substances, Kadaknath is still needs extra intervened and that proved the life savour step for the
promotion to gain popularity among the denizens bird. Initially, the researchers’ first focus was to get the
of the country. Through collaborated efforts of the bird out from the clutches of getting extinct. Once,
government and research scientists, this breed, over we achieved that with the help of government, many
the years, has evolved from the verge extinction programmes and policies were floated out to ramp
and now harbouring and flouring well in their up the production and to spread awareness about the
breeding pockets in the state of Madhya Pradesh bird.
and Chhattisgarh. On the contrary, Indonesian
‘Ayam Cemani’ has become a very rare breed and has Last year, the government of Madhya Pradesh has
almost reached to its extinction bed. To analyse the launched a ‘Kadaknath App’ could you shed some
growth and government programmes to ramp up the light on this development?
production and distribution of Kadaknath across the We are looking to spread the breed across the
nation, NuFFooDS Spectrum visits the Krishi Vigyan nation. Each and every citizen can get access to this
Kendra (KVK) in Jhabua and discusses the current healthy meal. Launching an ‘App’ is a very positive
scenario with Dr I. S Tomar, Senior Scientist and Head move. Through this app, people can place orders for
(KVK) in an exclusive interview. Kadaknath chicken from anywhere. Availability of
Edited excerpts; Kadaknath chickens with the cooperative societies
can also be seen on this app. Apart from that, the App
What are the major differences between the desi, would provide marketing platform to 430 members of
boiler and Kadaknath? 21 societies in Jhabua and Alirajpur districts of Madhya
If we compare Kadanath with boilers and desi then Pradesh. More societies are being added to this
black chicken holds a dominant position. Further, platform. This App which is developed by cooperative
if we augment the comparison, boilers are mostly department of Madhya Pradesh is now available on
scientifically reared breed which is raised through Google Playstore.
non organic feeding. On the other hand, local or desi
chickens though raised with organic feeding but still What were the main causes that led to the massive
lack the nutrient value as compared to Kadaknath, decline in the bird’s population and how did you
which is not only high in nutrient but is also nurtured cope with them during the rebuilding phase?
with organic feeding. In the absence of awareness and information
among tribals about the correct methods of poultry

NUFFOODSSPECTRUM | April 2019 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in Q&A 29

development, the original breed of 'Kadaknath' was Ayam Cemani from Indonesia
on the verge of extinction in Jhabua about 10 years
ago. In tribal areas, Kadaknath and other species are coupled with 24 hours electricity supply. The chicken
being kept together, which resulted in cross breeding. shelter should be away from industrial and urban area
Central study in 2009-10 found that the mortality rate and should be in a peaceful surrounding since noise
of Kadaknath chicken was very high. Simultaneously, pollution will hamper the productivity of the bird.
the weight of the adult Kadaknath was less than that
of other species. The tribals were not getting good Currently, how many states you have been
prices for this breed in the market, which caused their supplying the bird and what are your plans to
disillusionment with its production. further increase your reach across India?
Presently, we are supplying the birds to various states
As part of an experiment, we installed separate such as Haryana, Punjab, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh,
sheds for Kadaknath chickens and to begin with, we Tamil Nadu, Telangana etc. Since our production line
kept 100 chickens in each compartment and were is not been able to meet the increasing demand, we
vaccinated them on the regularly. On the basis of a are planning to install various centres across nation to
special feeding chart, we fed them nutrition which ramp up the supply, but it will take some time.
helped them to gain weight. These initial steps helped
us to raise the population of the breed substantially. How this bird has managed to solve prolonged
unemployment problem of the region?
Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Jhabua has been Kadaknath has proved a money minting bird to the
promoting this breed as a superfood item which locals. Earlier, due to high mortality rate, lack of
is comparatively high in nutrient and less in breeding skills and absence of healthy paraphernalia,
cholesterol and fat than other meat products. these birds were not considered as healthy investment.
But eventually, if your see the price of per kg But now, the game has changed and we have young
meat of Kadaknath is very high compared to its budding entrepreneurs opting for Kadaknath’s
counterpart? farming, In fact, many of them have left their elite
Currently, we are not focusing on the price cap as our jobs and invested in Kadaknath’s farming. Apart from
first motive is to augment our nexus. Yes, the price of providing birds, we also train farmers to breed chicken
the meat is high but if you look at the nutrient content so that they can start mini-poultry farms at their
and other benefits, it fits in that price frame. Presently, houses. Till now, we have trained almost 90 farmers
we are at the nascent stage so price is bound to be and around 15 of them have set up their own poultry
high but once the production ramps up then we will ventures.
be in a better position to control the pricing factor.
Nitin Konde
Usually, the poultry farmers and breeders use [email protected]
scientifically and chemically processed feeds to
ramp up the growth of the bird. Do you feel that
this could be a feasible option for Kadaknath as
well?
Chemically processed feeds are best meant for
scientifically grown breed such as boilers. For desi
breeds and Kadaknath, organic feeding is the best
option to maintain its high nutrient value.

If someone wants to enrol in for the breeding
business of this magnificent bird, what are the
paraphernalia one needs to install and what could
be the average investment that he or she has to
make?
To enrol, one needs to have a suitable piece of land
in which maximum chick development and egg
development take place. The house should be at some
height from the ground so that rain water can easily
flow out. There should a constant fresh water supply

30 SPECIAL NUFFOODSSPECTRUM | April 2019 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in

CELEBRATING
WORLD PULSES DAY

February 10, 2019, was the first-ever World Pulses Day, a United Nations global event to celebrate pulses
worldwide and continue the important gains made with the 2016 International Year of Pulses. The aim
is to celebrate, raise awareness and promote the consumption of pulses at events around the globe.
The annual celebration of pulses presents a tremendous opportunity to raise awareness of the critical
role they play in contributing to the achievement of the 2030 Agenda by addressing the challenges of

poverty, food security and nutrition.

Pulses have been part of the human diet when and media also contributed to these activities. The IYP
gatherers and hunters turned into farmers some
10,000 years ago. Pulses are nutrient-rich crops. prompted a significant momentum that has changed
They are an excellent source of plant-based protein and
micronutrients and low in fat and high in dietary fibre. the public’s perception of pulses. It is hoped that this
Eating pulses as part of a healthy diet can contribute to
addressing the multiple facets of malnutrition, ranging change will enable the remodeling of production and
from undernutrition and micronutrient deficiency to
overweight and obesity. consumption patterns of pulses to further enhance

Furthermore, pulses, and legumes in general, play the fight against poverty, hunger and malnutrition and
an equally important role in soil health maintenance
and improvement. The ancient Roman scholar Marcus to increase the sustainability of agricultural and food
Terentius Varro, in his Rerum Rusticarum (37 BCE),
recommended that legumes be planted in poor soils systems.
because they do not require many nutrients. These crops
should not only be planted for an immediate return, In 2018, the UNGA decided that February 10 will mark
namely high yields, but because they will also enrich the
soil for subsequent crops. World Pulses Day, keeping alive the positive momentum

The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) surrounding these healthy, nutritious, protein-
declared 2016 as the International Year of Pulses (IYP) to
raise awareness about the importance of these plants rich, nitrogen-fixing legumes after FAO's successful
and highlight their role in healthy diets and family
farmers’ livelihoods as well as their contribution to soil 2016 International Year of Pulses Campaign.
health and the environment. Additional benefits of
pulses include helping to eradicate hunger, increase FAO Liaison Office in New York celebrated this
agricultural productivity, improve human health and
reduce soil degradation, thus contributing to towards world event on February 7. Co-sponsored by FAO, the
the achievement of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable
Development and the Sustainable Development Goals Permanent Missions of Burkina Faso, Canada and Turkey,
(SDGs).
and the Global Pulse Confederation, the luncheon event
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the
United Nations (FAO) was mandated to facilitate the marked the inaugural celebration of World Pulses Day,
implementation of the IYP, together with all relevant
stakeholders. FAO and its partners carried out many which was declared by consensus at the UNGA in
worldwide awareness-raising events and activities on
the benefits of pulses for food security, nutrition and December 2018. Addressing the audience
sustainability of agricultural systems. Public and private
sector entities, research centres, educational institutions Carla Mucavi, Director of the FAO Liaison

Office in New York, said “Today we can all

affirm that pulses are better recognized

as a valuable source of protein and as an

ally for food security and nutrition in the

fight against hunger.”

