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4 EDITORIAL NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | December 2021 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in

Playing ‘Catch up’

Dr Milind Kokje Local micro food processing units will also help in
having a range of more innovative products. As these
Chief Editor units will be operated by women’s self-help groups, co-
operatives and local entrepreneurs they may be having
India’s lower level of processing of foods has been knowledge of a lot of local traditional food products
a matter of concern because of various reasons, developed from the local agricultural produces. They
one being the very high food wastage caused by will be able to produce such products on a commercial
inadequate processing. The Indian food processing scale. As CFTRI is helping them by setting up the units,
market was $263 billion in 2019-20. By 2025 the food it can also take care of analytical aspects and guiding in
processing industry is expected to be worth over half a perfecting such products.
trillion dollars.
Understanding the importance of local processing,
Despite being such a huge industry and market and former Minister for Food Processing Industries Harsimrat
being the second-largest producer of fruit and vegetables, Kaur Badal had initiated efforts promoting local
merely 2 per cent of it is processed. The situation is better processing. The ministry was drawing an agro produce
in the case of milk as 35 per cent of milk is processed. The map to decide what type of agri produce can be
country’s share in global exports is just about 2.8 per cent. processed in which areas, depending upon the locally
available grains, fruits and vegetables.
Several efforts have been made in the last few years
to improve the level of food processing. The government Experts feel that the micro food processing sector can
sanctioned 41 food parks of which 22 have been be a growth driver of the food processing sector and the
functioning and 16 more have received final approval. economy, with micro units churning out more innovative
products. The government is encouraging formalisation
As another important step, the country’s premier of micro food processing enterprises to enhance the
research institute in food technology, Mysore-based competitiveness of existing individual micro-enterprises
Central Food Technological Research Institute (CFTRI) will, in the unorganised sector. A scheme has been launched to
now, lend its expertise and support to women’s self-help assist 2,00,000 micro food processing units for providing
groups (SHGs) and rural entrepreneurs keen on setting up financial, technical and business support for upgradation
food processing units in their villages. The objective is to of these enterprises.
enable poor households in rural areas access gainful self-
employment and skilled wage employment opportunities India has the potential to increase its processed food
with focus on helping small entrepreneurs – individual and exports. Currently, it is low and dominated by low value
group – with business support services and credit support. added products. However, increasing exports demands
impeccable quality and competitive pricing of products.
Having rural-based food processing enterprises has Unfortunately, Indian products are non-competitive on
benefits other than helping the rural people to earn both counts, points out a KPMG report of May 2021.
livelihood and local employment generation. First, it
will widen the base of the food processing sector and While having a number of smaller food processing
naturally enhance the percentage of food processed. It units in villages will widen the base of the food
will also contribute to the transformation of food systems. processing sector, the challenge of ensuring quality
and international standards must be addressed for the
The most important benefit will be that it will reduce exports to shoot up.
the distances between the production centres and
processing centres, which is crucial from the point of
transportation and logistics expenses and reduction in
wastage. Currently, one-third of the produced food is
wasted due to inefficient production and storing and
preservation practices and inadequate infrastructure,
among other reasons. A 2019-report by the Food and Land
Use Coalition estimates the hidden cost caused by the
various aspects related to wastage is $12 trillion per year.

Volume 9  |  Issue 04  |  December 2021
www.nuffoodsspectrum.in

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6 INSIDE NUFFNOUOFDFOSOSDPSESCPTERCUTMRUM| |DecMemarbcehr 20210 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in

WFH SPARKS 20COVER STORY

‘FUNCTIONAL
SNACKING’
TREND

Health is high on the agenda for Indian consumers. As a part of post-COVID-19 food and drink
resolutions, 48 per cent of consumers say they would follow a diet that reduces the risk of lifestyle
diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, etc. Consumers are also prioritising natural ingredients,
high protein and high fibre content in food. The growing shift towards healthy eating has, in turn,
encouraged brands to innovate and reformulate with healthier snacks, without compromising on
taste, throughout 2021.

NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | December 2021 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in INSIDE 7

PPP FSSAI Inititiative

28 38

How Academia-Industry How Trans Fat
can reshape food industry wreaks health havoc

Education Arun Singhal,

32 CEO, FSSAI, New Delhi

Ayurveda turns hot career option Event Report

Food Processing 42

34 4th ICFN–2021

Major upheavals mark "Market economics of medical
food processing space food is showing great surge"

Karan Chechi, REGULARS

Director, TechSci Research, Noida Editorial 04

Fortification Video Snippets 08

36 Regulatory News 09

Ensuring all Indians benefit Finance News 11
from fortified staples
Start-Up News 12
Tarun Vij,
Company News 15
Country Director- India, Global Alliance for
Improved Nutrition (GAIN), New Delhi World News 18

People News 44

Ingredients News 45

R&D News 47

Supplier News 49

Let’s Talk Food 50

8 VIDEO SNIPPETS NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | December 2021 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in

Arun Singhal, Acknowledgements
Chief Executive Officer, Thank you very much for the coverage on Good Food Institute.
Food Safety and The November issue is filled with information on smart protein,
Standards Authority which is fantastic. Would love to do more in the future as it's an
of India (FSSAI), New exciting time with a lot of ecosystem building, venture creation,
Delhi shares updates on and acceleration coming to fruition.
the Front-Of-Package-
Labelling (FOPL) - Varun Deshpande, Mumbai
regulations.
The content in the November edition looks promising. Thank you
Scan the QR Code » for featuring a story on gummies. Also, the 'Startup of the day'
concept that you have come up with sounds interesting.
Dr Neeraj Mahindroo,
Dean, School of Health - Jagadish Jain, Hyderabad
Sciences, University
of Petroleum and Mycoproteins from fungi do have a good chance as a food
Energy Studies (UPES), product in India. Thank you for the story on 'Fungi replacing
Dehradun shares meat for good'.
his views on food
processing as a 'sunrise - Manjari Chandra, New Delhi
industry' with Make in
India focus. "The article on our company, BL Agro, covered by NuFFooDS
Spectrum was a wholesome one on what we do and how we
Scan the QR Code » do. Starting from our journey to where we would be in a couple
of years was beautifully covered by the magazine. Thank you so
Nishant Rathi, much for covering us!
Chief Executive Officer
and Founder, NeoSOFT - Ashish Khandelwal, Bareilly
technologies, Mumbai
tells us how technology Accept our compliments for a wonderfully informative article
can act as a response written on the growing trend of plant-based alternatives for
to food security. animal meat. Each of the sections adds to the comprehensive
coverage of the subject. I am also grateful for the coverage
Scan the QR Code » provided to LabelBlind.

- Rashida Vapiwala, Mumbai

Thanks for your feedback. We have taken note of
your suggestions and will surely try to incorporate
the content accordingly in coming issues. Please
keep sending us your feedback and updating us
on your views about the issue and keep giving
your opinions on the content.

– Editor

Please send your feedback to
[email protected]

NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | December 2021 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in REGULATORY NEWS 9

Govt makes import India exports products
derived from jackfruit, passion
substitution efforts fruit & nutmeg to Australia

for availability of The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export
Development Authority (APEDA) facilitated exports of the first
walnuts consignment of various value-added and nutri-rich products
derived from Jackfruit, Passion
The first consignment of Kashmiri walnuts fruit and Nutmeg (Jaiphal) sourced
was recently flagged off from Budgam in from farmers in Thrissur, Kerala,
Jammu & Kashmir. A truck carrying 2,000 kgs to Melbourne, Australia. These
was despatched to Bengaluru, Karnataka products have a shelf life of more
under the One District, One Product (ODOP) than one year. APEDA is promoting
Initiative of the Ministry of Commerce & exports of value-added and health
Industry. Kashmir accounts for 90 per cent of products as part of Prime Minister
India’s walnut production. Recognising that Narendra Modi’s aim for achieving
walnuts were being imported into India on a $400 billion merchandise exports
large scale despite the availability of Kashmir by 2021-22. Jackfruit, originated in
walnuts, the ODOP team began an in-depth Western Ghats, was declared the
market analysis and stakeholder consultations state fruit of Kerala in March, 2018.
in Kashmir. Further, importers of walnuts in The largest tree borne fruit is dense
India were contacted and through dedicated in fiber, protein, vitamins and
handholding at both ends, the ODOP team was minerals. The tropical fruit is the
able to facilitate the procurement. Such efforts popular meat substitute among
also give a boost to the Aatmanirbhar Bharat vegans due to its protein content.
campaign as, for instance, in this case The major export destinations of
the Bangalore-based importer, Jackfruit are Singapore, Nepal,
who was previously Qatar, Germany etc. On the other
sourcing walnuts from hand, Passion fruit is rich in antioxidants, vitamins and fiber. It
the US, is now able is a beneficial fruit with a healthful nutrition profile important
to distribute quality for skin, vision and immune system.
walnuts at a fraction
of the import cost.

Genetic version of Indian rice & chickpea to ensure nutritional security

Union Minister of State plant biodiversity and genomic and High Throughput (HTP) Field
(Independent Charge) Science diversity towards food and Phenotyping' for sustainable
& Technology; Minister of State nutritional security of the Nation. agriculture, has also opened up.
(Independent Charge) Earth The 'NIPGR First Translational Along with the other research
Sciences; MoS PMO, Personnel, Facility Network for Speed Breeding platforms in this institute, such
Public Grievances, Pensions, as, the National Genomics and
Atomic Energy and Space, Dr Genotyping Facility (NGGF), State
Jitendra Singh released the Genetic of the Art Advanced Proteomics
Version of Indian rice and chickpea and Metabolomics Platforms and
(DNA panArray) developed by Plant Transformation Platforms,
National Institute of Plant Genome this Translational Facility and the
Research (NIPGR), New Delhi. Chips will tap the huge potential
The two DNA chips for rice and of Indian agricultural biodiversity
chickpea, IndRA and IndiCA, are towards achieving the goals of the
the first Pan-Genome genotyping national mission programmes and
arrays in these two crops and will Sustainable Development Goals
tap the huge potential of Indian (SDG) zero hunger goal.

10 REGULATORY NEWS NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | December 2021 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in

APEDA partners with GB Pant University to boost high-value agri exports

For strengthening the agricultural innovative products, GBPUAT horticultural, and other plants for
products value chain through would focus primarily on boosting nutraceutical plant extract, oil,
building synergy with various exports of products such as basmati powder from Uttarakhand. The
institutions of repute, the rice, millets, medicinal, aromatic, MoU also aims at establishment
Agricultural and Processed Food of Basmati-Rice and Millets
Products Development Authority Export Development Centre for
(APEDA) has signed a Memorandum providing support and necessary
of Understanding (MoU) with the GB infrastructure for facilitating
Pant University of Agriculture and production and setting-up a value
Technology (GBPUAT), Pantnagar, chain for agri-export. APEDA
Uttarakhand. APEDA and GBPUAT and GBPUAT would take up joint
would collaborate for diversifying projects for the development and
the export basket, destinations and export of agricultural and processed
for boosting high value agricultural food products which includes fruit,
exports and establishing Brand vegetable clusters development,
India globally. Along with other facilitation cum monitoring cell in
horticultural, livestock and new Uttarakhand.

APEDA inks MoU Ministry of Ayush opens
Incubation Centre at AIIA
with CCRI for
AIIA ICAINE – All India Institute of Ayurveda - Incubation Centre for
boosting exports Innovation and Entrepreneurship – the first of its kind incubation
centre under the Ministry of Ayush to promote the startups
of citrus products has been launched by Union Minister of Food and Processing
Industries Pashupati Paras. Present at the occasion, Union Ayush
For boosting exports of citrus and its Minister Sarbananda Sonowal released the Research & Information
value added products, the Agricultural system (RIS) report titled ‘AYUSH Sector in India: Prospects
and Processed Food Products Export and Challenges’. Buoyed by the growing global and domestic
Development Authority (APEDA) has demand and enabled
signed a Memorandum of Understanding by a strong support to
(MoU) with ICAR-Central Citrus Research regulatory, research and
Institute (ICAR-CCRI), Nagpur. The MoU development, and back-
envisages promoting export by focussing end infrastructure by the
on creation of product specific clusters Ministry, the market size
along with development of technologies of AYUSH has grown by
by APEDA and ICAR-CCRI with a focus 17 per cent in 2014-20 to
on efficient and precision farming. The reach $18.1 billion. AIIA is
MoU also aims at pursuing collaborative working in preparation of a Diabetes Protocol where the experts
activities that enhance technology from all over the country have contributed to prevention and
transfer and technical expertise of the management of diabetes in the public health initiative. The startup
university and strengthening existing initiative is intended to help Ayush-entrepreneurs in translating
laboratory facilities for testing as per innovations into products and services that are commercially
requirement of importing countries and viable. This food startup initiative under the leadership of Rajesh
for obtaining NABL accreditation and Kotecha, Secretary, Ministry of Ayush, Prof. Tanuja Manoj Nesari,
APEDA recognition. APEDA and ICAR-CCRI Director, AIIA and the whole team of AIIA will have close linkages
would also develop Standard Operating of the Ayush Ministry with other ministries of Government of
Procedure of citrus fruits for exports India such as Ministry of Commerce, Ministry of Food Processing
which would include pre and post-harvest Industries.
management, residue control, post-
harvest interval, shelf life development etc.

NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | December 2021 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in FINANCE NEWS 11

Dairy.com enters India with
acquisition of startup Mr. Milkman

technologies, development

resources, and industry expertise to

enable and innovate last-mile dairy

supply chain solutions for markets

in India and abroad. Dairy.com and

Mr. Milkman are positioned to thrive Hatsun Agro

in India as their solutions are ideally invests

suited to successfully supporting Rs 450 Cr

the country's exponential rise of across new

e-commerce and its increasing manufacturing

consumer demand for convenience, facilities

American firm Dairy.com has made value, food safety, ease of Chennai-based Hatsun Agro
its first investment in India with the Product (HAP) is investing
acquisition of Gurugram-based Mr. payment, and product variety about Rs 450 crore in business
Milkman. The company has acquired across new manufacturing
a 100 per cent stake in Mr. Milkman from the industry. Already used facilities to expand capacities
to strengthen its integrated supply in Ice Cream, Milk, Curd, Milk
chain solution offerings for dairies by over 60+ Indian dairy brands, Products and Cattle Feed and
worldwide. The two companies will also in distribution, sales and
use their combined agribusiness Mr. Milkman enables dairy food marketing before the end of FY
2022. The company has recently
product companies to efficiently inaugurated 'HAP Daily' outlets
in Indore, Madhya Pradesh and
manage multiple aspects of dairy Kharagpur, West Bengal. With
the launch of these stores HAP
distribution, supply chain, customer officially marks its presence in
these states. In addition to the
subscriptions and delivery requests. entire range of Arun Icecreams,
these outlets will also retail
CG Foods buys Gallina other products from Hatsun
Blanca Russia & CIS such as Ghee, Skimmed Milk
business from GBfoods Powder and Dairy Whitener.
In addition, Arun Icecreams
A binding agreement has been reached between CG Foods and GBfoods. has launched an all new ice
GBfoods’ business in Russia/CIS (Commonwealth of Independent States), cream bar variant – Neapolitan
under Gallina Blanca brand, is expected to change its ownership from Bar, made of three distinct
GBfoods to CG Foods, owned by CG Corp Global. GBfoods is an international flavours Vanilla, Strawberry and
group of culinary products with presence in 8 popular countries in Western Chocolate all layered together
Europe, as well as Russia and CIS, Baltics in one bar. Sales registered for
and approximately 30 countries in Africa. HAP in Q2 FY22 was Rs 1635.41
Its Russian operation holds a strong market crore as against Rs 1326.99
position with 86 per cent brand awareness for crore in Q2 FY 21, recording a
its products. With this acquisition, CG foods growth of 23.24 per cent.
will grow its foothold in Europe & CIS regions
as well as diversify into culinary products
and pastas. CG Foods will also leverage the
existing distribution strength of GBfoods in
Russia & CIS to grow its globally renowned
noodle brand WAI WAI. CG Foods is the food division of CG Corp Global. CG
Foods Central Asia has its presence in Kazakhstan where it is manufacturing
noodles. With this new acquisition in Russia and CIS, CG Foods strongly
foresees that it will grow its presence and will play a key role in its future
growth plans. Currently CG Foods is producing noodles in Nepal, India,
Serbia, Bangladesh, Kazakhstan and a plant in Egypt is under development.