World Pulses Day builds

on the successful

implementation of

the International Year

of Pulses in 2016 to

raise awareness of the

critical role pulses

play in addressing

the challenges of

poverty, food security

and nutrition, while also

stimulating investment in

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

research on pulses and in their production and marketing. WHY ARE PULSES IMPORTANT CROPS?
Delivering the closing remarks, Carla Mucavi
Nutritional value: Pulses are essential crops for
emphasized that, in the context of rising numbers in a number of reasons. They are packed with nutrients
malnutrition, the importance of pulses becomes even and have a high protein content, making them an
more critical in improving our diets and contributing ideal source of protein particularly in regions where
to sustainable food systems. Moreover, she took stock meat and dairy are not physically or economically
of the legacy of the International Year of Pulses, noting accessible. Pulses are low in fat and rich in soluble
that the year contributed to increased awareness and fibre, which can lower cholesterol and help in the
profile of pulses among all sectors of population as well control of blood sugar. Because of these qualities
as strengthened the collaboration among key players. they are recommended by health organizations for
the management of non-communicable diseases like
Pulses play a key role in play in improving nutrition diabetes and heart conditions. Pulses have also been
and simultaneously addressing food security and climate shown to help combat obesity.
change challenges by providing proteins and lysine to
complement cereals in human alimentation, contributing Food security: For farmers, pulses are an
to diversified crop rotations, and fixing nitrogen in the soil important crop because they can be both sold and
thus reducing the use of fertilizers and greenhouse gas consumed by the farmers and their families. Having
(GHG) emissions. Therefore, pulses improve food security the option to eat and sell the pulses they grow
while helping to adapt to and mitigate the effects of helps farmers maintain household food security
climate change. and creates economic stability. Furthermore,
the nitrogen-fixing properties of pulses improve
In order to draw attention to the above benefits and soil fertility, which increases and extends the
in line with the recommendations of the Committee on productivity of the farmland. By using pulses for
Agriculture (COAG) and Council related to the IYP 2016, intercropping and cover crops, farmers can also
FAO will be strengthening the programme on pulses promote farm biodiversity and soil biodiversity, while
as part of its regular work in the Plant Production and keeping harmful pests and diseases at bay.
Protection Division (AGP), and exploring joint initiatives
with the other Rome-based agencies to provide policy Climate change mitigation: Pulses can
advice and support to Member Countries, on the contribute to climate change mitigation by
production, consumption and trade of pulses. FAO will reducing dependence on the synthetic fertilizers
also facilitate linkages and partnerships with ongoing used to introduce nitrogen artificially into the
programmes that promote sustainable pulse value chains, soil. Greenhouse gases are released during the
such as the Mountain Partnership Product Initiative manufacturing and application of these fertilizers,
supported by the Italian Development Cooperation and and their overuse can be detrimental to the
the Slow Food movement. environment. However, pulses fix atmospheric
nitrogen in the soil naturally, and in some cases
Pulses promotional proposals free soil-bound phosphorous, thus significantly
decreasing the need for synthetic fertilizers.
In response to the 155th Council
Source: FAO
recommendations and based on
the Global Action Network on Sustainable Food from the
the results of the consultations Oceans and Inland Waters for Food Security and Nutrition,
which is led by Norway (NMTIF, 2018). These networks are
held during the IYP 2016, informal coalitions of countries aimed at advocating for
the establishment of policies and legislation around a
FAO has put forward the specific nutrition-related theme, allowing the exchange
of knowledge and good practices, highlighting successes,
following proposals illustrating challenges and providing mutual support
to accelerate implementation. A similar network on
endorsed by the 40th pulses can be established, under the leadership of FAO
Member Countries who have been instrumental in the
FAO Conference. implementation of the IYP and have a common interest
in taking action on this topic. To start the process of
Pulses Action

Network: Among the

activities included in

the work programme

of the UN Decade of

Action on Nutrition

(UN, 2016) is

the creation of

thematic action

networks, such as

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

10 REASONS OF OPTING FOR PULSES work to the Decade’s joint FAO/World Health Organisation
Secretariat as well as identify and invite other partner
1. Pulses are naturally low in fat and contain no countries to join. An action network may be regional or
cholesterol, which can contribute to reducing global. The Pulses Action Network’s leading country will
the risk of cardiovascular diseases. be responsible for deciding how a network will engage
with civil society organizations, academic institutions
2. Pulses are also low in sodium. Sodium chloride and the private sector, particularly the Global Pulse
- or salt - is a contributor to hypertension and Confederation, with due consideration to conflicts of
can be avoided by consuming foods with lower interests.
sodium levels such as pulses.
Publication on underutilized pulse species: There
3. They are a great source of plant-based protein. are a number of pulse species of minor relevance at the
Surprisingly, 100 grams of dry lentils contain a international level, which can be used for specific niches
remarkable 25 grams of protein! During cooking, because of their adaptation to marginal environmental
pulses absorb considerable amounts of water conditions. Pulses such as Bambara beans (Vigna
thus reducing their protein content to around subterranea [L.] Verdc.), have an important social value
8 percent. Yet, you can still increase the protein in promoting indigenous, underutilized pulses. In
quality of cooked pulses by simply combining addition to contributing to local economies, they can
them with cereals in your meal, for example, also help in preserving culturally appropriate foods
lentils with rice. while contributing to balanced diets. The publication,
under the responsibility of FAO’s AGP Division, will
4. Pulses are a good source of iron. Iron deficiency compile information on agronomy, nutrition and trade of
is considered one of the most prevalent underutilized pulse species such as African yam bean and
forms of malnutrition and is one of the most winged bean.
common types of anaemia. To help optimize the
absorption of iron in our bodies from pulses, Revision of international statistical classifications
combine them with foods containing vitamin C on pulses: Contribute to the improvement of international
(lemon juice on lentil curry for example). statistical product classifications by reviewing taxonomic
information and adding detail on beans to differentiate
5. Pulses are high in potassium, which supports between two distinct genera that have different
heart health and plays an important role for environmental and market niches. The IYP Steering
digestive and muscular functions. Committee has also supported FAO’s proposal to improve
the international Classification of Individual Consumption
6. Pulses are often quoted among the top high According to Purpose (COICOP) by disaggregating
fibre foods, necessary for supporting digestive classes and differentiating between up to nine products
health and helping to reduce the risks of with different environmental and market niches. The
cardiovascular diseases. improvement of international statistical classifications
will improve the statistics of pulse production and food
7. Pulses are an excellent source of folate – a consumption at country and international level.
B-vitamin naturally present in many foods –
that is essential to the nervous system function New opportunity
and especially important during pregnancy to
prevent foetal defects. Pulses are the biggest source of protein for humans
and have a vital role to play in improving nutrition
8. Pulses can be stored for a long time and – both underweight and overweight – and tackling
therefore can help to increase the diversity of non-communicable diseases, as well as possessing
diets, especially in developing countries. numerous environmental values. Despite these benefits,
pulses remain underrepresented in global food systems,
9. Pulses are low glycaemic index foods. They research, and national food policy. World Pulses Day is
help to stabilize blood sugar and insulin levels, a new opportunity to heighten public awareness of the
making them suitable for people with diabetes nutritional benefits of eating pulses. Pulses are more than
and ideal for weight management. just nutritious seeds, they contribute to sustainable food
systems and a #ZeroHunger world. All countries across
10. Finally, pulses are naturally gluten-free. This the globe need to make World Pulses Day a success by
makes them an ideal option for coeliacs. observing the day by bringing awareness about the
benefits of pulses among the public.
Source: FAO

establishing an action network under the umbrella of the
UN Decade of Action on Nutrition, the country committed
to taking the lead would need to communicate the action
network’s title, objectives, scope and initial programme of

NUFFOODSSPECTRUM | April 2019 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in SPECIAL 33

TECH production of kharif pulses is estimated at 9.22 million
INTERVENTIONS tonnes which is lower by 0.12 million tonnes than the last
year’s production of 9.34 million tonnes. However, kharif
IMPROVING pulses estimated production is 2.67 million tonnes more
SUSTAINABLE than the last five years average production.

PULSES There had been a bumper crop of pulses in the past
OUTPUT two seasons which prompted India to cut down on
imports and export the excess quantity. In 2016-17, India
Pulses are grown in virtually every corner of the produced 23.13 million tonnes of pulses, followed by an
globe. They have a strong history of nourishing even better crop size of 25.23 million tonnes in 2017-18
people around the world for centuries. Along with against production of 14.66 million tonnes in the year
the early cereal grains, pulses were among the first 2009-10, an increase of 72.10 per cent. There was a steep
crops cultivated as far back as 11,000 years ago. In jump of around 150 per cent in pulses exports, with India
the past three decades, global pulse production shipping out 2.15 lakh tonnes during April-November
has grown rapidly. In the past ten years alone, the 2018 from 87,896 tonnes during the same period the
world has produced between 50 and 60 million previous year. In 2018-19, the production is likely to be 22
million tonnes, just enough to meet India’s requirement
tonnes of pulses each year. According to Food of 25 million tonnes, with a buffer stock of 36 lakh tonnes.
and Agriculture Organization (FAO) as of 2015, the According to reports, India will see a fall in the production
of rabi pulses. In kharif pulses also the area under
worlds biggest producers of pulses were India, cultivation had dropped from 157 lakh hectares to 149
Canada, Myanmar, China, Nigeria, Brazil, Australia, lakh hectares. Cold waves and untimely rains may further
USA, Russia, and Tanzania, while the worlds most damage the standing crop.
important pulse exporters also include Argentina,
Government has undertaken various interventions to
France, Ethiopia, and Turkey. Overall there were boost the pulses production during last four and a half
nearly 173 countries in the world that grew and years to achieve self-sufficiency in the country. On August
exported pulses between 2010 and 2013. Being 9, 2018, government has approved the release of pulses
an importer and exporter of pulses, India has to to states/UTs at discounted rate to be utilized for various
implement specialized policies required to boost welfare schemes from the stock of pulses procured under

pulses production in the coming years.