12 CSOTAMRPTAUNPSY NEWS NUFFONOUDFFSOSOPDESCTSRPUECMTRU|M De|cemAbperirl 2021 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in

Greenest Licious becomes
Foods, Burgrill India's first D2C Unicorn
introduce India’s
first plant-based Bengaluru-based Licious has shifted its paradigm yet again by emerging
chicken burger as India’s first D2C Unicorn. The tech powered, D2C fresh animal protein
brand in the country, achieved a billion dollars valuation post receipt of
Burgrill India, renowned for serving funding worth $52 million led by
gourmet grilled burgers and other IIFL AMC’s Late Stage Tech Fund.
healthier alternatives, introduces The achievement of Licious Unicorn
The Green Meat Pounder in status is expected to not only further
association with New Delhi-based the journey of the brand but unlock
startup Greenest Foods. With this the next level of opportunities for
launch, Burgrill India, becomes the animal protein sector through
the first homegrown QSR Chain an inflow of investment, talent and
to introduce plant-based meat the emergence of more startups
burgers for their patrons in India. that will help raise the bar in all
The offering is set to revolutionise aspects. The company also recently
the consumption pattern of the announced their pledge to comply
non-vegetarian fast food industry with the lofty global ESG standards,
in India. The Green Meat Pounder setting new benchmarks for
co-created by Burgrill India and sustainability & governance. Spread
Greenest Foods will be at par across 14 Indian cities, the company has experienced an unprecedented
with animal-based meat on the growth of over 500 per cent that the company saw during the last
nutritional level while being better year followed by the continuing momentum of the same. Licious has
for the environment. The plant- successfully delivered to more than 2 million unique customers till date.
based patty ingredients consist
of isolated soy protein, chickpea GO DESi partners with TraceX
protein and a blend of plant-based to enhance product traceability
fibers, and much more to replicate
the aroma and taste of chicken. Zeroing down on its commitment to final packaging) in a creative
The Green Meat Patty (plant-based to providing an immense range story format just by scanning
chicken patty) that goes in the of traditional Indian candies, the QR code on the product.
pounder is manufactured in a state- Bengaluru-based startup GO DESi products are available
of-the-art FSSAI (Food Safety and GO DESi, has announced its across India through its company
Standards Authority of India) and US association with TraceX to build websites, online marketplaces,
FDA registered manufacturing unit. a traceability feature for its and 7000 physical retail stores in
products starting from Desi Popz- Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and
Tangy Imli. Commencing from Telangana. GO DESi envisions
Imli popz, the feature will soon becoming India’s most loved food
provide robust traceability to all brand, looking at a yearly
of GO DESi’s product lines. This revenue generation of Rs
exquisite transparency allows 100 crore by 2022.
consumers to easily trace the
origin tree where the tamarind
was harvested, cleaned, and
processed. Portrayed in a creative
carousel, this product information
feature gives the entire
synopsis of the journey of
the product (from tree

NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | December 2021 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in STARTUPS NEWS 13

OZiva forays into kids’ nutrition Storia Food
with ‘ayurvedic’ gummies & Beverages
secures $6M
OZiva, based in Mumbai, has announced its entry into the kids’ nutrition in series A
segment with the launch of OZiva Kids that offers a range of superfoods, round
fortified with essential nutrients and blended with powerful Ayurvedic herbs,
to cater to the varied needs of growing children like growth (muscle and Mumbai-based startup Storia
bones) brain health, eye health and immunity. Taste is another factor that has Foods & Beverages has raised
been kept in mind while developing these $6 million in series A round
products. OZiva Kids range includes OZiva from Sixth Sense Ventures
Kids Superfood Brain Multi which is a clean (SSIO-III). The capital received
blend of powerful superfoods with Ayurvedic will be utilised to expand
Herbs specially created to support enhanced the business, release new
brain health in children. OZiva Kids Superfood products, and build a powerful
Immunity Multi is a clean blend of powerful distribution network across the
superfoods with Ayurvedic Herbs specially country. Storia’s core focus is
created to support enhanced immunity in a range of healthy beverages
children; and OZiva Kids Superfood Vision which comprise India's highest
Multi is a clean blend of powerful superfoods fruit content shakes, 100 per
with Ayurvedic Herbs specially created to cent no added sugar juices and
support healthy eyes & vision in children. Each 100 per cent natural tender
pack is available at Rs 499 with 30 gummies. coconut water. Storia is set
Soon to be launched, OZiva Kids Superfood to be the new-age, on the go
Growth Protein Drink Mix is a special formulation food and beverage brand of
of 30+ multivitamins, minerals and Ayurvedic Herbs aimed at supporting choice for the next generation
growth and energy in children. of health conscious consumers.
As consumer habits transition
'Yu' raises $1M to expand to those that promote a
distribution network healthy lifestyle, Storia is well
positioned to harness these
Ikayu Foodlabs, with brand name while enjoying a non-refrigerated tailwinds and scale rapidly.
Yu, has secured $1 million in its shelf life of 12 months. All products Built by a strong professional
pre-Series A round. The round are prepared and packaged at leadership team with extensive
saw participation from Manish Yu's fully integrated 12,000 sq ft experience in large MNCs and
Choksi and Varun Vakil, part of advanced, state-of-art, commercial domestic brands, Storia is
the Asian Paints promoter group, scale food-lab in Gurugram. The present across 33 cities in India
Lalvani family, UK-based food and startup will use the funds to across 50,000+ retail outlets,
hospitality group; Nikhil Srivastava, increase its production capacity to major modern retail stores,
Head of India at PAG private equity; over 5 lakh meal bowls per month e-commerce platforms and
Vishal Sampat, Founder, Convonix, while expanding distribution their online channel too. They
among others. Founded in 2020, network to key markets across have already expanded into
the startup has crafted a range of India. Yu has introduced 6 SKUs the USA and South Africa and
Instant Meal Bowls that contain across 2 unique product categories look to expand their global
zero preservatives, additives, to begin with: Wholesome Pasta footprints.
artificial flavourings or colours. Bowls and Wholegrain Oat Bowls.
Developed using highly advanced The product portfolio will soon
lyophilisation technology, chef- see multiple additions with the
curated recipes and 100 per cent introduction of Dessert Bowls, Veg
natural ingredients, Yu's meal bowls / Non-Veg Asian Noodle Bowls and
retain their original taste and aroma Superfood Breakfast Bowls.

14 STARTUPS NEWS NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | December 2021 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in

Nutreco invests Rebel Foods
turns Unicorn
in dairy-tech with $175M funding

startup Stellapps Mumbai-based cloud kitchen startup Rebel Foods has
raised $175 million in a Series F round led by Qatar
Nutreco, a global animal nutrition and Investment Authority (QIA), sovereign wealth fund of the
aquaculture company based in the Netherlands, State of Qatar with participation from existing investors
has announced its investment in Bengaluru- Coatue and Evolvence. This round catapults the company
based dairy-tech startup Stellapps. Led by to a unicorn status with a valuation of $1.4 billion. Rebel
Nutreco, Stellapps has completed the first close Foods operates the largest number of internet restaurants
towards its pre-series C round from various worldwide and on this network, it has built 45+ brands
investors. The total size of the round will be (own + partners) across 10 countries - India, Indonesia,
$18 million. This fundraising round also saw United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, Singapore,
participation from existing investors including Malaysia, Thailand,
Qualcomm Ventures, Celesta Capital, and ABB Hong Kong, Philippines
Technology Ventures. Stellapps plans to deploy and Bangladesh,
the funds to rapidly scale-up its traceability and operates 4000+
network and extend its digital footprint across internet restaurants. The
India. India is the world’s largest dairy market; startup has disrupted a
approximately 570 million litres of milk is century-old industry of
produced daily, and recent research indicates traditional restaurant
that the country's dairy market is set to increase business, by building a
by 6 per cent between 2021 and 2026. With two full-stack technology-
thirds of dairy farmers being smallholder dairy enabled platform - Rebel
farmers (with between two and five cows), India’s Operating System,
dairy market has a large sustainability footprint thereby catering to
and there is significant room for improvement. multiple food missions. With the influx of fresh funding,
Rebel Foods will be continuing to focus on growing
their international footprint, technology and brand
acquisitions. This latest fundraising will allow Rebel to
deliver on its vision of bringing the highest quality brands
across food missions to customers globally.

MyFitness offers effervescent tablets & apple cider vinegar

MyFitness, a startup based in categories ranging from sleep, flavours, including strawberry,
Dadra and Nagar Haveli has immunity, detox, lean, glow, shine, blueberry, green apple, raw mango
launched Suprfit brand. This new active, super, slim, and digest. and cranberry, to name a few.
venture has introduced
two health food products Effervescent tablets are available Owned by Tanvi Fitness
- effervescent tablets and in 10 different Private Limited, Suprfit is
apple cider vinegar. In less further developing other
than a week of soft launch, new products. The brand will
the newly launched brand soon be coming up with rice
has witnessed a very good cakes, gummies etc. amongst
traction from the market. others. Complementing the
Catering to a wider audience, offerings by MyFitness, the
Suprfit’s brand offers first- newly launched brand plans
of-its-kind tablets under to expand its footprint in the
health food industry.

NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | December 2021 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in COMPANY NEWS 15

Britannia collaborates Marico
with Accenture for launches
digital transformation immune-
booster
Accenture has helped Britannia to changing market trends. For Saffola
Industries to accelerate Britannia’s large network of Chyawanprash
innovation, capture value and suppliers, this project will help
improve the customer and streamline procurement and With an aim to further
supplier experience, through a supply chain management, using strengthen its presence in
holistic digital transformation SAP Ariba solutions to expedite the immunity-boosting and
programme. As Britannia’s partner digital onboarding, contract ayurvedic segment, Mumbai-
on its digital journey, Accenture management and procurement based Marico has extended its
designed, developed and processes. By digitising more healthy foods portfolio with the
deployed a technology system than 80 manufacturing units launch of Saffola Chyawanprash
based on SAP S/4HANA. The new and 50 warehouses, Britannia under Immuniveda banner, its
system has increased the visibility can significantly reduce IT contemporary Ayurvedic range.
and accessibility of data across operational costs and unlock Adding to the success of brand
the organisation and enabled capital for innovation and growth Saffola in immunity boosting
deeper use of automation and initiatives. The system will space, this new
analytics to guide business improve inventory optimisation, offering by
decisions. The enterprise-wide product availability and workforce Marico provides
programme is focused on productivity for Britannia by the power of
modernising Britannia’s business building more effective business Ayurveda to
model by digitising essential processes across manufacturing, its consumers
services and processes, allowing finance, sales and supply chain with the use
the company to better respond management. of modern
technology,
South Korean confectionary under the
Orion enters D2C space in India renowned
expertise that
South Korean confectionery month during the festive season. the Saffola
major Orion has entered into India is Orion's 10th overseas aegis is trusted for. Saffola
Direct-to-Consumer (D2C) space production base, while the Chyawanprash incorporates
in India, with an aim to further company also has manufacturing the goodness of over 50
strengthen its presence in the units in Korea, Vietnam, Russia, ingredients such as Amla, Giloy,
country. Through its online store, and other locations. The company Ashwagandha, Honey, Shatavari,
the company aims to cater to has recently announced an Bala, Pippali, Vidarikand etc.
the rising demand for Orion investment of Rs 200 crore in India This carefully considered
products across India, including for setting up a 17,385-square- combination not only helps
cities it is yet to foray into. The meter manufacturing facility for boost immunity, energy and
company, which has had success the production of Original ‘Choco- stamina but also helps in
with e-commerce that now Pie’ locally and the soon to be improving respiratory health
contributes 25 per cent to annual introduced product portfolio in so that one is less susceptible
sales, expects the order volume to Bhiwadi, Rajasthan as part of its to seasonal cough, cold and
grow by 100 per cent month-on- growth drive. sore throat. Going forward, the
company aims to continue to
bring quality offerings in the
healthy foods category to its
consumers across geographies.

16 COMPANY NEWS NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | December 2021 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in

Parag Milk Mother Dairy to establish new
Foods launches consumer touch-points in Delhi
GO Milkshake in
multiple flavours Mother Dairy, Delhi’s own milk shops and outlets on such a wide
and milk products major and
Mumbai-based Parag Milk Foods a wholly owned subsidiary of scale. The company is working
has announced the expansion of National Dairy Development
their product portfolio with the Board (NDDB), has embarked towards increasing this count to
launch of a range of milkshakes - GO upon a journey to strengthen its
Milkshake. Made from 100 per cent consumer touch-point network over 2500 by FY22- 23, further
cow’s milk, it is available in 180 ml in the NCT of Delhi, mainly led
Tetra Packs in Strawberry, Vanilla, by kiosks and franchise shops. strengthening its presence across
Chocolate and Coffee flavours. It Its consumer channel comprises
will have a long shelf life at ambient different forms of stores such as the length and breadth of the
temperature. The milkshake is priced its own milk booths, franchise
at Rs 30 and is available across all shops, kiosks, etc. With a collective capital region and at the same
the distribution channels. According count of around 1800 such shops,
to a new report by EMR titled, ‘India Mother Dairy is the single largest time, bringing quality products a
Flavoured Milk Market Report and retailer of milk and milk products
Forecast 2021-2026’, the market is in the NCT of Delhi, having its own step closer to the city dwellers. As
expected to witness healthy growth
in the forecast period, growing at part of the same strategy, Mother
a CAGR of 24 per cent between
2021 and 2026. This unlocks a huge Dairy opened 15 kiosks in the NCT
potential for the company to tap into
the growing market. Maharashtra of Delhi in a single day. Of the 15
with a consumption share of 18.6
per cent represented the biggest kiosks, 9 have been established
market in India in 2017. Maharashtra
was followed by Tamil Nadu (15.5 per in 9 campuses of Delhi Skill and
cent), Uttar Pradesh (12.4 per cent),
Delhi (8.9 per cent) and Gujarat (7.5 Entrepreneurship University
per cent). The drink has optimum
calorie content that appeals to (DSEU) and 6 in Delhi Cantonment
children and adults alike. With this
launch, the company is aiming to area.
capture 10-15 per cent market share.
SLCM launches 'Made in
India' QC app for food grains

Sohan Lal Commodity Management Pvt Ltd (SLCM), based in Delhi, has
launched the beta version of a quality check (QC) mobile application
for agricultural commodities. Initially introduced for wheat, which is a
staple food grain in most parts of
India, the app’s capabilities will be
progressively extended to include
other important food grains and
pulses like chana (chickpea), maize,
rice, guar (cluster bean), moong
and tur (pigeon pea) over time.
A global first for food grains, the
“AgriReach Mobile Quality Check
App” allows the user to get an on the
spot assessment of the commodity’s
sample within minutes, without
having to use equipment like sieve,
weighing scale, etc., or to take it to a
lab for testing. This first-of-its-kind solution is entirely a result of 4 years
of intensive research by the company’s in-house team of experts. The
test results are agnostic of the total sample weight as they are assessed
based on its image.

NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | December 2021 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in COMPANY NEWS 17

Bagrry’s brings new range of superfood seeds

New Delhi-based Bagrry's India has and omega-3 fatty acids, whereas super grain Quinoa are the other
added six new nutrition packed calcium and antioxidants-rich two seeds in the Organics range.
seeds to its selects and organics Chia seeds and the protein-rich Pumpkin seeds are loaded with
range that now includes
protein packed Flax seeds good fats, proteins and
along with Quinoa & Chia micronutrients. They are 100
seeds. The new selects per cent natural and gluten
range comprises Pumpkin, free. The Sunflower seeds
Sunflower and Watermelon are rich in fibre and protein
seeds all available in stand- and offer antibacterial
up pouch packs. The 100 and antifungal benefits.
per cent organic, vegan The low-calorie, vegan
and gluten-free Flax seeds Watermelon seeds are a
are rich in protein, fibre natural immunity booster
and enhance bone density.

Healthways Mukunda Foods unveils
fully automated machine
launches paneer for Chinese, Indian cuisines

varieties in 3 forms Bengaluru-based Mukunda Foods has been redefining the
culinary business by manufacturing automated machines
Healthways Milk & Food Products has expanded for the preparation of global cuisine with minimum human
its product portfolio in Delhi and Delhi NCR intervention in commercial kitchens. After witnessing the
with the launch of its three varieties of paneer – success of the robotic solutions in commercial kitchens
Premium, Protein Rich and Malai Rich. The paneer with dosamatic (A fully automatic dosa-making machine),
is completely untouched by human hands right Rico (the
from the processing to packaging and is available automatic Rice,
in 200 gms pack. The best-in-class production Noodle & Pasta
practices and international standard ‘MULTIVAC' Maker) and
packaging comes with a three-level high barrier Eco-Fryer (for
thermoforming film that keeps the product’s frying French
freshness and nutrients intact and gives a shelf Fries, Momos,
life of 15 days. Healthways Paneer will be available Samosas, Burger
to the customers through their network of over Patties, etc. in
100 bikers who would also be selling rabri, dahi, less oil), the
flavoured milk and desi ghee apart from paneer. It company has
will also be available in over 15000+ retail outlets now launched
catered through general trade. Wokie. It is a
fully automated
machine for cooking Chinese and Indian food along with
Thai cuisine gravies. This new-age cooking station made
using advanced technology such as Artificial Intelligence,
Internet of Things (IoT), Image Analytics, Assistive Cooking
Technology, Centralised Cloud Computing and High Steam
Microwave, has streamlined the cooking process. It has
introduced automated Stirring & Tossing, Assisted Cooking,
and Automated Heat Control properties, making it a perfect
tool to cook delicious wok-based dishes like noodles,
pastas, fried rice, and a variety of curries and starters.

18 WORLD NEWS NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | December 2021 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in

Global study US FDA recommends limiting
guides policy- sodium in processed foods
makers in choosing
optimal nutrition- The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is issuing a final
labelling schemes guidance, "Voluntary Sodium Reduction Goals: Target Mean and
Upper Bound Concentrations for Sodium in Commercially Processed,
A recent network meta-analysis Packaged, and Prepared Foods," which provides voluntary short-
by researchers across UK, Canada, term sodium reduction targets for food manufacturers, chain
Australia, New Zealand and the US have restaurants and food service operators for 163 categories of
summarised the currently available processed, packaged and prepared foods. The guidance is another
118 peer-reviewed studies to update step the agency is taking to advance the Administration's whole-of-
knowledge of the most mainstream government approach to nutrition and health and improve future
interpretive front-of-package nutrition health outcomes. Research shows that people consume 50 per
labelling (FOPL) schemes. They found cent more sodium than recommended. This includes our youngest
that the traffic light labelling system and most vulnerable populations, with more than 95 per cent of
(TLS), Nutri-Score (NS), nutrient warning children aged 2 to 13 years old exceeding recommended limits of
(NW), and health warning (HW) were all sodium for their age groups. Although many consumers may want
able to direct consumers towards more to reduce their sodium intake, about 70 per cent of the sodium
healthful purchasing behaviour. It was we eat comes from packaged, processed and restaurant foods,
also found that colour-coded labels (TLS making it challenging to limit sodium. Changes across the overall
and NS) performed better in promoting food supply will make it easier to access lower-sodium options and
the purchase of more healthful products, reduce intake even in the absence of behavior change. The targets
while warning labels (NW and HW) in the final guidance seek to decrease average sodium intake from
had the advantage in discouraging approximately 3,400 milligrams (mg) to 3,000 mg per day, about a 12
unhealthful purchasing behaviour. per cent reduction, over the next 2.5 years.
According to the researchers, the
difference in consumers’ behaviour could Fast foods loaded with
be explained by different underlying 10 toxic chems ‘phthalates
psychological mechanisms for each label. & plasticisers’: Study
Future studies should focus on the impact
of FOPLs on dietary consumption in Chicken nuggets, burritos and other popular items consumers
individuals, and industrial reformulation buy from fast food outlets in the United States contain chemicals
at the population level, especially in that are linked to a long list of serious health problems, according
real-world settings and over a longer time to a first-of-its-kind study published recently. Researchers at
frame. This will provide crucial, robust,
and comprehensive evidence to guide the George Washington
policy making. University and their
colleagues bought fast foods
from popular outlets and
found 10 of 11 potentially
harmful chemicals in the
samples, including phthalates,
a group of chemicals that are
used to make plastics soft
and are known to disrupt the
endocrine system. The research team also found other plasticisers,
chemicals that are emerging as replacements to phthalates. 81
per cent of the food samples studied contained a phthalate called
di-n-butyl phthalate (DnBP) and 70 per cent contained Di-2-
ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP).

NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | December 2021 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in WORLD NEWS 19

GFSI takes proactive Japan invests $4.5M in
Ghana PPP project
steps to attract and
A contribution of $4.5 million has been made by the
retain talent pool Government of Japan, for a public-private partnership (PPP)
project which aims to make quality nutrition and health
The Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI), a services available to 250,000 people in Ghana. In collaboration
Coalition of Action of The Consumer Goods with the Ministry of Health and the Ghana Health Service,
Forum, has launched the first-ever set of World Food Programme (WFP) will partner with three private
Benchmarking Requirements for food safety sector Japanese firms, The Ajinomoto Foundation (TAF)/
auditor Professional Recognition Bodies. KOKO Plus Foundation (KPF), NEC Corporation and Sysmex
By raising the profile of the profession of Corporation, to produce nutritious foods and micronutrient
auditing, and focusing entry requirements supplements and carry out
on competence, the aim is to attract and nutrition education for the
retain talents into this vital profession. Over most vulnerable women,
the years, the industry has faced mounting children and adolescent girls
difficulties in recruiting and retaining auditors, in rural food insecure areas of
with more people leaving the profession than the country. In one district in
new recruits joining it. This is putting a strain the Northern region, 7, 500
on the Certification Bodies’ ability to cater to vulnerable pregnant women
the increasing demand in food safety audits, and nursing mothers, children
and presents a severe threat to the whole and adolescent girls, will
food safety ecosystem. The situation has receive nutrition education
worsened due to increasingly complex and and counselling, as well as
duplicated requirements applying to new and nutritious foods. The women
existing auditors, including the increasing GFSI will also be enrolled in activities
Benchmarking Requirements for Certification that will enable them to earn
Programme Owners on auditors. To combat more money and sustain their ability to continue buying
this, GFSI has now developed a new recognition locally produced nutritious foods when the project ends.
programme for Professional Recognition Bodies Additionally, 250,000 people in 90 districts will continuously
in the sector, setting them up as responsible be educated and counselled on good nutrition practices
for validating common competencies in a under a widely rolled out social and behaviour change
food safety auditor for all GFSI-recognised communication component.
Certification Programme Owners.

World food import bill highest ever in 2021

The Global food trade has who spend large shares of
accelerated and is poised to hit their incomes on these basic
an all-time record in both volume necessities, according to the FAO.
and value terms, according to a The FAO expects the global food
new report released by the Food import bill to reach an all-time
and Agriculture Organisation high in 2021 and surpass $1.75
of the United Nations (FAO). trillion, marking a 14 per cent
While global food trade has increase from the previous year
shown remarkable resilience and 12 per cent higher than
to disruptions throughout earlier forecast in June 2021.
the COVID-19 pandemic, The increase is driven by higher
rapidly rising prices of food price levels of internationally
commodities and energy pose traded food commodities and
significant challenges for poorer a threefold increase in freight
countries and consumers, costs.

20 COVER STORY NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | December 2021 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in

WFH SPARKS

‘FUNCTIONAL

SNACKING’
TREND

Health is high on the agenda for Indian consumers. As a part of post-COVID-19 food and drink
resolutions, 48 per cent of consumers say they would follow a diet that reduces the risk of lifestyle
diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, etc. Consumers are also prioritising natural ingredients,
high protein and high fibre content in food. The growing shift towards healthy eating has, in turn,
encouraged brands to innovate and reformulate with healthier snacks, without compromising on
taste, throughout 2021.

NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | December 2021 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in COVER STORY 21

Consumers, globally, are now treating their bodies Snack bar is another space that has picked up pace
like an ecosystem and seeking holistic solutions that in 2021 with new varieties and alternatives. For example,
complement their personal health and evolving Mumbai-based Sun Pharmaceuticals stepped into this
needs. Health is, now, a major priority for most Indians, segment with nutrition bar- Revital NXT consisting of
evident from 94 per cent of respondents in India who were natural ginseng, 16 vitamins, minerals and triple blend
impelled by the pandemic to adopt a healthy lifestyle. This protein. Mondelez India also announced its foray into the
is especially true for consumers in the older age groups exciting snack bar category with the launch of new Cadbury
because they are the most vulnerable to the virus. With Fuse Fit with healthy ingredients like cranberry, peanuts and
a focus on health and 50 per cent of consumers eating almonds.
more healthily - focusing more on nutrition, reducing salt/
sugar/fat intake, etc- functionality in food and drink is now Flood of healthy drinks
becoming the norm for most consumers. On the beverage front, nourishing options such as

Functional snack foods packaged coconut water by Del Monte, plant-based
With the‘work-from-home’concept prevailing almond drink by Hershey, immunity-boosting teas by
Tata Consumers, and Southern Health Foods’ iron fortified
throughout 2021, snacking has become more prevalent women’s health drink, have been grabbing the consumers’
in every household. According to Mintel, larger pack attention lately.
sizes of snacks have seen increased demand for in-home
consumption, especially in metro cities this year. However, as The year 2021 also witnessed participation from many
consumers grow conscious of their snacking habits, smaller startups that brought in a whole new bunch of ideas and
packs can help consumers reduce the guilt of snacking. experiments on the table. The long list ranges from India’s
first probiotic chocolate (Lil’ Goodness) to first Ayurvedic
So, to encourage higher usage and consumption of herbs-based chocolate (Awsum); from spiced jaggery
functional food and drinks, industry players, particularly the (Elixir Ingredients) to superfoods made up of spirulina
startups, are expanding into using traditional ingredients (Prolgae); from high-protein almond cheese bars (Axia
that combine both flavour and function in the form of Foods) to vegan protein bars (O’ Greens); from plant-based
reformulated snacks. 2021 saw the entry of many innovative chicken nuggets (Blue Tribes) to peanut curd (Goodmylk);
snack-based products in the market, in the form of both and from spiced latte (Vieroots) to floral tea (Redplum). It
foods and beverages (F&B). For instance, FMCG major has indeed been heartening to see that marketplaces this
Britannia recently launched potato-based biscuits under year extended huge support to startups to showcase their
its brand 50-50. ITC followed suit by launching a similar products and give them space to brand their products even
variant under the Sunfeast brand. In addition, a new range globally.
of cracker biscuits with multigrain flours, flax seeds and
sesame seeds also entered the market by Ludhiana-based In addition, numerous snacking options have set foot
Bonn Group this year. Then we also saw South Korea-based into the market exclusively for children, by both big and
confectionery firm Orion announcing its expansion plans in small players. For example, Danone has stepped into
India with an investment of Rs 200 crore for increasing the the health drink category for children with the launch
production of its ‘choco-pie’ cookies. of AptaGrow; Fermentis Life Sciences has introduced
an immunity boosting probiotic drink for kids under its
Exploring new opportunities, Gorakhpur-based Crazy nutrition brand BillionCheers; ‘Made to Order' porridge
Snacks has entered into the cake segment with layer cakes range has been launched by Timios; vitamin B12 infused
and cupcakes, while Bengaluru-based Namdhari Group has chocolate snack Kinder creamy is being offered by Ferrero
ventured into the healthy snack realm by launching new India; and fruit yogurt for kids by MilkLane is fortified with
products under the brand name Think Snack, comprising vitamin A and D.
a range of fruit and vegetable chips, brown rice chips,
popcorn, and makhana snacks. With snacks gradually developing into meal
replacements in the new ‘work-from-home’ culture, plenty
Likewise, Future Consumer, the consumer products of opportunities are in store for the F&B industry to not only
arm of Future Group, has forayed into healthy snacking experiment with natural ingredients and flavours but also
with the launch of Terra Chips in India recently. This launch to reduce the growing burden of lifestyle diseases in the
of gluten-free vegetable chips is part of its joint venture country by offering healthy and nourishing indulgences.
with American foods company Hain Celestial that it entered Let’s catch a glimpse of how the industry summarises the
into back in 2017. Further, General Mills India, a part of the developments and challenges it experienced during 2021-
US-based Fortune 500 Company, General Mills, Inc. has ‘the year that went by’.
now announced the launch of its ready to cook (RTC), two
minutes Pillsbury Pancakes portfolio in India. Dr Manbeena Chawla
[email protected]

22 COVER STORY NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | December 2021 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in

INNOVATED & REFORMULATED

Reformulation & Innovation are key to securing a healthier and more sustainable future for food. Reformulation to
improve nutrient profile, ingredient innovation and diversification of healthy sources took the center-stage in 2021.