India, one of the leading pulses producing nations in the
world has witnessed all time high production of pulses
during the last two years. Total rabi (October-March)
pulses production during 2017-18 (as per 4th Advance
Estimates) is estimated at record 15.89 million tonnes
which is higher by 2.34 million tonnes than the previous
year’s production of 13.55 million tonnes. Moreover, the
production of rabi pulses during 2017-18 is higher by 3.60
million tonnes than the five years’ average production of
12.29 million tonnes. Similarly the country witnessed an
increase in the production of kharif (July –October) pulses
in 2018-19 (as per 1st Advance Estimates) as compared
with last five years average production. The total

34 SPECIAL NUFFOODSSPECTRUM | April 2019 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in

WHAT ARE PULSES? Price Support Schemes (PSS). The decision will enable
the states/UTs to use pulses in various welfare schemes
Pulses are a type of leguminous crop that are like Public Distribution Scheme, Mid-Day Meal Scheme
harvested solely for the dry seed. Dried beans, lentils etc. besides making available to warehouses, which
and peas are the most commonly known and consumed may be required in coming kharif season for storage of
types of pulses. Pulses do not include crops that are commodities procured under Price Support Scheme.
harvested green (e.g. green peas, green beans)—these
are classified as vegetable crops. Also excluded are Under this approved scheme, the states/UT
those crops used mainly for oil extraction (e.g. soybean governments are allowed to lift 3.488 million tonnes of
and groundnuts) and leguminous crops that are used tur, chana, masoor, moong and urad at discount of Rs 15
exclusively for sowing purposes (e.g. seeds of clover and per kg over the prevailing wholesale market price of the
alfalfa). Pulses include all varieties of dried beans, such sourcing state on first come first serve basis. The state/
as kidney beans, lima beans, butter beans and broad UTs Governments utilize these pulses in their various
beans. Chick peas, cowpeas, black-eyed peas and pigeon welfare schemes/programmes like Mid-Day Meal, Public
peas are also pulses, as are all varieties of lentils. Staples Distribution System, Integrated Child Development
dishes and cuisines from across the world feature pulses, Programmes (ICDP) etc. This will be one-time dispensation
from hummus in the Mediterranean (chick peas), to a for a period of 12 months or complete disposal of 3.488
traditional full English breakfast (baked navy beans) to million tonnes of pulses stock whichever is earlier.
Indian dal (peas or lentils). Government will spend Rs 5,237 crore for implementation
of this Scheme.
CENTRE’S NEW INITIATIVES FOR INCREASING
PRODUCTION AND PRODUCTIVITY OF PULSES Government of India under Price Support Scheme has
FROM 2016- 17 ONWARDS made record procurement of pulses during kharif 2017
and rabi 2018 marketing season. A record procurement
 Breeder Seed production of pulses was introduced of 4.543 million tonnes of pulses has been done under
under NFSM-Pulses programme. Price Support Scheme. In the coming Kharif season the
production of pulses is expected to be good. This coupled
 150 Seed Hubs are being implemented for with increase in Minimum Support Price (MSP) will require
increasing certified seeds of indigenous production additional procurement under Price Support Scheme.
of pulses in India through the Indian Institute of
Pulses Research (IIPR), Kanpur and their centres. A programme on additional area coverage of pulses
during rabi/kharif 2018-19 has been launched with an
 Supplying of Minikits of pulses seed varieties not allocation of Rs 288.83 crore (Centre’s Share) to increase
older than 10 years free of the cost (100% share) to production of rabi/ summer pulses through area
the farmers. expansion. The additional allocation for implementation
of the aforesaid programme has been made to 15 states.
 In addition to State Governments, the ICAR/
KVKs/SAUs also involved in conducting the The Government of India has supported the growers
demonstrations on improved latest package of with record procurement of pulses at Minimum Support
practices of pulses. Price (MSP). Further, the Centre’s decision to create buffer
stock of pulses has also led to the increase of pulses
 15% allocation is earmarked for pulses under NFSM production in the country. The bold step to raise MSP
for production of quality seeds through State to 1.5 times of cost of production undertaken this year
Governments. will further encourage the farmers to grow more pulses.
Notably, the MSP of moong has increased from Rs 4500
 The government has decided to create a buffer per quintal in 2013-14 to Rs 6979 in 2018-19. Similarly for
stock of pulses to control fluctuation of prices of urad from Rs 4300 to Rs 5600 per quintal and for sunflower
pulses. from Rs 3700 to Rs 5388 per quintal.

The recently launched Umbrella Scheme “Pradhan
Mantri Annadata Aay Sanrakshan Abhiyan (PM-AASHA)
provides for a holistic arrangement for assurance
of a remunerative and stable price environment for
growers /farmers to increase agriculture production
and productivity. This Umbrella Scheme comprises Price
Support Scheme (PSS) for pulses along with other crops.
The PM-AASHA scheme provides for a budgetary support
of Rs 15,053 crore. As against a Government Guarantee

NUFFOODSSPECTRUM | April 2019 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in SPECIAL 35

of Rs 2,500 crore upto the year 2013-14, a Government TECHNOLOGY MISSION ON PULSES
Guarantee of Rs 18,250 crore for the years 2018-20
has been made available for smooth conduct of PSS Transfer of improved pulse production
operations. Food Corporation of India for the first time technologies remains the most neglected component
is participating in these operations for ensuring MSP for in the past, and consequently the benefit of improved
pulses growing farmers. varieties and production technology could not be
harnessed. 1. Aggressive transfer of production
In order to ensure self-sufficiency, the pulse technologies through Frontline demonstrations
requirement in the country is projected at 39 million and Block demonstrations involving SDA, KVKs,
tonnes by the year 2050 which necessitates an annual NGOs, SAUs and private sectors. 2. Dissemination of
growth rate of 2.14 per cent. This requires a paradigm knowledge on improved technologies.
shift in research, technology generation, dissemination,  Productivity Enhancement
and commercialization along with capacity building  Availability of quality seeds
in frontier areas of research. Keeping this in mind, the  Integrated pest/disease management
Indian Institute of Pulses Research (IIPR), Kanpur in  Integrated nutrient management
2015 has developed Vision 2050, a perspective plan for  Technology transfer
augmenting pulses production in the country through  Farm Implements
technological interventions. The major R & D issues  Protective irrigation
identified for pulses are low genetic yield potential,  Area Expansion
poor and unstable yield, huge post-harvest losses to the  Post-Harvest Management
extent of about 20 per cent including milling and storage
pests, inadequate adoption of improved technologies Source: Directorate of Pulses Development
and low profitability which need to be tackled through
integration of conventional approaches with cutting According to Vision 2050 of the IIPR, India has about
edge technologies such as genomics, molecular marker 50 million acres of irrigated land and is second only to the
assisted breeding, transgenics, molecular approaches United States with 60 million acres. In the US it is possible
for stress management, high input use efficiency, quality to raise only one crop a year due to weather constraints.
improvement, biofortification, resource conservation However, many areas in India have the potential to raise
technologies, value addition and food safety. Exploitation three crops a year, provided we learn how to sustain
of heterosis and yield genes from wild relatives has also the fertility of the soil. This will be equal to >100 million
been identified as a promising avenue for breaking yield acres of irrigated land. Keeping this in view, expert land
plateau. management and maintaining soil fertility needs urgent
attention. Being the largest producer, consumer and
Uplifting production importer of pulses in the world, India’s role is important
for the world as it not only produces around 25 million
To meet the projected requirement, the productivity tonne of pulses, but also imports to meet its demand.
needs to uplift at about 1200 kg per ha and about 3 to 5 The global pulses production is estimated to be around
million ha additional area has to be brought under pulses 60 million tonnes from 90 countries and valued at $100
besides drastically reducing the postharvest losses. With billion. Though India can produce more but it lacks policy
dramatic changes in global agricultural scenario on initiatives to make pulses as quality protein ingredient for
account of implementation of World Trade Organisation food. Therefore, specialized policies are required to boost
and Intellectual Property Right (IPR), pulses have to play pulses production in India.
a far greater role in providing overall prosperity to the
marginal farmers, which would mean better nutritional
security by way of meeting dietary protein requirement,
improvement in the production base through conservation
of natural resources, and high net returns to farmers
though value addition and lowering the cost of production
with an eye on export. By 2050, the Institute envisions,
“Ensure self-sufficiency in pulse production and improve
competitiveness through knowledge based technological
interventions for improving nutritional security and
sustainability of the production base”. To meet projected
requirement of 39 million tonnes for 1.69 billion people, an
increase of 0.6 million tonnes per annum will be required.

36 Q&A NUFFOODSSPECTRUM | April 2019 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in

Gaurav Aggarwal, “Innovation and
staying relevant are
CEO One Life Nutraceuticals most important”
& Director, Lasons India

Gaurav, a believer in living the one life that we have increase consumer awareness and education. With two
right made it his goal to build and create a brand stores in Delhi, we will soon have their flagship outlets in
with products which cater to enhancing the Mumbai and Pune as well.
health and wellness in the simplest yet most effective
way. This thought and vision resulted in the inception Elaborate on your journey in the field of nutrition and
of OneLife India, a nutrition, wellness and beauty wellness business.
supplements and vitamins brand. Keeping in mind the I started my journey in the nutrition, wellness and
Indian dietary habits and standards and guidelines pharmaceutical field at the young age of 20. We have
recommended by Food Safety and Standards Authority been in the nutrition business for almost 40 years now.
of India (FSSAI) and Indian Council of Medical Research Our customer base ranges from beverage companies to
(ICMR), the products of OneLife are developed to help food companies to pharma giants who are in space of
deliver the maximum and most effective results in nutrition, multivitamin, fortified foods etc. U.S. enriches
preventive healthcare. NuFFooDS Spectrum talked to its flour with certain vitamins because that is considered
Gaurav Aggarwal, the man at the helm of OneLife. a staple diet. India does not do that. It is now doing it
Edited excerpts, and rules are now changing where Food Safety and
Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is now asking rice,
Tell us about OneLife, the idea behind it, and its flour to be enriched. We are 20 years behind but we had
products. to evolve as an economy so that people can afford these
Stemming from experience and immense industry things. Unfortunately, in our country, people are unable
knowledge of almost four decades, OneLife India, a to afford cheapest form of rice and if you infuse that
flagship brand of Lasons India Pvt Ltd brings its nutrition, with vitamins and minerals, it is going to be as expensive
wellness and beauty products to enrich your one life and as gold for a common man. But things are changing.
live it right. With an ever-increasing range of vitamins People are becoming more health conscious now and
and supplements, OneLife takes care of all the nutrition, are spending extra effort in researching, finding a right
wellness and beauty concerns. From tackling various product and are willing to spend extra money from their
health concerns like bone health, cartilage care, joint household income for themselves and family. So things
health, heart health, hair nutrition, nail and skin health, are evolving today. What we need to do as a responsible
daily energy, overall strength and wellness. company is educate consumers. We are trying to educate
consumers and spread awareness that we have products
Ranging from a multitude of ingredients researched that may help delay the process of many diseases. The
and created, the company also offers various natural idea is to provide customers with supplements that can
supplements which enhance the goodness of nature give a longer and healthier life.
to give you the best natural health alternatives. Onelife
is available pan India through its website and various OneLife has done partnerships/collaborations with
e-commerce sites as well as offline through various various sports teams. Can you please throw some
partner pharmacies, nutritional and wellness stores and light on that?
more making it accessible in over thirty five cities and Passionate about all things health, wellness and fitness
counting. OneLife has also ventured into retail outlets to related, OneLife delves silently into various leagues

NUFFOODSSPECTRUM | April 2019 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in Q&A 37

and sport events powering them to promote fitness per cent of sports nutrition product sold in India are
as a lifestyle. A partner of multiple sport teams like fake, which is sad as maximum people have counterfeit
OneLife Ahmedabad Express – Box Cricket League, AM product. So it is a part of our endeavor to educate
Undefeatables – Roots Football League and more. As consumers.
part of OneLife, we have also aligned it as the ‘Wellness
Partner’ of Super Fight League, an MMA competitive What is the total turnover of your company? How
league with national presence. It is a part of educating; much expenditure is spent on R&D?
it is a part of branding as well. We provide nutrition to R&D is a continuous process. It is going on since 35
athletes and actors as it is their part of livelihood. They years in our plant and we need to evolve with time.
understand the need of supplements and healthy food A product will run for 5 years and then we need to
options and as they come with lots of fan following, it change or compete with new products. So, R&D is
helps us in educating a consumer. a never-ending process. We have R&D strength of
28 people which comprises doctors, scientists, food
What current market trends do you see in the field of technologists, PhDs etc. We outsource some part of R&D
nutraceuticals? as well. On manufacturing side, we have developed
There is a rapid growth in this industry. Experts expect certain technologies which do not exist anywhere else
the industry to be close to $4 billion and predict to rise at in the world. We were able to come with very good
$8-10 billion in the next four-five years. There is a trend of formulations which were innovative as well. We have
innovation where people are now coming up with more a large recall of customers who are very loyal. We are
indicative specific nutraceuticals such as for diabetes, growing as a company 20 per cent Year-on-Year basis.
liver, kidney, joints. Nutraceuticals formulated 10 years
ago are not relevant today as our lifestyle has changed. What future plans do you have for the company in
So, if multivitamin sold 10 years ago had 7 ingredients, the sector of health and wellness?
now it has 35 ingredients. If you look at any of the giant As a company, we export to more than 100 countries.
pharma companies, they are revamping their ingredients Our exports are more than Rs 150 crore. We are going to
because old ones are obsolete. We see lot of companies start exporting in the U.S. and Middle East next month.
focusing on innovation and revamping with the addition We want to focus on South East Asia mainly because
of new products. Food companies are focusing on there is a demand and nutritional needs are similar to
developing well-formulated food supplements, energy that of India. The idea is to grow first in India. We strongly
bars, protein bars, meal replacers, healthy snacking etc. support ‘Make in India’ and almost all our products are
Beverage and food companies are moving towards made in India. India is a land of Ayurveda and as many
fortifying daily items. So I think there is growth and ingredients are exported out of India, our next step is to
innovation is the key and staying relevant to the market take this product abroad. The idea is of creating a global
as well is most important. brand that is made in India and taken to the rest of the
world.
Are you facing competition with any of the
international brands that have presence in India? Prapti Shah
Yes, competition is there. International brands are [email protected]
more evolved but if you look at the market today, all
international brands are facing compliance issues. India’s
market is one of the largest in the world and with 1.2
billion population, almost majority comprises of young
population. Indian brands also come at a fraction of a
price. I think international brands are doing very well in
India but with time they are going to face challenges
from home grown and startup brands or from authorities
or regulators.

What resistance have you faced until now as an
Entrepreneur in the nutraceutical sector?
Biggest challenge that we face is convincing a consumer
that Indian products are not bad and imported products
are not the only option. I read an article which said 60

38 Q&A NUFFOODSSPECTRUM | April 2019 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in

Gary Hunter, “India is way ahead
in understanding
Head of Department for importance of nutrition
Culinary Arts at Westminster than western society”
Kingsway College, London

Ateam of world renowned Chefs were in Bangalore on importance of nutrition than our western society. We need
January 31, 2019 for the Young Chef Olympiad (YCO) the education of nutrition to inform our daily food intake
2019 as the judges for the 5th Edition of YCO 2019, and to use food as medicine rather than rely increasingly
the largest culinary competition in the world. Young Chef on pharmaceuticals. At Westminster Kingsway College, we
Olympiad, conceptualized and executed by International have become the first culinary school in Europe to deliver
Institute of Hotel Management, (IIHM), has become the a Culinary Medicine Course directly for doctors and chefs.
leading platform for young chefs-in-training across the
world to compete and learn from their counterparts across What kind of traditional nutrition food people in the
the globe. The 5th Edition has over 55 countries competing UK prefer?
for a cash prize of $10,000 and the trophy. Chef Gary Hunter, In the UK there is a lot of publicity around cutting down
Head of Department for Culinary Arts at Westminster on our national, weekly meat intake. Vegetarian and
Kingsway College, London, who is one among the panel Vegan food is increasing in popularity and the public are
of judges that includes international culinary personalities generally becoming more aware of the biodiversity issues
like Chef John Wood, Chef Scott Baechler, Chef Enrico Enrico and health issues that are encapsulated around intensive
Bricarello, Chef Abhijit Saha, Chef Avijit Ghosh, Chef Ranveer meat farming methods.
Brar and Chef Enzo Oliveri, represented the UK Government
in Pakistan promoting UK food in 1997 and has recently With lot of attention being drawn at the international
worked as a consultant for City & Guilds to lead the design level on nutrition, how you wish to present food which
of the new Diploma in Professional Cookery qualifications. is nutritious?
In an email interaction with NuFFooDS Spectrum, Chef Gary I think that the presentation of nutritious food is
Hunter shared his views on health and nutrition and tasting paramount in the publicity of a healthy and nutritious
Indian food. Edited excerpts; diet. The general public need to be convinced that
nutritious food is also great to eat. By combining different
India is a country with diversity in all areas including styles of cuisines with different flavour combinations and
food. How was your experience of visiting India and presentations, this will give people the sense of well-
tasting Indian food? being and educational experience.
I have always appreciated the cuisine of India, but on
my visit to the areas of Delhi, Bangalore and Calcutta How do you bring traditional authentic nutritious
this has impressed me even more. Especially to see and food to people who are cosmopolitan and having
taste the difference in the regional cuisines and to learn modern approach?
a little bit about the history and reasons for the particular In the UK we are seeing the rise of ‘street food’ which
ingredients and cooking styles used. is something India has had for time immemorial. Our
concepts of this in the UK is to engage the cosmopolitan
With growing awareness on nutrition globally what society with food that is quick, easy to eat, full of flavour,
do you mean by nutrition food? nutritionally beneficial, ecologically sound and socially
I think that India is way ahead in understanding the sustainable. It’s a really exciting movement that has
certainly gathered pace in the country.