‘Innovations are picking ‘Became first to offer frozen
up momentum’ pizzas at a pan India level’
“Focus on market development in “We launched the frozen pizzas in
nutrition is yielding good results. the B2B space, with four variants,

Health Food Drinks volumes grew making us the only Indian brand
double-digit and it continued to gain offering frozen pizzas at a pan India
penetration sequentially. Ice Creams recovered level. We also saw a spike in deliveries, so we started
strongly, driven by effective communications and pushing ‘Super Crispy Fries’. We also introduced
innovations. ‘Kissan Peanut Butter’ and ‘Hellman’s various products in Indian delight’s portfolio, i.e., Pav
Mayonnaise’ innovations are picking up momentum. Bhaji Patty, Sabudana Patty, and Soya Patty. This year
In Q2 2021, ‘Horlicks’ expanded its high sciences range we started manufacturing potato flakes which are
with the launch of ‘Horlicks Diabetes Plus’.” mainly used in making namkeen like aloo bhujia and
- Sanjiv Mehta, making fabricated chips like Pringles. We closed FY20-
Chairman and Managing Director, 21 at Rs 330 crore, 20 per cent up from Rs 277 crore as
Hindustan Unilever, Mumbai in the previous year.”
- Kamlesh Karamchandani,
‘Launched 50-50 Potazos in NE’ Director – Sales & Marketing, HyFun Foods, Ahmedabad
“We relaunched Good-day Choco-
chips with a surprise campaign and ‘Expanded product portfolio
launched 50-50 Potazos in the North with range of milkshakes’
“We have launched our GO
East. Our brands were back on air and Milkshake range that is made from
our full range of products in the market
as the impact on the supply chain wasn’t as severe 100 per cent cow’s milk. The drink has
as the first wave of the pandemic. We commenced optimum calorie content that appeals
work on a Greenfield manufacturing facility in to children & adults alike. With this launch, we are
Barabanki district, Uttar Pradesh. The state is a large aiming to capture 10-15 per cent market share. With
consumption market for us and this facility will help our unmatched quality of milk, we are confident of
us meet the growing demand for bakery products in providing a unique taste experience to milkshake
Uttar Pradesh, and will also create fairly large-scale drinkers.”
employment opportunities. - Devendra Shah,
- Varun Berry, Chairman, Parag Milk Foods, Mumbai
Managing Director, Britannia, Bengaluru
‘Developed Ayurveda chocolates’
‘Forayed into savoury snack segment’ We have launched India’s first
“With a rich legacy in making iconic functional chocolate brand using
sweets in Maharashtra, we have potent ayurvedic herbs. We are
now forayed into the savoury snack
currently selling 4 variants that
segment with the launch of brand are targeted to help urban working
Bingebar comprising Bhel Bar, Lemon millennials and GenZ people deal with modern-day
Bhel Bar and Lite Chivda Bar. We have also launched lifestyle disorders like sleep deprivation, day time
a digital campaign that aims at creating awareness fatigue and lethargy, stress and anxiety. We also have
about the popular Indian namkeens turned into a made a chocolate that helps strengthen and build the
single-serve, convenient to eat product.” body's Immunity.”
- Indraneel Chitale, - Pranav Sharma,
Managing Partner, Chitale Group, Pune Co-Founder, Awsum, New Delhi

NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | December 2021 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in COVER STORY 23

‘Launched Gamma oryzanol- ‘Entered health drink
based vegetarian capsules’ category for children’
“We have launched Gamma “At Danone, our goal is to innovate
oryzanol, a natural antioxidant, and offer products and services

in India in the form of vegetarian that meet the nutritional needs and
capsules. Ricela Gamma-oryzanol expectations of consumers at every
is a product of AP Organics which is a part of the stage of life. We have entered into the health drink
Ricela Group and delivers an effective dosage of category for children with the launch of AptaGrow.
300 mg of gamma oryzanol in just two capsules With this launch, we endeavour to support healthy
daily. AP Organics has commercialised the eating and drinking habits from an early age since
technology developed by CSIR-Indian Institute these are the foundation years that contribute to
of Chemical Technology, Hyderabad, to produce health later in life. AptaGrow is scientifically designed
Gamma-oryzanol from rice bran oil. Gamma to meet the nutritional needs of growing children
oryzanol is one of its kind and first such product and address concerns mothers have regarding the
in India.” nutrition intake of their children.”
- Dr A R Sharma, - Himanshu Bakshi,
Founder and Chairman, Ricela Group, Dhuri Managing Director, Danone India, Mumbai

‘Expanded portfolio of ‘Launched new
value-added products’ format of supplements’
“The company has recorded “We have launched Oral
strong recovery post COVID-19 Disintegrating Strip (ODS), which

wave-2, by continuing to is an innovative new category or
deliver strong top-line growth, format of supplements that gives the
expanding its value-added product portfolio convenience of dosing without the intake of water to
and strengthening its balance sheet. We have swallow it. The products are inspired by nature and
expanded the portfolio of Value Added Products researched by science and technology, the ODS Strips
(VAP) with the launch of Heritage Kesar Shrikhand are an honest answer to deficiencies in an easy to
and Heritage Amrakhand in Mumbai and carry, easy to consume, fast-absorbing ODS format. It
Hyderabad markets. We have also expanded is the next best alternative and tasty solution to pills or
presence in paneer category with the launch of tablets.”
Heritage Malai Paneer Fresh in Mumbai.” - Nihaal Mariwala,
- Brahmani Nara, Founder and Chief Executive Officer,
Executive Director, Heritage Foods, Hyderabad Setu India, Mumbai

‘Developed organic products ‘Introduced donkey milk powder’
for new & expecting mothers’ “We have further strengthened
“We have forayed into maternity our unique line of offerings that
care FMCG products with the includes raw camel milk powder,

launch of ‘Mom-trients’, a range frozen camel milk, camel milk
of 100 per cent natural and organic chocolates, and camel milk-based
packaged products for new and expecting skincare products, goat milk powder, and frozen goat
mothers. Under ‘Mom-trients’, we are offering a milk, alongside others, by launching Donkey Milk
range of high nutrition and sugar free energy bars Powder- Lac Jennius. Donkey Milk has been identified
and energy drinks that provide the required pre as a beneficial ingredient for skincare. It possesses
and post pregnancy nutrition for both mother and powerful anti-ageing and healing properties that help
the baby.” in reducing wrinkling and the presence of vitamin D
- Aswani Chaitanya, keeps the skin healthy, hydrated, and soft.”
Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder, - Hitesh Rathi,
Timios, Bengaluru Founder, Aadvik Foods, New Delhi

24 COVER STORY NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | December 2021 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in

DIVERSIFIED THE PLANT-RANGE!

A large vegetarian population and greater demand for healthy foods are fueling the rapid expansion of plant-
based substitutes in India. While the concept of plant-based food is new to the country, consumers have been
highly receptive towards this product category in 2021 with many new entrants in the market.

‘Developed soyaplant ‘Made plant-based sausages’
protein fortified drink’ “Our objective at BVeg Foods is to
“The Hershey Company globally has revolutionise the plant-based meat
a legacy of driving positive change category. We have launched plant-

through initiatives that benefit based sausages at the 24Seven stores
society. Keeping up with the tradition, and are sincerely looking forward to the
we have developed Sofit Plus, a soya plant protein consumer feedback for them.”
fortified drink, as a part of our initiative ‘Nourishing - Akanksha Ghai,
Minds' in partnership with Annamrita, Sion Hospital Co-Founder, BVeg Foods, New Delhi
and IIT-Bombay. Designed to help meet the nutritional
needs of underprivileged kids in India, this product is ‘Used grains, sprouted
backed by rigorous research and development.” millets in plant-based milk’
- Herjit Bhalla, “We have successfully developed
Vice President- India and Asia - Pacific, Europe, Middle a novel product, i.e. the world’s
East, Africa (AEMEA), The Hershey Company, Mumbai
first plant-based milk made out of
‘Introduced dairy-free grains and sprouted millets. What we
plant-based lattes’ understand is that to develop a breakthrough plant-
“By introducing dairy-free, plant- based milk, we cannot just keep creating more oat/
based and quick DIY lattes, we almond/soyamilks without addressing the pain points
of consumers. We need to work backwards and look
aim to make a part of a plant-based at the ingredients, their flavour profile, nutritional
diet convenient and accessible for all. information, environmental impact and affordability.
The lattes also come in biodegradable packaging We have identified a flavour profile similar to milk
as sustainability is a core value at Ausum and we which also has a tinge of sweetness like dairy milk
ensure it at every step of the way from sourcing to without adding sugar or sweeteners.”
packaging. Our new line of instant, plant-based, - Aman Khandelwal, Co-Founder, Alt foods, Noida
dairy-free super lattes are made with 100 per cent
natural ingredients and containing Reishi mushroom ‘India got its first
and Ashwagandha.” plant-based chicken burger’
- Mayura Rao, “In association with Burgrill India,
CEO and Founder, Ausum, Bengaluru renowned for serving gourmet

‘Launched multiple grilled burgers and other healthier
plant-based meat products’ alternatives, we have introduced The
“We have launched plant-based Green Meat Pounder. It is India’s first plant-based
chicken sausages and pork chicken burger which vegetarians and non-vegetarians
can enjoy alike. Not only does it perfectly replicate the
sausages that consist of high pea taste, juiciness, and texture of a chicken burger but is
protein, fibre, vitamin B12 and zero also significantly healthier for our planet and its people
cholesterol. We have also launched plant-based in comparison to conventional meat burgers. Besides,
chicken keema and chicken nuggets earlier this year The Green Meat Pounder is priced on par with its
that has generated a loyal customer base among chicken counterpart to help people make the switch
non-vegetarian lovers.” from a meat-heavy to a plant-based diet easier.”
- Sandeep Singh, - Gaurav Sharma,
Co-Founder, Blue Tribe Foods, Mumbai Chief Executive Officer, Greenest Foods, New Delhi

NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | December 2021 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in COVER STORY 25

STRENGTHENED IMMUNITY-PORTFOLIO

Against the backdrop of viral outbreaks, such as COVID-19 and seasonal influenza, today’s consumers are more
aware than ever of the importance of a strong immune system. In fact, supporting long-term immunity became a
top priority for many companies this year.

‘Strong demand fueled by ‘Developed world’s
rising awareness on immunity’ smallest effervescent tablet’
“Performance in 2021 was positive “We have developed orally
despite the many challenges. While dissolving mini effervescent tablets

constant shipping challenges have to prevent, manage & recover from
been faced across the world, there has COVID-19. It has been designed using a
been a strong demand fueled by rising awareness and patent-pending Orally Dissolving (OD-Eff) technology
concerns on health and immunity. Over the last year formulated with the world’s best & purest Setria
we have witnessed increases in both the products sold Glutathione from Japan. It is the world’s smallest
as well as acquired new customers. The situation has effervescent tablet made to deliver glutathione through
increasingly made consumers think about natural and the sublingual or buccal route. Glutathione (GSH),
safe alternatives to improve their health, especially known also as the master antioxidant, has been known
immunity.” for its effective immunity generating properties.”
- Dr Benny Antony, - Dr Anish Desai,
Joint Managing Director, Arjuna Natural, Kochi Director Strategic Medical Affairs,
Adroit Biomed, Mumbai
‘Made immunity-boosting cocoa bars’
“We have developed a unique ‘Introduced hemp-based
blend of clinically-tested immunity boosters’
extracts in the form of guilt- “With BOHECO Life’s products
continuously gaining popularity
free, sugar conscious cocoa
bars meant to boost the immune due to individuals increasingly being
system, energy levels and stamina, as well as educated on all fronts about industrial
supporting the hormones and elevating one’s hemp and cannabis, we have introduced our immunity
mood. The product offers special formulations booster range. These are a great source of omega 3 & 6,
created specifically for both men and women. vitamin C & E, antioxidants, curcuminoids, withanolides,
We have partnered with the Institute of Chemical gingerols, and cordiofolioside A.”
Technology (ICT Mumbai) for extensive research - Yash Kotak,
and product formulation.” Director and Co-Founder, BOHECO Life, Mumbai
- Nikita Naterwalla,
Co-Founder, årelang Naturals, Mumbai ‘Launched immunity booster
drink Mirakle in Mumbai’
‘Enriched our Immuniveda banner’ “Mirakle, a drink infused with 1000
“We have launched the all new mg of vitamin C, was launched in the
Saffola Chyawanprash under our
Immuniveda banner, an enriched market at the beginning of pandemic
in Tamil Nadu. Mirakle is more effective
product that combines the benefits than oral vitamin C capsules and the absorption rate
of Ayurveda and the expertise to our of nutrients in the drink is 98 per cent. Apart from that,
consumers who are seeking immunity boosting it is also a collagen rich drink for healthy joints, skin,
products that fits into their hectic lifestyles, to ensure and hair. In 2021, we launched it in Mumbai which is a
the wellbeing of themselves and their families.” very promising market and we hope to strengthen our
- Sanjay Mishra, footprints across the country as well gradually.”
COO- India Sales & CEO- News Business, - Dr Manickam Mahalingam,
Marico Limited, Mumbai Chairman and Managing Director, ABT, Coimbatore

26 COVER STORY NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | December 2021 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in

INVESTED IN DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION & TECHNOLOGY

The food processing industry in India is a monolithic ecosystem that is opening itself up to digital transformation
and new technologies at various stages. This digital adoption has seen various stages of development within the
industry in the past few months.