NUFFOODSSPECTRUM | April 2019 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in S2B 39

What is a strong Dr R B Smarta,
Nutraceutical Brand?
MD, Interlink Marketing
A brand provides an important function in the marketplace Consultancy Pvt. Ltd.
by allowing the customer to differentiate products, and either and Hon. Secretary HADSA
(Health Foods and Dietary
repeat a successful (or avoid an unsatisfactory) purchase or Supplements Association)
experience. While making stronger brands right at the stage
of commodity to branded consumer goods, it is important to
look at unmet needs of Medical consumer and brand’s primary

function of identifying its differentiation.

“The important thing is to identify the future that the same. In fact at this moment from consumer point
has already happened”. of view what he needs is a kind of assurance in terms
of quality, safety, efficacy and value for money with its
How aptly Prof. Peter Drucker has explained the relevant and possible desired nutritional output.
futuristic way of looking at sustainable organizational
growth. What can perhaps provide this clarity to make a quick
buying decision…strong brands have to take birth!
Considering the recent happenings in Nutraceutical
domain, we will observe that right from International Moving Towards Open Source Brands
SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals) to Indian SDGs,
there is a fast movement and seriousness in this sector. Commodities exist in the mind of consumer. When
consumer cannot differentiate between two products/
Besides this, the R&D work, international dynamics services then it is perceived as commodity. Then price
of introducing their brands in India and the regulations, becomes determining factor and not the product
which are addressing major issues of Business offerings. Similarly for unfamiliar products, when
Development, future of nutraceuticals is likely to be a consumer receive conflicting information then he treats
consequence of what has really happened. product as commodity. So it is necessary to break free the
product from commodity trap.
Usually strong markets are built by strong brands. In
case of Nutraceuticals when as the industry is likely to A brand provides an important function in the
touch $10 billion by 2022 strong brands will play a major marketplace by allowing the customer to differentiate
role. Brands could be corporate or individual brand. products, and either repeat a successful (or avoid an
unsatisfactory) purchase or experience.
Here we should keep in mind that brand is part of
our company’s DNA that promotes recognition. Brand To escalate the product from commodity to a strong
helps people to identify difference in products and brand can be linked with the trajectory shown in figure
services to take buying decisions. It also assures safety, 1.1.
offers the potential to build relationships with emotional
connections and enhances company value. This model illustrates a need for Nutraceutical
products, when they would like to escalate from common
It is in fact giving a shape, size, texture, symbol and platform of products to a brand.
association with customer needs and takes away the
clutter in sea of brands to identify the right strong brand. Using modified version of this brand in Indian
conditions it is very easy to illustrate role and utility of this
Is it not creating an identity from a commodity? model for Nutraceutical products. You will observe that
when there are low efforts from seller front and obviously
What is a strong brand? there so a low perception from consumer point of view.
In fact many products have got this higher perception of
Looking at the clutter of Nutraceuticals and huge amount consumers when they see the brand ambassador efforts
of product category overload then buyers understand to promote it from seller’s side. For example, Nutricharge
that they have so many choices today as a consumer. This has been built up as a branded Nutraceutical consumer
creates a situation of many “haves” hence there could be
a conflict between hindering decision process or delaying

40 S2B NUFFOODSSPECTRUM | April 2019 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in

product with the influencer/ referral from Amitabh Fig 1.2 4
Bachchan! Essential Keys of
Brand Building
We will also observe that new marketing stage wise
Interlink model for nutraceuticals is taking place for brand Source: © Interlink
building and the stage 1 is referrals and influencers! As a Marketing
result there would be high involvement of seller and also
a consumer. Consultancy Pvt. Ltd.
– By Dr. R.B. Smarta
In our parlor over a period of time we should form
a new word for Nutraceutical consumers as “Medical In case of building further from its perception point of
Consumers” whereby we can carve out FMHCG (Fast view and Medical Consumers’ point of view is essential to
Moving Healthcare Goods) as a separate market. consider esteem and knowledge of the brand.

When this high involvement of seller escalates to As an increase perception of Medical Consumer
closed loop technology and high visibility with right guarantees his increased involvement. This is possible
claims and promises providing desired health outcomes when visibility and all other factors which are narrated in
would establish a stronger position for any newly marketing model are properly addressed. This provides
emerged brand. Strong brands have these all criteria. knowledge.

Let us consider tomorrow a customized nutrition is Knowledge over time combined with differentiation
offered through nutrigenetics and nutrigeniomics, you and positive outcome of experience provides a first
would find that this particular brand along with those stage of esteem for the brand. Over time even Medical
specific combinations would become an open source Consumers defend the brand as it is in a high esteem
brand added to the prescribed diet, recipes which takes which has come up through his experience.
care of olfactory satisfaction inclusive of delicious taste.
Great branding will fail if the company cannot live
Fig 1.1 The evolution of brands from a buyer – seller perspective up to the brand promise. The branding of an airline
Source: Julia Penington*, Dwayne Ball June 2009_Customer won’t matter if the planes fail to arrive on time with the
luggage. The branding of building products won’t matter
Branding of Commodity Products Journal of Brand Management if the material arrives late, damaged, or cracks after the
first freeze.
Process of Branding:
Kellogg’s India has adapted its stance from global
While making stronger brands right at the stage of management and strategic framework to customized
commodity to branded consumer goods, it is important operational strategy suited to the local environment.
to look at unmet needs of Medical consumer and brand’s
primary function of identifying its differentiation. Presently, Kellogg’s is estimated to hold about 60-
65 per cent of India’s breakfast cereal market. The entire
Differentiation and relevance together define Brand transformation from least accepted breakfast cereals to
Strength. Wherein brand strength is a measure of brands commonly taken “cold breakfast” has happened because
ability to exist as a viable entry and to defend itself from of reduced price, wider range of product sizes and
competition and to help drive margin and earnings. This development of packing material specifically for India.
provides a leverage for low involvement towards high
involvement of seller with directed efforts. Logistically also Kellogg’s is well invested in the local
territory. All raw materials, including packaging, are
sourced in India, and the main plant is located close to the
largest market; to minimize cost and maximize availability.

In recent years,Yakult has come up with new attributes,
such as a high-vitamin and zero-fat formulation, a new
pack design, and selective distribution in convenience
stores. Particularly employing a new packaging and
selecting convenience stores as its only distribution
channel was bold decisions for this Brand. However, its
open-minded approach has made the product cater to
multiple consumers trends in the country.

It is like building trust, a trust worthy companion,
a friendly relationship and personality and repeat
experience of performance. These attributes over time
build a very high bond and a trustworthy relationship
with stronger brands and Medical Consumers.

Would you like to build strong brands from your
Nutraceutical products?

NUFFOODSSPECTRUM | April 2019 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in Q&A 41

“Center will support Amit Chopra
FSSAI in ensuring
food is safe and Managing Director- India
and Middle East,
nutritious to India’s Thermo Fisher Scientific
1.3 billion citizens”

Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc., the world leader in What is your objective of setting up the Centre in
serving science, has announced its intent to open India?
a Global Customer Solution centre in partnership The announcement is a testament to our commitment in
with Food Safety and Standards Authority of India bringing world class food testing technologies to India. It
(FSSAI) in Ghaziabad, India. The collaboration helps us realize our mission of enabling our customers to
was confirmed on February 28, 2019 during the make the world healthier, cleaner and safer.
Association of Analytical Communities (AOAC)
- India chapter conference between Thermo How is the Centre different from other food safety
Fisher Scientific and FSSAI. The gathering had labs in the country?
more than 300 dignitaries including international The Customer Solution Center is equipped with advanced
visitors, government officials, industry leaders and analytical solutions that will permit food safety scientists
scientists from food research institutes. The new to overcome a wide range of challenges presented in the
Food Safety Customer Solution centre will focus on routine analysis of food for quality, safety and authenticity.
meeting and exceeding the demands of scientists The Center not only has the capability to address all tests
in food and beverage laboratories by developing required by current legislation and quality requirements
critical workflows and integrated solutions that but also offers vast breadth of technological capabilities to
help build food safety capacity in India. address tests or requirements that are not possible today
but required for tomorrow. For example, the detection of
With the food and beverage industry persistent organic pollutants, such as brominated flame
committed to making what we consume healthier retardants and chlorinated paraffin, are challenging to
and safer, the Thermo Fisher Customer Solution detect within food, but by leveraging the sensitivity and
centre will serve as a regional hub for scientists, selectivity of Orbitrap mass spectrometry technology,
partners and the FSSAI to collaborate with subject these can now be measured within a routine food safety
matter experts. The skilled analysts at the centre analysis laboratory environment.
will focus on development, training and support
for next-generation workflows and integrated The Center will provide a platform for Thermo
solutions across chromatography and mass Fisher’s expert analysts to work together with scientists
spectrometry, in collaboration with the FSSAI. The from industry and regulatory bodies to develop critical
official inauguration of the center is planned for workflows for food matrices like fruits, vegetables, spices
first week of April this year. NuFFooDS Spectrum etc. which are specific to India. The workflows developed,
spoke to Amit Chopra, Managing Director- India along with the support and training provided by the
and Middle East, Thermo Fisher Scientific about Center, will help in building capabilities in the country for
the centre and how it will help the food industry. food testing.
Edited excerpts;
How many staff the Centre will have when fully
operational?
The center will have five fully trained application scientists
with over 70 years of combined expertise in the analysis

42 Q&A NUFFOODSSPECTRUM | April 2019 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in

of food and beverage having over 60 peer reviewed INGREDIENTS NEWS
scientific publications in recognized journals. Some of
these scientists will be from food labs including national PureCircle to launch
referral labs with world class expertise in their respective stevia leaf sweeteners
domain. in Singapore

What kind of partnership you have with FSSAI in PureCircle has received approval for the
setting up the Centre? expanded use of its next-generation stevia
The objective of this partnership is to build world class leaf sweetener, Reb M, in Singapore. With
laboratories and food testing capabilities in India by this launch, food and beverage companies in
employing skilled analysts trained to develop critical Singapore will be able to use the ingredient in
workflows and provide facility that can offer latest zero and low-calorie products. Across the world,
innovations to conduct high quality food testing. This will demand for stevia is growing, as beverage and
include the strengthening of state food laboratories and food companies are increasingly using plant-
referral laboratories across all states and union territories. based zero-calorie sweetener. PureCircle has
significantly bolstered its capacity to supply new
The main activities of the Customer Solution Center generation stevia sweeteners such as RebM.
will be to provide training in the field of food safety to FSSAI These sweeteners are claimed to be offered at
scientific personnel and state’s food safety departments. cost-effective prices, are plant-based and non-
Another area of focus will be to conduct research, method GMO certified. Earlier this month, PureCircle
development and workflow development specific to the announced the results of a scientific study, carried
Indian market and implement them at the state food out in collaboration with Biopharmaceutical
laboratories. This Center will also host workshops and Research (BRI). The study found that the
seminars in collaboration with global regulatory bodies, company’s new generation stevia leaf sweeteners
experts and key opinion leaders from the industry such as Reb D and Reb M do not impact the
regularly to provide insights into recent regulations and system of bacteria in the human digestive system
explore the latest developments and innovations to or the ‘gut microbiome’, which is essential in
address the key challenges. maintaining a healthy immune system.

Overall the collaboration with FSSAI to set up the Beneo invests $4.8 M
Customer Solution Center will enable laboratories to be in vegetable protein
proactive in addressing food safety related concerns. production plant
The Center is equipped with advanced technologies and
equipment that will help build capacity in the region to Global functional ingredient manufacturer Beneo
and thereby exhibit our commitment to live our Mission has opened a $4.8 million vegetable protein
– ‘To enable our customers to make the world healthier, production plant in Wanze, Belgium, to capitalise
cleaner and safer’ on the increasing demand for meat alternatives.
BioWanze, a subsidiary of Beneo’s sister firm
How this Centre will help the food industry in the CropEnergies, will operate the facility, which is
country? part of the existing BioWanze biorefinery. The
The Customer Solution Center in Ghaziabad is uniquely biorefinery uses the entire raw material utilised
placed to help scientists, partners and regulatory bodies, in production to manufacture high-quality food,
like the FSSAI, and collaborate to increase food safety and feed and fuel with zero waste. Beneo is a division
quality, while expanding the capacity and productivity of of the Südzucker Group and engaged in the
food testing in the region. The center will act as a regional production of functional ingredients derived
hub where collaborators and Thermo Fisher’s skilled from chicory roots, beet sugar, rice and wheat.
analysts can work together within new, ground breaking According to Beneo, the ingredient can be used
laboratories to develop the next-generation of workflows. to replace meat in a range of traditionally meat-
The center is equipped with latest innovations in liquid, based products, such as burgers, nuggets and
gas and ion chromatography, mass spectrometry, and bolognese sauce.
trace element analysis. The workflows developed, along
with the support and training provided by the Customer
Solution Center, will support the FSSAI in ensuring the
manufacture, storage, distribution, sale and import of
food is safe and nutritious to India’s 1.3 billion citizens.

NUFFOODSSPECTRUM | April 2019 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in SUPPLIER NEWS 43

Agilent introduces PackIt enters the
new products in India
meal kit industry
Agilent Technologies architecture platform, based
With the grocery delivery and meal kit
has introduced Gas on the innovative technologies industry forecasted to reach over $100
billion by 2025, maintaining freshness and
Chromatography Systems of the Intuvo 9000 GC, food safety, while still remaining profitable
continues to play a major role in this fast-
8890 & 8860 and Cary 3500 Agilent’s flagship existing GC evolving industry. In line with this, PackIt
has launched new line of three commercial
UV-Vis Spectrophotometer for system. Continuous system totes – Freezable Ultra Tote, Delivery Tote
and Ready Tote. Each tote is commercial
the Indian market. The new monitoring, automated grade and
designed to
Agilent 8890 and 8860 GC diagnostics and built-in offer meal kit
and grocery
systems extend the company's troubleshooting routines will delivery
companies a
portfolio of robust analytical help labs avoid unplanned sustainable,
reusable
instruments and Cary 3500 downtime and increase lab solution for
its customers.
UV-Vis system is an innovative efficiency. The Cary 3500 Each tote
features
spectrophotometer designed will enable laboratories to PackIt's
patented
to help life science, pharma make substantial gains in Ecofreeze
technology, freezable
and biopharma research efficiency as it can run multiple gel built into the walls of the bag. The
totes collapse flat to freeze in commercial
communities simplify their experiments simultaneously, freezers overnight. PackIt's new sturdy
Freezable Ultra and Delivery Totes replaces
analyses, optimize laboratory allowing labs to obtain more boxed delivery packaging and has a cooling
time span of 12 to 24 hours.
productivity, and ultimately results in the same amount

help bring new therapeutics of time—and it also extends

to market faster. The 8890 the opportunity to design

and 8860 GCs are built on a experiments in ways that have

next-generation electronic not been possible before.

Thermo Fisher to open food safety customer solution centre

Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. has beverage laboratories by developing and beverage industry committed
announced its intent to open a critical workflows and integrated to making what we consume
Global Customer Solution centre solutions that help build food safety healthier and safer, the Thermo
in partnership with Food Safety capacity in India. With the food Fisher Customer Solution centre will
and Standards Authority of India serve as a regional hub for scientists,
(FSSAI) in Ghaziabad, India. The partners and the FSSAI to collaborate
collaboration was confirmed with subject matter experts. The
during the Association of Analytical skilled analysts at the centre will
Communities (AOAC) - India chapter focus on development, training
conference between Thermo Fisher and support for next-generation
Scientific and FSSAI. The new Food workflows and integrated solutions
Safety Customer Solution centre will across chromatography and mass
focus on meeting and exceeding the spectrometry, in collaboration with
demands of scientists in food and the FSSAI.

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

Promega releases Tetra Pak launches
new tool to unique cube packaging
check water
contamination Tetra Pak has launched a new packaging that allows every six products
to form a cube, improving the use of space in distribution and storage.
Promega Corporation’s new Water-Glo Called the Tetra Classic Aseptic 65ml Cube, the package is said to be
System offers water plant operators an efficient solution for dairy, juice and liquid food. The package
a rapid, highly sensitive and flexible adds to the company’s Tetra Classic Aseptic family, but compared
measurement tool for monitoring to the Classic Aseptic 65ml packages, the new offering requires less
microbial contamination in freshwater, secondary packaging and needs approximately 40 per cent less space
process water, seawater or wastewater to transport the same quantity of products. The new package is now
samples. The Water-Glo System, available with hand packing for secondary boxes. It has been in use
launched by Promega recently, since December 2018 at a customer in Southeast Asia selling coconut
uses bioluminescent technology to milk as a cooking ingredient in markets where logistics infrastructure
measure adenosine triphosphate or is a challenge.
ATP, the "energy currency" of all living
cells that degrades rapidly when a cell Bosch introduces next-gen
dies. Even the slightest change in ATP flow wrapping machine
levels acts as an early warning system
to assess the presence of live microbes Bosch Packaging Technology has launched the first machine of its
and possible dangerous pathogens next generation of flow wrappers on the European and Asian markets
in water. ATP detection provides – the Pack 403. As the successor of the Pack 401, the Pack 403 is a fully-
technicians a number of advantages automated horizontal flow wrapper for medium to high speed wrapping.
compared to other methods for The narrow machine can be used for wrapping bars and biscuits, as well
detecting microbes in water such as chocolate, cookies and crackers. It features a removable discharge
as heterotrophic plate count (HPC), belt, upgrades to the cross-seal and fin seal units, and a highly intuitive,
flow cytometry and indirect methods user-centred design. Compared to the previous machine series, several
such as turbidity or pressure drop. updates were made to improve process efficiency and film control,
Benefits include sensitivity to directly including as standard the servo-driven power feed roller to optimise
assess living cells from any type of film tension and tracking. The new fin seal unit consists of pressure-
microbe even in samples with low controlled fin wheels to easily adjust the machine when running a
microbial load, facilitating early variety of products with different films.
intervention, or high biomass load,
allowing technicians to monitor the
effectiveness of biocide treatments or
biological filtration processes.