‘Invested heavily in ‘Pioneered QR code-based
digital infrastructure’ product traceability’
“We are adopting strategies to “Transparency is the key to trust,
maintain more stocks and support and to cement it, we have associated

distributors. We have also invested with TraceX to pioneer a QR code-
heavily in digital infrastructure to shrink based traceability feature for our
response time & improve the efficiency of our supply products. We have announced this venture for our
chains. Bikano had a turnover of Rs 1,000 crore in product Imli Popz and are looking forward to infusing
FY21, a 20 per cent growth YoY. We saw a decent jump this feature into our other products. This exquisite
in sales in Q1FY21, led primarily by pantry-loading & transparency allows consumers to easily trace the
its ability to continue with supplies to the market. origin tree where the tamarind was harvested,
Although there has been some tapering-off, high cleaned, and processed.”
double-digit growth is possible. E-commerce sales - Vinay Kothari,
have been supporting us well, mostly large packs, and Founder and CEO, Go Desi, Bengaluru
are witnessing a 30-40 per cent growth quarter-on-
quarter.” ‘Extended availability of
- Manish Aggarwal, safe drinking water’
Director, Bikano- Bikanervala Foods, New Delhi “Since inception, we have created
smart water purifiers, leveraging
‘Enhanced automation
of kitchen space’ Internet of Things (IoT) technology
“We have launched Wokie, a fully and a seven-stage filtration process,
automated machine for cooking that gives our customers access to clean drinking
water on tap while being charged on a pay-as-you-
Chinese and Indian food along use model. We have extended our operations to the
with Thai cuisine gravies. We hope to National Capital Region (NCR). We are trying our
revolutionise the commercial kitchen space with our best to make safe drinking water accessible to more
robotic solutions & thus become the country’s largest people.”
kitchen automation brand in the food retail industry.” - Vijender Reddy Muthyala,
- Eshwar K Vikas, Co-founder and CEO, DrinkPrime, Bengaluru
Co-Founder, Mukunda Foods, Bengaluru
‘Developed technologically-
‘Used IoT for food vending machines’ advanced dehumidifiers’
“We have developed a range of “With the help of new-age advanced
smart, IoT & Android based vending technology, we would be able
machines. Our vending technology to serve our business partners
better. We have developed BrySmart
is fully proprietary and owned by Series (BBS) Dehumidifiers for those who desire
us. Along with the smart vending to stay ahead of the technology curve. The BBS
machines, we have formulated and launched a wide modulates various critical components to optimise
range of premium beverages in the tea, coffee, milk energy consumption continuously. This eco-friendly
and soups category. These beverages are all vented dehumidifier is a step forward in energy conservation
through the smart vending machines, which makes through advanced technology.”
this into an ideal printer-cartridge model.” - Dhirendra Choudhary,
- Parimal Shah, CEO, Bry-Air, Gurugram
Founder and CEO, Cherise India, Mumbai

NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | December 2021 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in COVER STORY 27

EXPANDED GLOBAL FOOTPRINT

India has a strategic geographical location which gives it a unique advantage when it comes to exports and global
expansion. With a vision to promote the Prime Minister's vision 'vocal for local' with global outreach, the food
processing industry has conquered new heights.

‘Introduced products in ‘Rolled out new
Middle East & ASEAN markets’ business services for US’
“Last year, our commitment to India “We have officially rolled out a host
made us articulate an ambition to of new business services for US-
invest Rs 2,600 crore
over a 3-4-year period. We have already based nutraceutical companies. We
invested about Rs 1,000 crore thus far. We contributed have formed a strong relationship with
about Rs 15 crore towards CSR spends in the areas Sheldon and Baker Dillon Group, and we look forward
of nutrition awareness, COVID-19 relief initiatives to welcoming global nutraceutical leaders through
etc. during Q2 2021. E-commerce is expected to our series of online educational programming. Nutrify
continue its growth journey and Nestlé India is Today has also collaborated with the Malaysian Dietary
gaining increasing traction herein. On the export Supplements Association (MADSA) to improve public
front, Maggi Noodles and Polo have been introduced health.”
in the markets of Middle East recently. Crunch Wafers - Amit Srivastava,
have been introduced in ASEAN markets. Decrease Founder and Chief Catalyst, Nutrify Today, Mumbai
in pandemic intensity and increase in vaccination
coverage contributed to broad-based growth across ‘Launched offerings in
all food & beverages categories especially coffee & international market’
confectionery.” “After an overwhelming response
- Suresh Narayanan, for our low-carb and keto-friendly
Chairman and Managing Director,
Nestlé India, Gurugram products in India, we have launched
our offerings in the Rs 1 lakh crore
‘Expanded into global international market. Our low-carb and keto friendly
fresh food market’ products will now be available in North America,
“Over the last one-and-half years, UK and South East Asian markets. In addition to
we have been witnessing growing the current range of attas, namkeens, desserts and
cookies, we have introduced a whole new range of
demand among customers across low-carb and keto-friendly brownies, pancakes and
all our markets in India and overseas. waffles to cater to the tastes and preferences of the
We are expanding into new markets in India, the international audience.”
Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), and the US. Our - Sudarshan Gangrade,
mission to lead the fresh food revolution from India Founder, Lo! Foods, Bengaluru
is fueled by an ever-increasing consumer demand
for healthy, natural and high-quality products. As ‘Stepped into UK’s
part of this plan, we have expanded to Oman and onco-nutrition space’
will enter Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait and Qatar. “We have launched our office
In the US, we will be distributing iD’s products in London, United Kingdom in a
across the country in leading stores. We believe
the time is apt to explore new markets and cater move that aims to bridge the Onco
to a wider clientele, given the growing demand Nutrition Gap in UK, Europe and US
for our products and opportunities available in the markets. We will invest in research and development
market.” in the United Kingdom, in strategic collaborations
- Musthafa PC, with universities and trusts working in the areas of
Chief Executive Officer and Co-founder, Nutraceuticals for non-communicable diseases.”
iD Fresh Food, Bengaluru - Raktim Chattopadhyay,
Director, Esperer Nutrition, Mumbai

28 PPP NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | December 2021 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in

How Academia-Industry
can reshape food industry

Academic institutions have been working on developing healthier and sustainable alternatives in terms
of developing healthier foods, packaging, labelling, waste reduction and increasing the shelf life of foods.
Some of the technologies have been transferred to the industry that has been implanted and some of the
technologies are in the early or late stages of development. Let's examine the impact of Academia-Industry
collaboration on the food industry.

Food is very crucial to our existence and people, important factors that need to be considered is the high
today, are becoming more mindful of what they amounts of polyphenols as well, as the very active life
consume. Consumer awareness is on the rise base will reduce the shelf life.”
and demands for healthy foods are surging. The food
industry has risen to the occasion, innovating in terms She further added, “We have developed fortification
of technology, packaging and processing. With newer of atta (flour), for Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises
technologies, there is further scope for sustainable (MSME) who are using chakkis or the roller flour mills.
foods, improved quality, waste reduction and increased Just a small machine has been added for fortification
accessibility of foods. and this can be used by self-help groups also. This
atta can also go into the government intervention
For the industry to reach its potential and meet the programmes where these nutrients are going to make
rising demand, the industry is considering viable options, a huge impact for children, teenage girls and pregnant
one of which is a collaborative approach between women. This technology has already been transferred
industry and academia. Academic institutions have
been working independently as well as in collaboration
with the industry to help improve the technologies and
initiate the development of newer sustainable products.

Academic institutions have been working on
developing healthier and sustainable alternatives
in terms of developing healthier foods, packaging,
labelling, waste reduction and increasing the shelf life of
foods. Some of the technologies have been transferred
to the industry that has been implanted and some
of the technologies are in the early or late stages of
development.

Great leaps in food tech
Council of Scientific and Industrial Research

(CSIR)−Central Food Technological Research Institute
(CFTRI), Mysuru is one such institute that is actively
working on alternative packaging materials for food,
food fortification, increasing the shelf life of millets,
and retaining the nutritional value of cut fruits and
vegetables which is marketed by Big Basket.

Sharing her views on the developments, Dr Sridevi
Annapurna Singh, Director − Central Food Technological
Research Institute (CFTRI), Mysuru commented, “With
millets, CFTRI has developed many technologies be
it puffing, flaking, or ready to eat foods. One of the

NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | December 2021 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in PPP 29

to 60 entrepreneurs, and in Himachal Pradesh, the “We have developed
government is also doing it in a big way.” fortification of atta
(flour), for MSME who
The CFTRI is working with the governments of are using chakkis or
Maharashtra and Chhattisgarh in the collection of Mahua the roller flour mills,
and the development of Mahua products. The institute just a small machine has been
will soon be transferring the technology to self-help added for fortification and this
groups as well as the companies. It will help increase can be used by self-help groups also. This
the incomes of the tribals in the regions of Maharashtra atta can also go into the government
and Chhattisgarh, who are involved in the collection of intervention programmes where these
Mahua and the production of Mahua products. nutrients are going to make a huge impact
for children, teenage girls and pregnant
The institute is developing plant-based proteins women. This technology has already been
where they have a headway in getting the texture right. transferred to sixty entrepreneurs, and in
They are now working on getting the sensory quality Himachal Pradesh, the government is also
right that mimics the quality of animal proteins. doing it in a big way.”

National Institute of Food Technology - Dr Sridevi Annapurna Singh,
Entrepreneurship and Management (NIFTEM), the Director, Central Food Technological
brainchild of the Ministry of Food Processing Industries
(MoFPI), Government of India has developed an Research Institute (CFTRI), Mysuru
advanced ecosystem for entrepreneurship and training
which is very crucial in the present-day context. The “A lot of progress has
institute has an incubation facility for foods, vegetables, been made in cereals
meat and poultry, milk and dairy, and ready to eat and millet technology.
products. Recently, they have also set up a bakery. With millets we have
two projects, one
With a laboratory for food research and analysis, is from the Government of
three centres of excellence have been created. NIFTEM is
working on cold chain technology and management in
collaboration with three-four international organisations,

Madhya Pradesh and another

from the Government of Uttarakhand. Since we

have a ready to eat plant, a lot of products are

coming up.”

- Dr C Vasudevappa,

Vice-Chancellor, NIFTEM, Sonepat, Haryana

there is ongoing work in the department of logistics with
the involvement of the Confederation of Indian Industry
(CII). The institute has also collaborated with Hexagon
and The Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN) on
food fortification. It is also working on addressing issues
related to packaging through bio or nanobiotechnology.

The institute has published 132 Scopus indexed
articles addressing various issues of food science and
technology. Also, around 10 books were published
in 2020. NIFTEM has patented anti-microbial layered
nanocomposite, one trademark on Cocoshreshth in
2020 and copyright on the Structural Analysis of Tool
Version-1. The institute also has seven-eight patents
under submission.

Elaborating on the ongoing developments and
achievements of NIFTEM, Dr C Vasudevappa, Vice-
Chancellor, NIFTEM, Sonepat, Haryana mentioned, “A
lot of progress has been made in Cereals and millets

30 PPP NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | December 2021 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in

“We are in the business technology. With millets we have two projects, one is
of knowledge from the Government of Madhya Pradesh and another
management, some from the Government of Uttarakhand. Since we have a
of us are knowledge ready to eat plant, a lot of products are coming up.”
generators and some
of us are knowledge utilisers. “With regard to fortification, we have signed a
memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Hexagon
It is in this area that we need Nutrition and GAIN. Hexagon has supported with
equipment and GAIN is supporting technically and it
to have a close collaboration in bringing in is going on very well, especially for the fortification
of edible oil with natural antioxidants and vitamin
those technologies and areas of interest that D fortified milk-based beverages, especially lassi,
technological advancement of instant probiotic fruit
are mutually beneficial. Due to the increase juice powder, biodiesel production and food industry
waste utilisation is where we are focussing including
in interaction with the consumer and the biotic compounds and seaweed tea infusion rich in
polyphenols,” said Dr Vasudevappa.
consumer-facing activity that we do, we can
Academic institutions have been working on
bring in a lot of information which otherwise developing technologies addressing the challenges
faced by the food industry and aiding the industry in
is not available with organisations and the incorporating innovative efficient technologies to boost
the sector. One such issue that the industry currently
institutional R&Ds.” faces is the storage of millets as millets are insect
magnets. NIFTEM, Thanjavur, formerly Indian Institute of
- Gourinandan Tonpe, Food Processing Technology (IIFPT) has been working
extensively on resolving this issue. They have even
Co-Founder & CEO, Thinking Forks Consulting developed a non-dairy millet ice cream and transferred
the technology to more than five companies and other
“Technology-wise India’s companies are in the pipeline. The institute is working
first 3D printing on developing more millets-based products, NIFTEM,
scientific papers have Thanjavur, has a strong focus on the development
been published by of food ingredients, spice principles, commodities
NIFTEM, Thanjavur, mainly for their delivery system, micro delivery systems
formerly IIFPT and we are also and nano delivery systems. They are also pioneering
working on the development different delivery systems, encapsulation, multi-layered
of the machine itself. Moving onto 4D printing, encapsulation. Working in close association with
we would be able to get some good impact on industries in developing delivery systems they will
that system. We are starting to commercially implement rice fortification in the country.
produce small type 3D printer machines and a
variety of the products are complete including Dr C Anandharamakrishnan, Director, NIFTEM,
vegan meat from the 3D food printer.” Thanjavur sheds light on some of the work that is being
helmed by the institute. He shared, “Technology-wise
- Dr C Anandharamakrishnan, India’s first 3D printing scientific papers have been
Director, NIFTEM, Thanjavur published by the institute and we are also working on
the development of the machine itself. Moving onto 4D
printing we would be able to get some good impact on
that system and we are starting to commercially produce
small type 3D printer machines and a variety of the
products are complete including vegan meat from the
3D food printer.”

“We have created an Artificial Intelligence (AI)-
enabled sensory lab where a product is tasted, facial
expression and eyeball movement can be tracked
along with colour and how it influences the taste
perception, appearance of the food can be analysed. We

NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | December 2021 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in PPP 31

Novel technologies under development

Products Institute Category
Vitamin D fortified lassi NIFTEM Food
Instant probiotic juice powder NIFTEM Food
Low fat samosa NIFTEM Food
Pomegranate based edible film NIFTEM Food packaging solutions
Economical nano-antibacterial NIFTEM Food safety and quality evaluations
Onion spoilage sensor NIFTEM Food safety and quality evaluations
Shelf life extension in guavas & mangoes NIFTEM Food safety and quality evaluations
Non-dairy coconut ice cream IIFPT Food
Coconut neera sugar crystal IIFPT Food
Conductive hydro-drying IIFPT Innovations in food engineering
Smart sensors in grain storage IIFPT Innovations in food engineering
In-vitro digestive system and GI IIFPT Food safety and quality evaluations
Chitosan-based mango coating CFTRI Food packaging solutions
Bajra jowar semolina CFTRI Food
Edible food coating IIT-Guwahati Food packaging solutions

Source: FICCI 2021 report: Innovation in Food & Nutrition towards a healthier India

are also working with other institutions on developing utilising the talent and coming from these institutes.
alternatives to single-use plastics like cornstarch- There are many technologies that we are working on
based packaging films and we have done an extruder with some institutional R&D where we are trying to learn
packaging film from jackfruit. We have not been able from their experience and expertise to create certain
to do this at a mass level and industry participation is products which bring in the technology and expertise
still lagging, industry and academia need to address the which we don’t have for creating products for some of
bottlenecks,” he concluded. our clients. These are the areas for industrial R&D and
institutional R&D to have a firm handshake and bring
Addressing academia, industry challenges that collaborative approach to solving problems.
Academia and industry are faced with challenges
Moving forward
that are independent of each other. Some of the R&D led by academia and industry have helped
challenges cannot be easily resolved but their impacts
can be reduced by developing more efficient solutions. resolve certain challenging issues with shorter resolution
A collaboration between the industry and academia time. Newer technologies have helped the industry fare
can help eradicate certain challenges that exist both in better and become more efficient. With more emphasis
academia as well as the industry. on R&D and collaborations, the food industry can further
its growth.
“We are in the business of knowledge management,
some of us are knowledge generators and some of Earlier academic institutions were limited both
us are knowledge utilisers. It is in this area that we in terms of resources and courses. This is changing
need to have a close collaboration in bringing in those as institutions are adopting and developing newer
technologies and areas of interest that are mutually technologies that are beneficial for academia and
beneficial. The industry and the industrial R&D with industry. With further collaborations, newer heights can
the amount of interaction with the consumer and the be scaled and gargantuan challenges can be overcome
consumer facing activity that we do can bring in a lot with collective efforts. A partnership between academia
of information which otherwise is not available with and industry could bolster the growth of the food
the organisations and the institutional R&Ds,” remarked industry and help achieve the potential of the Indian
Gourinandan Tonpe, Co-Founder & CEO, Thinking Forks food industry.
Consulting.
Prabhat Prakash
He further mentioned, “Another big opportunity is [email protected]

32 EDUCATION NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | December 2021 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in

Ayurveda turns
hot career option

As per ancient Indian texts of Ayurveda, food and drugs are interconnecting perceptions that are vital for
human survival and for the prevention and mitigation of diseases. The historical perception on health and
nutrition in Ayurveda is holistic and quite different from that of modern nutrition. The wisdom contained
in these ancient texts, particularly from Charaka Samhita, written by Maharishi Charaka, is matchless. No
wonder then, that a number of lifestyle disorders such as hypertension, diabetes can be effectively cured
with Ayurveda and food science. We shall explore the possibilities of synergistic endeavour of Ayurveda and
Food Science.