NUFFOODSSPECTRUM | April 2019 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in PEOPLE NEWS 45

Mondelez India appoints Panse
as Talent Acquisition Leader

Senior HR industry leader Saleel and proactively develop solutions Anand
Panse has joined snack company to meet those needs. He was
Mondelez as Talent Acquisition also responsible for developing Sundaresan
Leader, India. Panse joins the country talent acquisition plans,
food company from MSD India, analyzing recruitment needs, to lead DSM
where he worked for five years managing the recruitment
as Associate Director, Talent process from posting and sourcing in Asia Pacific
Acquisition. During his stint with the role until offer acceptance
MSD India, he was responsible for in close collaboration with the Royal DSM, a global science-
delivering a comprehensive talent Hiring Manager and HRBP. Panse based company active in health,
acquisition strategy to support has worked with companies such nutrition and sustainable
all divisions/functions in the as Cipla, Ray & Berndtson and living has appointed Anand
company by partnering with the Personnel Search Services in his Sundaresan as Regional Vice
business leaders to understand two-decade-long career. He is an President of DSM Human
current and future talent needs alumnus of Mumbai University. Nutrition & Health, Asia Pacific.
Anand Sundaresan, a US
PepSiCo takes Laxman National, is an experienced
Narasimhan to new heights global business leader, with an
established record of success in
Laxman Narasimhan, currently Chief Executive Officer, Latin America creating and driving the vision
(LATAM), Europe and Sub-Saharan Africa (ESSA), has been appointed to to deliver revenue, profit and
the newly created position of Global Chief Commercial Officer, PepsiCo, market share performance in
reporting to PepsiCo Chairman and CEO Ramon Laguarta. In this new role, different environments. Anand
Narasimhan will shape PepsiCo's integrated long-term growth strategy will be based in Singapore, the
and lead the development of world-class commercial and marketing regional headquarters for DSM
capabilities. Narasimhan will oversee PepsiCo's Global Category Groups, Nutritional Products and home
Insights, Commercialization, Design, Global R&D, E-Commerce and to the state-of-the-art regional
Strategy. Silviu Popovici, who has led ESSA reporting to Narasimhan will Innovation Application Centre.
now be Chief Executive Officer, ESSA and report directly to Laguarta. He started his career at Merrick
Narasimhan will continue to lead PepsiCo's LATAM Systems, an energy software
sector on an interim basis. Narasimhan has held company, before joining Dow
several senior leadership positions with increasing Chemicals Company in 2008.
responsibility during his tenure at PepsiCo. In During his time with Dow
his most recent role, he oversaw the company's Chemicals he assumed senior
food and beverage businesses across LATAM commercial and marketing
and ESSA, with a focus on unlocking new leadership roles before taking
growth opportunities for the two organizations, over as Global Business Director,
harmonizing commercial strategies and operating Polyols, based in Michigan, US.
practices, developing talent, and evolving culture. Anand has also lived and worked
Narasimhan joined PepsiCo in 2012 from McKinsey in China and Thailand and gained
& Company, where he served almost 20 years significant exposure to the
in a variety of positions, including as a American, Middle Eastern and
senior partner, and co-leader of the Asian markets in his various roles.
Global Consumer and Shopper Insights
Practice, as well as overseeing the
firm's research on emerging market
consumers.

46 PEOPLE NEWS NUFFOODSSPECTRUM | April 2019 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in

Coco-Cola India Unilever announces
ropes in HR new leadership roles
Head for India,
South-West Asia Nitin Paranjpe, President, Foods & Refreshment, Unilever has been
appointed to the new role of Chief Operating Officer. Nitin will be
Beverage major Coca-Cola India has responsible for all of Unilever’s go-to-market organisations, driving
announced appointment of Nishi and co-ordinating in-year performance across the countries in line
Kulshreshtha Chaturvedi as Vice with the divisional strategies. Hanneke Faber, currently President,
President, Human Resources, India Europe, has been appointed
and South West Asia. Nishi will lead President, Foods & Refreshment.
talent recruitment and advancement, Kees Kruythoff, President,
performance enablement, and Home Care, has decided to
leadership development functions leave Unilever after 27 years
for the company in India and South of service to pursue external
West Asia. Nishi joined the company opportunities. Peter ter Kulve,
in 2012 as National Head - Human Chief Digital Officer and EVP
Resources as part of Hindustan Coca- South East Asia & Australasia
Cola Beverages Pvt Ltd (HCCB), and (SEAA), has been appointed
has risen through the ranks within President, Home Care. The roles
the Coca-Cola system. Nishi has of President Europe and EVP
over 20 years' experience in human SEAA will not be replaced. The
resources across FMCG, healthcare, country organisations in these regions will report into the COO. Sanjiv
oil and gas and energy sectors Mehta, EVP, South Asia, has been promoted as President, South Asia
working with Schneider Electric, and will also join the Unilever Leadership Executive, bringing further
Cairn Energy and Baxter Healthcare emerging markets expertise to the executive team. All changes will
prior to Coca-Cola. be effective from May 1, 2019.

Dick Boer, Dinesh Paliwal to
join Nestle’s Board of Directors

Nestlé has announced that it proposes Dick Boer, former President
and CEO of Ahold Delhaize N.V., and Dinesh Paliwal, President and
CEO of Harman International Industries Inc., a subsidiary of Samsung
Electronics Co., Ltd., for election to its Board of Directors. The elections
will take place at the Annual General Meeting on April 11, 2019. Two
current directors, Jean-Pierre Roth, and Ruth Oniang’o will retire from
the Board, as they have reached the age limit set out in the Board
Regulations. The Board also proposes the individual re-election of
the Chairman and the other current members of the Board. Dick
Boer, a Dutch citizen, was President and CEO of Ahold Delhaize N.V.,
one of the world’s largest food retail groups and a leader in both
supermarkets and e-commerce, until his retirement in 2018. Prior to
the merger of Ahold and Delhaize in 2016, he served as President and
CEO of Ahold. Dinesh Paliwal, an American citizen with an Overseas
Citizenship of India, is President and CEO of Harman International, an
independent subsidiary of Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. He served
Harman International (a public company) as Chairman and CEO
from 2007 until 2017, when Samsung acquired the company. Prior
to joining Harman in 2007, he was President Global Markets and
Technology of ABB Ltd.

NUFFOODSSPECTRUM | April 2019 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in SCIENCE NEWS 47

Scientists link avocado seed
extract with inflammation

A group of researchers at the Penn State University in the US has shown

that an extract from the seeds of avocados exhibited anti-inflammatory

properties in a laboratory study. The researchers believe that avocado

seed extract represents a potential source for novel anti-inflammatory

compounds that could be developed as a functional food ingredient or

pharmaceuticals. The researchers have developed the extract over the last

decade as a food colorant and it is not known whether the compounds

responsible for the extract's vibrant orange color play any role in its ability IARI uses
gamma rays
to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory mediators. To determine the to boost
maize yield
anti-inflammatory properties of the avocado seed extract, the researchers
Scientists at the Indian
used cell culture models and enzymes that are important in Agricultural Research Institute
(IARI) in New Delhi have found
immune response and inflammatory diseases. The that pre-treatment of maize
seeds with a small dose of
researchers have filed a patent application for gamma radiation improves
crop productivity and yield
the use of the extract as a food color additive. without using chemical
fertilizers. The study has shown
The identification of potential that exposing the seeds to
gamma rays before sowing
beneficial biological activity, if positively influenced the
germination and vegetative
it is borne out in subsequent growth of maize. Gamma rays
are emitted by radioactive
studies, may add value to nuclei, one such source being
Cobalt-60 (Co-60), an isotope
the extract and provide of the element Cobalt. For their
study, the scientists obtained
additional avenues for development. maize seeds from the National
Seed Corporation of India in
NDRI develops sensors New Delhi and exposed them
to check dairy products to various doses of gamma
radiation from the Cobalt-60
Scientists at the National Dairy the electrospinning technique and source facility available in
Research Institute (NDRI), Karnal have filed for the patent. The cost of their institute. According to
have developed sensors to the sensor tag, measuring 1 sq inch, the researchers, the gamma
indicate the quality of packaged is only Rs 2 and it will be visible radiation-induced phenomena
food by glancing at the colour. in the packaged food through a in the maize seeds might be
The colour will be visible on the window of the packet. The colour of due to change in the ascorbic
sensor tag that will be inside the good as well as risky dairy food will acid content, higher activation
packaged food. Yellow colour be printed on the packet, showing of ribonucleicacid (RNA) or
will indicate the product is fit to whether it can be bought or not. protein synthesis of irradiated
consume and light red will mean The NDRI has standardised the seeds.
it is spoiled. The scientists have technology and is ready to transfer
developed this sensor tag using it to the dairy sector.

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

ICAR, CSIR to work PAU to
together for agri and food
commercialise
The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and the Council of
Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) have agreed to collaborate in sugarcane
the areas of food and agriculture. A memorandum of understanding
(MoU) has been signed by Trilochan Mohapatra, Secretary of juice bottling
Department of Agricultural Research and Education and director
general of ICAR, and Shekhar C Mande, Secretary of Department for technology
Scientific & Industrial Research and director general of CSIR. Both the
sides have agreed to collaborate and work together on mutually agreed The Punjab Agricultural University
areas of agri-foods, medicinal and aromatic plants, nutraceuticals, (PAU) has inked a pact with M.R.
precision agriculture, big data analysis, use of artificial intelligence, Enterprises, Karnataka, for the
genetic modifications in cotton, application of sensors in agriculture, commercialization of sugarcane
post-harvest management and agricultural mechanization. The huge juice bottling technology. Dr N.S.
network of Krishi Vigyan Kendras available with ICAR will be roped in Bains, Director of Research, PAU,
for technology demonstration and dissemination. and C. Bettegowda, Managing
Director, M.R. Enterprises, Mandya
ICRISAT, NIN to address malnutrition signed the Memorandum of
and anemia in young girls Agreement on behalf of their
respective organizations.
To counter the malnutrition ICRISAT and NIN will join hands According to the MoA, the
and anemia among adolescent with the Telangana government university offers non-exclusive
girls and pregnant women, the to tackle these health issues. rights to the above mentioned
International Crop Research ICRISAT would be giving Pearl company for bottling of sugarcane
Institute for Semi-Arid Tropics Millet Chikki, a blend of pearl juice by PAU within India. The
(ICRISAT) in association with millet, peanut, sesame and technology has been developed
National Institute of Nutrition jaggery to 180 girl students aged for shelf stable, preservative free,
(NIN) has launched “FeFA (Iron between 16-19 residing at Social ready to serve bottled sugar
for Adolescents) Girls” Project Welfare Hostels. Alongside, IFA cane juice. The sugarcane juice
recently in Hyderabad. The (Iron-folic acid supplementation) is thermally processed to kill
would be given to another team microorganisms and increase
of girls to see the outcome and shelf life, thereby offering a
difference. The combined team completely healthy and hygienic
of ICRISAT, NIN and Social Welfare product in comparison to that
Hostels will collect the samples sold by the roadside vendors. Dr
before and after the three months S.S. Chahal, Adjunct Professor,
programme, to see the effect of Technology Marketing and IPR
the Pearl millet chikki and IFA. Cell informed that PAU has signed
3 MoAs for Sugarcane Juice
Bottling Technology with various
companies across the nation.

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

560 participants showcase
new innovations at AAHAR 2019
Bringingthe prominent ‘brands’offood and hospitality
industries from India and rest of the world , the
five days annual event of the India Trade Promotion
Organisation (ITPO), AAHAR 2019 was held on March 12-16

at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi. After drawing over 40,000

business visitors and delegates from India and abroad,

the 34th edition of AAHAR- a specialized International

Food and Hospitality event of ITPO and apex industry

bodies concluded with successful note on March 16.

The event was jointly inaugurated by Paban K.

Borthakur, Chairman & Managing Director, Agricultural and

Processed Food Products Development Authority (APEDA)

and Deepak Kumar, Executive Director, ITPO on March 12. Dignitaries lighting the lamp to mark opening of 5 days
Speaking on the occasion, Deepak Kumar highlighted AAHAR 2019 on March 12 in New Delhi

the salient features of the event. He indicated that despite

a huge space demand for participation, the fair could Deepak Kumar said that AAHAR is an excellent

not be organized on a large scale due to space constraints platform for trade promotion and business networking

(only 22 per cent available) as the event has been hosted for all the stakeholders including top echelons of the hotel

especially when ITPO is in the midst of implementing its and hospitality industry including CEOs, general managers,

ambitious project of redevelopment of Pragati Maidan into executive chefs, executive house keepers, purchase

a world class International Exhibition-cum-Convention managers, senior representatives from catering industry

Centre (IECC). and academic institutions, training hotel management

While expressing happiness over considerable professionals.

participation of the foreign countries, he informed that Paban K. Borthakur pointed out that APEDA

the fair has elicited participation from countries including participated with over 60 exporters under AAHAR banner

China, Denmark, Germany, Hong Kong, Italy, Indonesia, with an objective to enhance India’s global export of food

Israil, Japan, Malaysia, Peru, Russia, Singapore, Spain, items. Complimenting ITPO for continuing legacy of all

Turkey, USA, UK, Ukraine and UAE. the events despite the IECC project, he was confident

AWARDS PRESENTED Cremica Food Industries Ltd won the Silver Medal and
Damyaa P J Foods Pvt. Ltd. was honored with the Bronze
Santosh Kumar Sarangi, Joint Secretary and Pravin Medal, while English Oven (Mrs Bectors Foods Specialties
Bonigala, Joint Secretary, Department of Commerce, Ltd) was presented the commendation certificate.
Government of India and Deepak Kumar, Executive
Director, ITPO jointly presented the Awards for Excellence Rational International India Pvt Ltd was honored
in display in different categories. These include: F&B with the Gold medal, while the Silver medal was
Equipment, Food & Processed Food, Hospitality & Décor conferred to Brushes & Brushes (Rubbermaid) and the
Solution and Foreign sector. Bronze was presented to Horeca Enterprises (Sunnex).
I P Cleaning India Pvt. Ltd. was also commended in F&B
APEDA, participated with around 60 constituents was Equipment categories.
commended with the Gold Medal. In Foreign sector, the
Gold Medal was conferred to the Commercial office Reforms Design, Envogue Furnishings India Pvt.
of Peru in India, the Embassy of Republic of Indonesia Ltd (Obsessions) and Soft Sensations Pvt Ltd bagged
bagged the Silver Medal while, Solomon Trade, Russia the Gold, Silver and the Bronze medals respectively
won the Bronze Medal. Special commendations were in Hospitality and Décor Solution sector. S.R. Luxury
conferred to Olives from Spain and Harada Tea Sales, (Hotel Amenities) was honored with the commendation
Japan. In the category of Food & Processed Food, Davar’s certificate.
(Tropolite Foods Pvt Ltd.) bagged the Gold Medal, while

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

April that the next edition of AAHAR would be
hosted with a larger participation response
drink technology India 2019 10-12, after completion of the project.

The leading platform for the beverage, and 2019 Present on the occasion were V.K. Macker,
President, Food & Hospitality Support
liquid food industry in India, will focus on Beer Association of India (FHSAI), Rajendra Mittal,
Senior Representative Association of Resource
and brewing equipment, Fruit juices and Spirits in Bangalore. Companies for Hospitality Industry of India
(ARCHII), Hema Maity, General Manager, ITPO,
The platform will have Round Table Talks, oiltech-forum, special senior government officials, participants
from India and abroad, delegates and media
areas like the place2buyer and Buyer Seller-Meetings. representatives.

 BIEC, Bangalore  https://www.drinktechnology-india.com With more than 560 participants from
India and abroad, AAHAR 2019 actively
PackPlus South 2019 April shares the latest consumers trends, concerns,
10 – 13, new innovations and trade avenues. The
event is committed to development of
The trade fair for packaging and printing 2019 environment- friendly technologies, and
providing business delegates with exciting
technology will bring major manufacturers and high quality products and services. Offering
new opportunities for exports, the event
suppliers from the industry together at one point. Exhibitors have also offers an insight to operational and food
safety concerns and innovations to become
the opportunity to present their products to an interested audience. energy-efficient, finding budget-friendly
raw materials boosting productivity are all
In addition to the trade fair is also a conference addressing the format of mind, while still aiming for greater
profitability. The display profile is segregated
important issues in the printing and packaging industry. into four categories in AAHAR namely, ‘Food
Products, Ingredients & Additives’, ‘F & B
 BEIC, Bengaluru  www.packplussouth.in Equipment’, ‘House Keeping & Engineering
Equipment’ and Confectionary.
18th World Congress May
on Obesity & Nutrition 15-16, This 34th edition of the event is significant
2019 especially when India is considered among
the fastest growing economies in the world
The conference will feature a reciprocated, adrenalizing and its food processing as well as hospitality
and multifaceted program including workshops, plenary sessions sectors are recognized as major attractions
as well as oral abstract and poster sessions. Under the theme of for the Foreign Direct Investments due to
‘Platform to Share New Treatments and Research for Obesity’ the conducive business environment, reforms
meeting will address the entire patient pathway and look beyond and favourable government policies.
the scientific topics alone. The conference will replenish a forum to
encourage ideas and establish collaborations as well as to make The fair has been organised with support
up extreme discussions. Extended networking opportunities will of the Ministry of Food Processing Industries,
foster communications between delegates. Agricultural and Processed Food Products
 Perth, Australia Development Authority (APEDA) and
 https://obesitycongress.nutritionalconference.com/ apex industry associations, Association of
Resource Companies for Hospitality Industry
26th World Nutrition Congress June of India (ARCHII), Hotel and Restaurant
17-18, Equipment Manufacturers Association of
India (HOTREMAI), All India Food Processors
Euroscicon Ltd organises “26th World Nutrition 2019 Association (AIFPA), Food & Hospitality
Support Association of India (FHSAI),
Congress” on the Theme "Where the best in Federation of Indian Food and Hospitality
Industry (FIFHI) and Forum of Indian Food
science and Health connect". It includes prompt Keynote Importers (FIFI).

presentations, Oral presentations (Speaker forum and Young

research forum), Poster presentations, and Exhibitions. It

will bring all the Scientists, Professors, Bussiness people

and Delegates together. The event is intended to provide an

outstanding opening to the experts in the field of nutrition to

discuss latest research and challenges.

 London, UK  https://worldnutritioncongress.euroscicon.com/