The Institute of Food Technologists (IFT) defines progress in various dimensions of acceptance by
food science as 'The discipline in which the international society for therapeutic and preventive
engineering, biological, and physical sciences health maintenance particularly in the current
are used to study the nature of foods, the causes of pandemic era."
deterioration, the principles underlying food processing,
and the improvement of foods for the consuming public.' Dr Sharma added, "This level of acceptance in
ayurvedic & food products have motivated and
Hence, if food processing advancement gets added mentored the industries, like AIMIL, to exercise different
in traditional ayurvedic processing, India can become a activities for conforming global standards, namely,
big export hub for Ayurvedic food and medicines. new product development, experimental/animal/
clinical studies for efficacy, safety and non-toxicity
With the increasing demand for traditional medicines establishment, manufacturing, quality control &
and healthcare services over the years, a career in assurance, marketing including field operations and
Ayurveda has become a much sought-after career option technical backup support for field activities, licensing
today. Thus, the Ministry of AYUSH has established many and documentation, exports, trademarks, quality raw
premier institutes that play a pivotal role in undertaking material procurement etc. Thus, there remains a high
teaching, training, research and development in the demand for those seeking fast career developments may
field of Ayurveda. For instance, the National Institute of be as experts in various concerned disciplines on one
Ayurveda (NIA), Jaipur, is the premier institute, under the hand and as freshers for regular employment, aspiring to
Ministry of AYUSH which has been imparting Ayurveda develop concerned skills on the other hand.”
education, clinical training, and research in the field of
Ayurveda. This is the only Ayurveda institute imparting Promoting academic
education in all courses of Ayurveda. It recently research & entrepreneurship
got the status of Deemed-to-be-University
under the De novo category. To promote entrepreneurship
leveraging academic knowledge, All
Commenting on career developments India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA), has
in Ayurveda sector, Dr Ikshit Sharma, set up an Incubation and Innovation
Director, AIMIL Pharmaceuticals, Centre in its campus to nucleate a
New Delhi, said, “There has been an cluster of new age ventures. AIIA
unprecedented growth in the
Ayurveda and Food sector has been recognised as Host
which has opened Institute (HI) under
new, bright career Ministry of Micro,
opportunities Small & Medium
with golden Enterprises (MSME),
chances for fast the Government

NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | December 2021 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in EDUCATION 33

of India which would provide opportunities to the “There remains a high
innovators in developing and nurturing their ideas. demand for those
seeking fast career
The incubation centre set up under the mandate of developments may be
Ministry of AYUSH given to AIIA will nucleate a cluster as experts in various
of new age ventures and to promote entrepreneurship concerned disciplines on one
leveraging the academic knowledge.
hand and as freshers for regular
In another step to promote academic research,
the Ministry of Ayush has entered into an agreement employment, aspiring to develop concerned
with Croatia. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU)
was signed between All India Institute of Ayurveda skills on the other hand.”
(AIIA) and Croatia’s Kvarner Health Tourism Cluster as a
significant step towards bolstering India’s ties with other - Dr Ikshit Sharma,
countries and promoting academic research, clinical and
educational activities, medical education, training, and Director, AIMIL Pharmaceuticals, New Delhi,
competency building.
“India, in association
The countries will be working on research, including with the UK, has
study design and execution, developing evidence-based begun clinical trials
guidelines for integrating Ayurvedic principles and for Ayurvedic herbs
practices with modern medicine, conducting lectures, like the utility of
workshops, seminars and conferences, and other Ashwagandha in treating
activities on Ayurveda.
COVID-19. The food research
Both the countries will develop academic standards
and courses in accordance with the needs of the ecosystem can also be enhanced at the
institution, end users and stakeholders and develop
Ayurvedic medical education guidelines for Ayurveda academic level with sensitising sessions,
education in Croatia.
workshops, and seminars which the Ministry of
Enhancing Ayurveda food research ecosystem
The research and innovation in healthcare has AYUSH has already initiated after duly examining

started gaining fast prominence with the onset of global the immense scope it can bring for students and
pandemic. The pandemic has accelerated the demand
for Ayurveda products in India. youth."

With more and more people turning to - Vikas Chawla,
complementary and alternative medicine and integrative
solutions, Ayurveda offers a unique opportunity for Founder & Director, Vedas Cure, Noida
career advancement in the new age which is unfolding.
sessions, workshops, seminars which the Ministry of
Vikas Chawla, Founder & Director, Vedas Cure, AYUSH has already initiated after duly examining the
Noida, Uttar Pradesh said, “All Ayurveda treatments are immense scope it can bring for students and youth."
recommended on the daily nutritional intake (Aahar)
and lifestyle (Prahar) of an individual. This makes it all Global impact of Ayurveda
more important to enhance the Ayurveda food research There has been an increased global interest in
ecosystem. Even in our ancient texts like Atharva veda,
there are case studies and tips on manner, quantity, and alternative systems of medicines. Efforts to monitor and
quality of food intake as per age, weather and build of a regulate herbal medicines are underway. Recognising
person. This massive and valuable knowledge needs to the strength of alternative systems of medicine, the state
be imparted to the youth as well as children in schools. governments have employed AYUSH providers in public
It will not only make professions like nutritionists, health dispensaries and outpatient clinics.
dieticians and food experts more popular but will give an
edge to our ancient science on a global level.” To address the scarcity of trained medical staff in
India, the Government of India, under the Ministry of
“India,in association with the UK, has begun clinical Skill Development has introduced many Ayurveda and
trials for Ayurveda herbs like the utility of Ashwagandha dietician courses. The courses have not only opened up
in treatment of COVID-19. The food research ecosystem many employment opportunities for the practitioners
can also be enhanced at academic level with sensitising but have also enhanced to bridge the gap between
the patient and the doctor. Thanks to governmental
initiatives, courses in Ayurveda and its positive impact
will continue to spread the ancient wisdom of Sanatan
Vedic texts, of which Ayurveda is a major pillar.

Pooja Yadav
[email protected]

34 FOOD PROCESSING NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | December 2021 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in

Karan Chechi, Major upheavals
mark food
Director, TechSci Research, Noida processing space

India's food processing market is expected to reach over that have traditionally been weak in the food processing
$500 billion by FY2026, owing to factors such as an upsurge sector have seen their food processing capacity increase,
in innovations in food technology, growing demand such as Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh, West
for processed food, etc. With the introduction of new Bengal, etc.
product innovations, the Indian food processing industry
is developing fast. Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh, As a result, the industry is predicted to grow in terms
West Bengal, among other states traditionally lagging in of product category and geographic reach. Additionally,
food processing capacity, have increased their capacity. We rising urbanisation and improving standards of living
shall explore the major growth leaps in this sector and how are prompting people to shift to value-added products.
it's shaping up for the future. These factors are driving the demand for processed and
packaged foods, further resulting in the increased overall
Food processing is the process of converting raw growth of the food processing sector sales.
material or agricultural products into direct edible
food or converting one type of food into another. Technological advantages
It involves certain methods used to turn fresh food into The evolving technology is also playing an important
food products. These include canning, fermentation,
freezing, pasteurisation, etc. Food processing increases role in boosting the food processing sector of India.
the nutritional content of food by making it edible and High-Pressure Processing is slowly gaining popularity
extending its shelf life. Dairy, meat and seafood, cereals, among Indian market players. High-Pressure Processing
grains and oilseeds, fruits and vegetables, non-alcoholic (HPP) is a non-thermal food preservation method that
drinks, and packaged food are the six prominent sub- uses intense pressure in the range of 400-600Mpa
segments of the Indian food processing sector. to destroy hazardous germs. The HPP has negligible
effects on flavour, appearance, and nutritional value.
The major factor contributing to the growth of HPP is commonly used to preserve fruits and vegetable
this market is the rising consumer inclination towards products such as jams, purees, juices, meats, and fish in
processed food as it offers several advantages to the food processing industry. HPP technology is slowly
the consumers, such as ease in preparation, less making its way into the RTE (Ready to Eat) food sector in
susceptibility to spoilage than fresh food, and so on. India.
Processing the food also lowers the risk of foodborne
illness and enhances the flavour of food. For instance, NuTy became India’s first company to
use non-thermal HPP technology for food processing. It
Another major driver of this market is the continuous delivered ready-to-eat curries and dinners utilising HPP
research and development in food processing technology in January 2020.
machinery. The food processing market players are
continually upgrading their technologies and coming up Moreover, the technology of vacuum frying and
with innovations in food processing machinery to meet freeze-drying is also gaining popularity. Healthy snacks
customer demands. such as vacuum fried and freeze-dried snacks have been
launched by several Indian startups. In India, companies
With the introduction of new product innovations, such as Crimz and Orbela Agro Foods have created
the Indian food processing industry is developing fast. vacuum-fried fruit snacks.
This pattern reflects a change in customer preferences
towards processed foods. Furthermore, several states Due to the low pressure used, the frying temperature
is lower in vacuum frying than in atmospheric frying.
When compared to atmospheric frying, the method
of oil adsorption in vacuum frying is different. The low

NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | December 2021 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in FOOD PROCESSING 35

frying pressure helps to reduce the amount of oil in the India are taking initiatives to promote the growth of this
finished product. Thus, making products healthier for market. For instance, according to the Uttar Pradesh State
consumption. Industrial Development Authority, the food processing
industry attracted the most investment in 2020-21,
Persisting challenges totaling more than $127.89 million and accounting for 32
The food processing industry of India is facing certain per cent of all assets received in the year.

challenges such as gaps in supply chain infrastructure, Additionally, the Production Linked Incentive Scheme
which include inadequate primary processing, storage, offered by the government is anticipated to encourage
and distribution facilities, high cost of cold chain food processing companies to expand their processing
facilities, poor connectivity between production and capabilities to satisfy increased demand. The food
processing, seasonality of operations and low-capacity processing sector is preparing for the challenge, with
utilisation. Some of the root crops, fruits, etc., are more investment in product development and growth.
damaged before final consumption during the supply
chain process. Also, in 2021, MoFPI decided to conduct a centrally
supported initiative to build or upgrade 2 lakh micro
This can be overcome by incorporating all food processing firms as part of the Aatmanirbhar Bharat
stakeholders in the supply chain and optimising the Initiative. With a budget of around $1360.54 million, the
supply chain from start to end. Another major challenge firms can be established or improved during the course
faced by India’s food processing sector is the low entry of five years, from 2020 to 2025.
barriers, which are exacerbated by the existence of
multiple small firms. Processing costs are high, and a lack The central Scheme, Micro Food Processing
of scale limits technological solutions. Enterprises Scheme (PMFME) will offer these businesses
all necessary financial, technical, and business assistance.
Moreover, insufficient product development and This will help the entrepreneurs and expand the food
innovation and a lack of attention to quality and safety processing market in the country.
requirements are also some of the challenges faced by
the food processing industry. Furthermore, in 2021 the prime minister Narendra
Modi stated that for the first time, the Indian fisheries
The COVID-19 pandemic situation further fueled the sector is receiving large-scale assistance, which will
demand for processed food such as bread, breakfast enhance fish processing in India. Thus, further boosting
cereals, ready-to-eat segment, etc. It has led to increased the growth of the food processing market in India.
acceptance of processed food. All the key segments of
India's food processing sector saw a positive impact on These government measures, together with the
the demand except the meat & marine segment, which development prospects in the nation, such as rising
witnessed a negative impact due to low demand. demand for ready-to-eat or ready-to-prepare meals,
growing need for safe processed foods, and a reduction
During the pandemic, consumers were more inclined in overdependence on cereals, are anticipated to enhance
towards hygienic products with longer shelf lives, and growth of the food processing industry in India.
this factor led to the rise in demand for processed food
which further contributed to the growth of the food
processing sector of the country. However, exports were
severely interrupted due to COVID-19, and recovery is
projected to take time.

Prospective governmental initiatives
The Government of India is also taking all necessary

initiatives to increase investments in the food processing
sector in India through the Ministry of Food Processing
Industries (MoFPI). Quality infrastructure for modern
food processing is being established across the nation
with the help of the Government of India's Pradhan
Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana (PMKSY). The government
has approved 38 of the 41 food parks that were funded
via the Mega Food Parks Scheme. There were just two
mega food parks in the nation in 2014.

As of August 1, 2021, 22 mega food parks are
operating in the country. Moreover, different states of

36 FORTIFICATION NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | December 2021 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in

Tarun Vij, Ensuring all Indians
benefit from
Country Director- India, fortified staples
Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition

(GAIN), New Delhi

India is at present confronting a significant burden of hidden hunger or micronutrient malnourishment. It
malnutrition, being home to one in three of the world’s is indicated that for addressing iron deficiency, food
malnourished children, and with the second highest level of fortification is the most cost-effective intervention with
wasting among children globally. Also, a high percentage of a cost of $66 per disability adjusted life year (DALY),
women in the reproductive age are anaemic. This elevated whereas supplementation and dietary diversification
level of malnourishment is essentially due to poor food have estimated costs of $179 and $103 per DALY,
quality intake lacking in important micronutrients such respectively. It is estimated that every dollar spent on
as iron, zinc, vitamins, and folate which are necessary for fortification results in USD 9 in benefits to the economy.
human growth and development. We shall explore the
viable measures that can be taken and examine the efforts In today’s scenario, as the world continues to
already underway. confront the catastrophe of COVID-19, the importance
of micronutrients to boost immunity is well recognised.
Findings from a recent study substantiate that Fortified staples deliver needed micronutrients such as
about 45-64 per cent of the rural poor population vitamins A and D (in edible oil and milk) and vitamin
in India cannot afford a nutritious diet that meets B12, folic acid, and iron (in wheat-flour and rice) and
Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDA) as per India’s iron and iodine in double fortified salt. It is essential to
dietary guidelines. Concurrently, consumption of understand that fortified staples can achieve universal
ultra-processed food is increasing at an alarming rate; reach at the population level, especially in poor and
increased consumption of these foods is found to be vulnerable communities with 25 to 30 per cent of the
significantly and inversely associated with the content required daily allowances of essential micronutrients,
of vitamin B12, vitamin D, vitamin E, niacin, pyridoxine, thereby contributing to mitigating the severe
copper, iron, phosphorus, magnesium, selenium, and consequences of micronutrient
zinc. Furthermore, as the adverse health and socio- deficiencies.
economic impacts of COVID-19 continue to disrupt
livelihoods and food and health supply chains, the Fortification
nutritional status of millions of people is likely to worsen, of staple
since both the availability of food and the ability to pay foods
for it, adversely impacts the poor. is not

To arrest and reverse the progress of micronutrient
deficiencies globally, the 2012 edition of the
Copenhagen Consensus identified large scale food
fortification as the number one priority. A great body
of evidence exists, including a recent systematic review
and meta-analysis of large-scale food fortification
(LSFF) programmes, which confirmed the impact of
fortification on nutritional outcomes.. Food fortification
is a scientifically established, cost-effective, and highly
scalable process that helps reduce the high load of

NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | December 2021 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in FORTIFICATION 37

a new intervention, dating back to the early 1920s development of the poor, particularly women and
with salt iodisation in Switzerland, and since then children, announced that by 2024, all rice being provided
the consumption of fortified foods has increased through social protection schemes such as the Public
significantly globally. Currently, over 140 countries Distribution System (PDS), and the school mid-day meals
have guidance or regulations in place for fortification will be fortified.
programmes, the majority of which are mandatory.
85 countries mandate at least any one kind of cereal Fortification: Scope and scaling-up
grain (maize or rice or wheat) be fortified with iron A large-scale staple food fortification programme is
and folic acid. Edible oils and milk are increasingly
becoming the common vehicles for fortification, and so a population-based, cost-effective, preventive strategy,
far, 27 countries have mandated edible oil fortification which aims to improve the nutritional status of all
with vitamin A; and 14 countries have mandated milk and not just high-risk groups. Given the multifaceted
fortification, with 11 countries fortifying milk with nutrition challenges in India, fortification of staple foods
both Vitamins A and D. Fortification does not lead to can be an effective approach in complementarity to
changes in taste, colour, or other sensory attributes of diet diversity, micronutrient supplementation, provision
the staple food, thereby resulting in high acceptance of safe water and sanitation, nutrition education and
among the consuming population, through both open enabling policies, all of which are needed to holistically
market as well as safety net programmes, leading to its combat malnutrition in all its forms.
increasing adoption worldwide.
Success in scaling-up of staple food fortification,
Governmental initiatives however, is predicated on designing high-quality
India’s journey with food fortification began in the programmes with effective reach, ensuring compliance
to fortification standards, monitoring of reliable data,
1950s with the fortification of vanaspati with vitamin and usage of technology enablers at the production
A, and salt iodisation. Other commodities such as and market levels to ensure fortification quality at
fortified rice, oil and wheat flour were introduced in the one end, and appropriate regulatory monitoring and
early 2000s. This momentum accelerated in the year micronutrient testing at the other.
2016 when India’s food regulator—the Food Safety &
Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) established national It is recommended that states consider the inclusion
standards for fortification of rice, wheat flour, edible oil, of edible oil in Fair Price Shops (FPS) as a non-PDS item
double fortified salt (DFS), and milk. (without provision of subsidies) to be made available to
all PDS beneficiaries. Procuring directly from industry
In 2017, the Government of India also issued through tendering processes can potentially make the
new directives to use fortified staples in safety net product more affordable in the hands of the consumer.
programmes, such as DFS, fortified wheat flour and In this way, the provisioning of fortified edible oil in PDS
fortified edible oil through mid-day meals (MDM) will also facilitate the Anganwadi Centres and schools
and Integrated Child Development Schemes (ICDS). to mainstream fortified edible oil into the cooking of
In his Independence Day speech on August 15, ICDS supplementary nutrition meals and school mid-
2021, the Prime Minister of India, citing malnutrition day meals. Currently, most states provide wheat grain
and micronutrient deficiency as an obstacle to the instead of wheat flour through PDS. We also recommend
the introduction of fortified wheat flour in PDS
through appropriate strengthening supply chains and
warehousing. Some states, such as Himachal Pradesh
have set an example through their state-wide adoption
of fortified wheat flour supply to PDS beneficiaries and
more states may adopt similar models.

Finally, as we scale-up staple food fortification,
it is imperative to ensure compliance with the FSSAI
standards by producers. The nutritional benefits will
only be delivered to the consumer in case the staples
are adequately fortified and conform to national
standards. Additionally, we need to strengthen the
capacity of accredited laboratories for effective
micronutrient testing in fortified staples. This is crucial
for effective and sustained monitoring of the quality of
fortified foods.

38 FSSAI INITITIATIVE NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | December 2021 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in

Arun Singhal, How Trans
Fat wreaks
CEO, FSSAI, New Delhi health havoc

Consumption of trans fat alone acts as a significant risk entire world is making efforts in this direction. The World
factor for coronary heart disease events and mortality. Health Organisation (WHO) has mandated all countries
Globally, eliminating industrially produced trans-fatty to bring down the levels of trans fats from the food
acids can save 17 million lives over the next 25 years. supply upto 2 per cent by the year 2023.
It is considered the worst type of fat one can consume.
Reduction of trans fats is an absolute must and the entire Thus, there is an utmost need to provide a healthy
world is making efforts in this direction. India has taken a food environment that is trans fat free to enable people
big leap towards trans fat elimination by adopting the triple to adopt and maintain healthy dietary intakes. The Food
action strategy for reducing trans fats consumption. Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has
used a multi-pronged approach towards constituting
As the world is advancing and systems are getting a ‘Healthy India’. On one side, the Food Regulator is
complexed, food choices are also changing bringing regulations and persuading food businesses
drastically all over the world. Today, with rapid to limit the fat, sugar and salt content in foods, and
urbanisation and changing lifestyle, dietary patterns eliminate trans fatty acids (TFA), while on the other
have shifted towards pre-packed foods, frozen foods, fast side, through the Eat Right initiative and awareness
food including fried foods and desserts etc, which may programmes, the FSSAI is trying to generate awareness
be high in salt, sugar, fats and even trans fats. among consumers to reduce the consumption of foods
containing high levels of fat, sugar and salt.
Consumption of trans fat alone acts as a significant
risk factor for coronary heart disease events and mortality. India’s Triple Action Strategy
Globally, eliminating industrially produced trans-fatty India has taken a big leap towards trans fat
acids can save 17 million lives over the next 25 years. It is
considered the worst type of fat one can consume. Foods elimination by adopting the triple action strategy
prepared using partially hydrogenated vegetable oils for reducing trans fats consumption – Enforcement,
(vanaspati, margarine and bakery shortening) generally
contain trans fats. The growing incidence of non-
communicable diseases is a wakeup call for us to ensure
we create a safer food system and understand why Trans
Fats is a critical problem for our country.

In India, a variety of foods are prepared using these
materials e.g., sweets (Jalebi, laddu etc.), bakery products
(fan, patty, puff, cake, pastry etc.), which may contain
trans fats. Furthermore, re-heating cooking oils can lead
to formation of small amounts of trans fats; not only at
commercial outlets but even at household levels. It also
leads to formation of Total Polar Compounds (TPC) which
are toxic in nature and cause severe health hazards such
as hypertension, atherosclerosis, Alzheimer’s disease,
liver diseases.

Reduction of trans fats is an absolute must and the

NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | December 2021 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in FSSAI INITITIATIVE 39

Engagement and Awareness. While the regulatory action is mandatory, regulations
alone don’t really win any such kind of war, especially
Enforcement when it comes to changing behaviour.
India took a step forward to follow the WHO’s call
Engagement
to eliminate industrially produced trans fat from the To achieve a country free of industrially produced
food supply. The FSSAI has taken up the trans fat issue
at priority with cohesive efforts directed towards best trans fats, the FSSAI is constantly working towards
practices and policy framework. To control increased nudging food businesses to identify new technologies
risk of non-communicable diseases, Regulation on Food and ingredients to eliminate trans fats from the food
Safety and Standards (Food Products Standards and supply chain. Engagement with all these stakeholders
Food Additives) Tenth Amendment Regulations, 2020 will ensure that trans-fat free or low trans fat products
has been notified to limit industrial TFA to not more than are made available to people.
3 per cent in all fats and oils by January 2021 and not
more than 2 per cent by January 2022.This regulation However, there are certain challenges associated with
has also been extended to all food products (having hand holding and educating stakeholders to comply
edible oil/fat as an ingredient), to limit industrial TFA to 2 with the regulation on elimination of trans fat. The FSSAI
per cent from January 1, 2022 under the Food Safety and has initiated the campaign ‘India@75: Freedom from
Standards (Prohibition and Restrictions on Sales) Second trans fats’ that aims to bring all stakeholders together
Amendment Regulations, 2021. and to ease the implementation. A series of technical
sessions/webinars have been conducted to sensitise
Another important aspect is to ensure that school stakeholders like industry associations, bakers and food
children and youngsters develop healthy eating businesses, chefs, restaurateurs and hoteliers, edible oil
practices. Keeping this in mind, the FSSAI has notified industry, sweet and namkeen manufacturers, laboratory
the Food Safety and Standards (safe food and balanced networks and academic institutions. Each webinar was
diets for children in school) Regulations, 2020. With effect planned to target a specific target audience focusing on
from July 1, 2021, it restricts the availability of foods high challenges faced by them towards making a shift to trans
in saturated fat or trans fat or added sugar or sodium fat free products and do-able solutions through talks/
in school campuses or within 50 metres of the schools. sessions deliberated by global experts.
This regulation prohibits the advertisement or marketing
of food products, high in saturated fats or trans fats Awareness
or added sugar or sodium within school campuses or Elimination of trans fat is a vital part of the ‘Eat Healthy’
within 50 meters radius. It also promotes consumption of
safe and balanced diet in and around school campuses. pillar of the Eat Right India movement. In addition to
A general guidance document for providing safe food regulations on limiting trans fats and engagement with
and balanced diets and selection of right food items for stakeholders, the FSSAI uses various mediums such as
children is also provided in the regulation. social media platforms, videos, public service messages,
Eat Right Melas, among others, to make consumers aware
about the harmful effects of trans fat and its elimination.
It is extremely important to provide information to
the public because unless they know what they are
consuming they can’t make any informed choice.

Some of the actions areas include:
 Mass awareness campaigns to reduce salt, fat and
sugar in the diet, - like 'Aaj Se Thoda Kam' and 'Trans
Fat Free India by 2022' and encourage consumers to
voluntarily cut down on salt, sugar and saturated fat
levels.
 Dedicated webpage under the Eat Right India
website to make people aware about harmful effects of
trans fats on our health.
 A mass media public service campaign
’Heart Attack Rewind’- a 30-second Public Service
Announcement (PSA) with an aim to create awareness
about the harmful effects of trans-fat by, reducing
acceptability of industrially produced (IP) trans fat in

40 FSSAI INITITIATIVE NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | December 2021 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in

The FSSAI has been taking several measures across 34 States/Union Territories. Overall, only 84
to tackle the issue of trans fats, with an samples, i.e. 1.34 per cent, have more than 3 per cent
organised approach to ensure India achieves industrially produced trans fats from the total of 6,245
its target and create a model where everyone samples. This shows that the industry is on the right
understands the problem of trans fats. trajectory of becoming industrial trans fat free in the
However, to make it successful, specific steps 75th year of India’s independence.
need to be taken by other stakeholders.
The FSSAI is providing technical assistance What is needed?
to specific stakeholders to move towards The FSSAI has been taking several measures to tackle
trans fat elimination. Fat/oil manufacturers
are being nudged to make technological the issue of trans fats, with an organised approach to
advancements adopted globally and the ensure India achieves its target and create a model
most appropriate method to eliminate trans- where everyone understands the problem of trans fats.
fat from partially hydrogenated vegetable However, to make it successful, specific steps need to
oils/fats e.g. setting up interesterification be taken by other stakeholders. The FSSAI is providing
plants etc. technical assistance to specific stakeholders to move
towards trans fat elimination.
foods, building public support for government action to
eliminate IP trans fat and leading consumers to the the Fat/oil manufacturers are being nudged to make
FSSAI website to seek more information about trans fat. technological advancements adopted globally and the
most appropriate method to eliminate trans-fat from
 A 'Trans Fat Free' logo was launched in October partially hydrogenated vegetable oils/fats e.g. setting up
2020, which can be voluntarily used by food business interesterification plants etc.
operators to empower consumers to make right food
choices. Food establishments which use trans fat free Sweet and namkeen manufacturers are being
oil and do not have industrial trans fat more than encouraged to maintain fat/oil quality and reduce the
0.2g/100g of food, in compliance with the Food Safety formation of trans fats during food preparation with the
and Standards (Advertising and Claims) Regulations, halwais and sweet manufacturers.
2018 can display 'Trans Fat Free' logo in their outlets and
on their food products. This is marked as an important Bakers and food businesses: The FSSAI has
milestone in the movement against Trans Fats. appraised the bakery and packaged food sector
about the regulation and the trans fat free sticker/
The FSSAI carried out a baseline survey in the month logo by FSSAI. The FSSAI also connected Food Business
of June-2021 for presence of industrially produced Operators (FBOs) with the edible oil industry to
trans fatty acid content in the select food categories in introduce the trans fat free fats that can be used to
partnership with Quality Council of India (QCI). Samples reduce/eliminate the trans-fat content in their products.
of various packaged food items under six predefined
food categories were collected from 419 cities/districts Analytical laboratories: The FSSAI is in the process
of strengthening the laboratory capacity for assessing
trans fats in fats/oil/foods as per the global standards.
In this regard the FSSAI connected the labs with
experts from WHO headquarters to introduce the newly
launched global protocol for assessment of TFA.

Chefs, restaurateurs and hoteliers: The FSSAI has
always highlighted the crucial role of chefs, restaurateurs
and hoteliers in providing healthy food options without
trans-fat. To strengthen the skills of chefs, restaurateurs,
and hoteliers, the FSSAI organised webinars, specifying
strategies to replace trans-fat by choosing healthier
cooking oil and altering cooking techniques, which are
easy to adopt and benefit in the long run.

To keep up the momentum, the FSSAI will continue
to rigorously monitor and ensure full compliance at
field level by engaging intensively with food businesses;
capacity building programmes targeted towards food
businesses; augmenting lab capacity to accurately
measure and monitor trans fats in foods; and to achieve
the goal of freedom from trans-fat by 2022.

NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | December 2021 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in EVENT REPORT 41

4th ICFN–2021

"Market economics of medical
food is showing great surge"

“COVID-19 has brought a shift in the alternative investments through M&A, New levels of Quality-Safety-
medicine industry with a huge impact on Efficacy adopted by nutraceutical manufacturing units,
market dynamics. For instance, Chyawanprash Marketing and product positioning through pharmacy
sales across industry grew 283 per cent in June 2020, based channels, evolution of regulatory specification
Branded honey rose 39 per cent, and demand for vitamin to match the transition, Investment in clinical research,
supplements increased drastically (Vitamin Accurate categorisation of newly developed products,
D by 160 per cent, Vitamin C by 590 per Increasing channel partnerships, Establishing scientific
cent, Elderberry by 650 per cent and credulity through product testing and enhanced R&D
Zinc by 1,100 per cent) in past one and Re-engineering marketing and branding to reach
year” said Dr Dilip Ghosh, Principal maximum population are nurturing the transition of
pharmaceutical to nutraceutical or vice-versa.
Consultant, Nutriconnect, Australia.
Dr Ghosh was speaking at the 4th Remarking on the benefit of nutraceuticals in both
treatment and prevention of disease, Dr Ghosh explained
International Conference on Food and Nutrition (4th opportunities and challenges in this multi-billion-
ICFN–2021) was held on September 23- 24, 2021 at dollar industry. Highlighting the concerns associated
Singapore in all new virtual format. with safety, claimed efficacy, and quality of natural
ingredients, evidence-based nutraceuticals, Dr Ghosh
Talking about the growth of the nutra market, Dr underlined the steadily increasing market interests in
Ghosh said, “Since 2010 there has been a huge surge in herbal medicine, nutraceuticals, and ethnomedicines.
the nutraceutical area, including publication, research,
funding and more. A recent data by Grand View Research While the concerns associated with non-
indicates that the global nutraceutical market size communicable disease are still prevailing, advancement
was valued at $382 billion in 2019. India and China are in disease prevention methodologies and invention
two leading markets in this sector. Another study by of various vaccines is still remaining as the preferred
Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of choices since the previous century. In recent years,
India (ASSOCHAM) indicates that Indian nutraceutical healthcare is witnessing promotion of healthy diet,
market is poised to grow from $2.8 billion in 2015 to $8.5 trending to become the future of health management.
billion by 2022. COVID-19 has a very positive impact on Commenting on the contemporary trend, Dr Ghosh said,
Ayurvedic products with the global Ayurvedic market “Improving population health is becoming a major focus
valued at $4.5 billion in 2017 with expectations of later for food and nutrition industries, influencing the growth
growing to $14.9 billion by 2026.” potential of the F&N industry.

Further, providing insights on the Australian Over the past decade, there is considerable
nutraceutical market, Dr Ghosh explained, “Australia progression in pharma and nutraceutical industry
has a huge market considering the per capita usage of with the evolution of food/medicinal alternatives like
herbal medicine. A study reveals that around 79 per cent functional foods, nutraceuticals, medical foods and
of Australians use herbal medicine, which accounts to phytomedicines.
7 out of 10 individuals in the country who trust herbal
medicine. With pharmacies being the main distribution Categorising the disease prevention and health
channel, the Australian market valued $5.6 billion in promotion foods in the current era, Dr Ghosh illustrated
2020. The strong market is fortified with 148 Therapeutic four classifications as below:
Goods Administration (TGA) licenced manufacturing
sites, 2852 direct employees in the sector, $71.704  Food: Consumable with essential protein,
average wage in the sector, valued at $407 million with carbohydrates and fats as growth and nurturing
CARG of 6 per cent for the forecast period 2014-2019.” components

Dr Ghosh pointed out that following facts such  Functional foods: Food added with essential
as Increased interest from pharma industries, New nutritive ingredients to fortify the nutritional benefits

 Nutraceuticals: Food or its components which

42 EVENT REPORT NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | December 2021 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in

are nutritionally rich and medically activated for health application of new technology, product strategy,
benefits or to treat a disease regulatory managements, marketing strategy, supply
chain, and deal-making can accelerate the reach of these
 Medical food: Specifically, formulated foods with innovative products as the earliest for a precise and
intended dietary management for distinctive nutritional holistic regimen for the future.
needs superior than the normal diet
Impact of inadequate nutrition
Talking about the challenges associated with and pre-existing diseases on COVID-19
the food and pharma industry, Ghosh explained
that nutraceutical and pharmaceutical industries are Global health care agencies have been emphasising
switching their interests and priorities with each other the importance of a balanced diet during the COVID- 19
with a surge in the demand for food-based health outbreak and minimising its associated complications.
promoting portfolios. Deficiency of micronutrients can lead to malnutrition
which is a significant reason for weak immunity and high
While comparing the global food and nutraceutical susceptibility to viral infections. Several micronutrients
(F&N) market share by different zones/countries, Dr such as Vitamin A, beta-carotene, folic acid, vitamin
Ghosh explained that “USA stands as the biggest market B12, Vitamin C, riboflavin, iron, zinc, and selenium, have
for F&N with 30 per cent markets share followed by immune modulating functions and thus, stimulates the
Japan (22 per cent), Europe (14 per cent) with rest of susceptibility of host to infectious diseases, along with
the world contributing to 34 per cent of global F&N the course and outcome of related disease.
industry. This is also influenced by increasing Merger
and Acquisitions (M&A) strengthening the nutraceuticals Meenakshi Bajaj, Former President,
sector over the past 20 years”.
Indian Dietetic Association, Chennai
Giving an overview of medical foods, Dr Ghosh Chapter (India), stated that “Calorie
observed, “The market economics of medical food is restricted diet reduces micronutrients.
showing great surge, with $18.4 billion market size in Immune impairment associated
2019 and is expected to reach $31 billion by 2027 with a with nutritional inadequacy increases
CAGR of 10 per cent. The patent applications for medical susceptibility to infection and permits infections to
foods is also increasing indicating an upsurge in medical become more severe. Improving the immune system
food R&D. It has numerous applications, including is the right solution to COVID-19 by preventing
treatment of Chronic kidney disease, minimal hepatic deregulation, modulating the immune system, to
encephalopathy, Chemotherapy-induced diarrhoea, reduce the risk of infection. Conditions like malnutrition,
Pathogen related infections, Diabetic neuropathy, undernutrition and overnutrition will further promote
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), severity in the disease”.
Alzheimer’s disease, nutritional deficiency and more”.
Recommending consumption of a well-balanced diet
Dr Ghosh foresees optimistic growth in the medical meal to meet the nutritional demand required for the
food sector, because over the years it can also decrease immune system, Meenakshi added, “Each nutrient plays
the public healthcare expenses of the next-aging a specific immune modulating role. Adequate intake
generations which can manage better health with of macronutrients, micronutrients (Vitamin A, B6, B12,
medical foods instead of pharmaceutical and surgery Folate, C, D, E), trace elements (zinc, selenium, copper,
based treatments. Incorporation of medical foods in iron, magnesium), resveratrol and phytonutrients of high
treatment regimen can also assist recovery from the ORAC value, are all vital to mount appropriate immune
long term illness by being alternative to pharmaceutical response through gene expression, cell activation,
drugs. signalling molecules modification and antioxidants
activity. A diet enriched with prebiotics and probiotics
Further, enlightening on the novel concept of helps to achieve healthy gut microbiota by regulating
‘Phytopharmaceutical drugs’ Dr Ghosh explained the the immune system”.
benefits of medical plant extracts for internal or external
diagnosis, treatment, mitigation, or prevention of any Further, elucidating the impact of COVID-19
diseases or disorders. The special ingredients of this in diabetic patients, she added “Glycosylated
novel drug form will include purified and standardised haemoglobin is associated with systemic inflammation,
fractions with minimum four bio-active or phyto- hypercoagulability, and low saturated oxygen with
chemical compounds (qualitatively and quantitatively COVID-19 patients, thus the mortality rates increases
addressed) of an extract of a medial plant or its part. with diabetic conditions. Gut health influences the
To be administered by non-parenteral route under immune system by 80 per cent. Maintenance of good
physician consultations. gut health with probiotic, prebiotic, nutrients and amino

Concluding the discussions Dr Ghosh said that

NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | December 2021 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in EVENT REPORT 43

acids will boost immunity and improve glycaemic index”. for Special Dietary Use (FSDU), Food for Special Medical
She highlighted that supplementation of probiotics Purpose (FSMP), Functional foods and Novel foods. The
regulations specify essential composition of the product,
in high risk and severely ill patients, and frontline additives, compliance of specific labelling requirements,
healthcare workers might limit the COVID-19 infection. in addition to the provisions of the Packaging and
Labelling Regulations, Contaminants, Toxins and Residue
Futuristic protein source Regulations, and Health Claims, if any. The regulations
Protein consumption has been the major part of also clarified the meanings of the eight categories
of the food products. The regulations contain eight
human diet with animal meat being the major source. schedules of list of permitted ingredients and additives.
Revolutionary bioprocessing models can grow nutrient Food Business Operators (FBO) need not to obtain pre
and active ingredients in a bioreactor through scalable, approval if their product complies with the regulations.
efficient, low-energy and less polluted processes to meet For Health Claims, pre-approval is required from the
the protein needs of the future. Single cell protein or FSSAI. FSS Act 2006 is a self-compliance act. FBOs have
cell based protein can be stable alternatives to animal to comply with the Act, Rules and Regulations”.
source by limiting the livestock expenses and skipping
fluctuating food insecurity concerns and also by being Speaking about the market potential of
independent of environmental factors and seasonal nutraceuticals, Chakraborty added, “Global nutraceutical
agricultural activities. market is expected to reach $722 billion by 2027, while
APAC accounted for a major market share of 31 per cent
Microorganisms like yeast, fungi, bacteria, and in 2019.”
microalgae can create futuristic meat alternatives.
“Among all, microalgae being high on essential amino “From $5 billion in 2019, the Indian nutraceutical
acids, Fatty acids (DHA, EPA, Omega 3), Carotenoids, market is expected to reach $11 billion by 2023 to hold
Chlorophyll, Fibber, Vitamin A/B/C/E, lipids and other 3.5 per cent of global market share. Manufacturing
essential nutrients can be the best choice of cell based of imported nutraceuticals under the ‘Make In India”
protein sources. Encouraging production programme created opportunities in India. While pharma
of bio processed food products will help companies and FMCG companies are controlling the
in cost reduction and gradually reduce Indian nutraceutical market, there are challenges in the
the consumption of actual meat” said nutraceutical manufacturing sector too”, he added.
Eugene Y. Wang, Co-Founder & CEO,
Sophie’s BioNutrients, Singapore. The Next ICFN
The 4th ICFN–2021 brought together more than
Wang proposed the regulation of actual
meat consumption by production of hybrid food which 245 renowned researchers, scientists and scholars to
is a combination of both conventional animal source and exchange innovative ideas and share exclusive research
partial plant based alternative. Reduction of percentage findings in multifaceted food and nutrition science. The
of meat usage in a particular food product will reduce conference unravelled with perspicacious discussions
the current extensive demand and expenses in livestock revolving around the theme “Immunity, Nutrition and
production and maintenance gradually. He proposed Covid-19”. The insightful conference covered trending
‘Processed Food 2.0’ as ‘health and sustainability topics like ‘food processing and technologies, Immunity
drivers’ for transparency in the food industry, along and infection, food safety and security, nutrition
with adapting low cholesterol and GI, which in turn education, ideal nutrition to prevent COVID-19, public
reduces greenhouse gasses, deforestation and livestock health nutrition, food chemistry and more such arenas.
dependency. Experts from F&N industries, academicians, regulatory
specialists, key management personnel and decision
Current regulatory landscape makers unveiled opportunities and issues associated
for nutraceutical in India with global F&N industries while discussing critical
scenarios at Asian regions.
Speaking about nutraceuticals and
nutrition food in Indian population A subsequent event on “Clinical nutrition and Dietary
Pradip Chakraborty, Sr Advisor, Lifestyle” will be held on May 20 -21, 2022 in Bangalore,
Centre for Public Health & Food India. The theme of the summit will be “Nutrition, Health
Safety (CPHFS) and former Director at and Wellness” covering all the facets of nutritional
Food Safety and Standards Authority science, agricultural nutrition, immunity and more.
of India (FSSAI), India, revealed , “Only
from December 2016 onwards the FSSAI implanted Hithaishi C Bhaskar
regulations for health supplements, nutraceuticals, Food [email protected]

44 PEOPLE NEWS NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | December 2021 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in

WayCool Foods Appoints Innoterra names
Amit Chamaria as CFO
Alex Augustine as CPO for global operations

WayCool Foods, a Chennai-based startup, has brought Swiss-Indian food and technology platform Innoterra
on board Alex Augustine as its Chief People Officer has announced the appointment of Amit Chamaria
(CPO). Augustine is a business leader with over 27 as Chief Financial Officer (CFO), Global Operations.
years of multi-sector generalist experience in HR Chamaria currently holds the position of CFO- India,
and Operations joining WayCool to help architect and is Co-CEO of Innoterra India, a role he shares
the future of its distributed workforce. WayCool with Innoterra’s Group General Counsel and Chief
has recently announced aggressive expansion Compliance Officer, Yashasvini Kumar. Chamaria is the
plans within and beyond India and is also closing second leader from India to take on a global role, after
its next round of fundraising to enable the same. Yashasvini Kumar, who was promoted to her global
In this role, he will oversee best practices in human role a few months
resources management, operations, organisational ago. In his new role,
Chamaria will focus on
development, talent management, and talent building world-class
acquisition. He will also have a focus on financial operations at
the company’s culture and employee Innoterra and being
engagement as WayCool continues a strong business
to grow its workforce throughout partner to leaders
India and expands its international across geographies.
operations. Augustine brings He will work closely
exceptional experience across all with Innoterra’s
facets of human resources strategy Global CFO, Jonny
and development on a global scale, Suter, whose clear
having served most recently as the focus is on executing
Chief People and Culture Innoterra’s growth strategy and unlocking synergies
Officer for the India through strategic partnerships. Chamaria has been
operations of ISS a part of the Innoterra team since 2017. He has
World, one of the played a critical role in ensuring seamless corporate
world's leading consolidation and financial streamlining of the
outsourced Innoterra business units. Named Chief Financial Officer
services for Innoterra India in 2020, he has been instrumental
companies, in ensuring operational stability and growth in the
operating post-pandemic business environment.
in 30+
countries
worldwide.

FieldFresh Foods appoints Mahesh Kanchan as CEO

Gurugram-based FieldFresh Foods, a joint role as the CEO, he will be focusing on
venture between Bharti Enterprises and Del further strengthening the Del Monte
Monte Pacific, has announced the elevation brand, the product portfolio and the
of Mahesh Kanchan as Chief Executive Officer distribution network. The Del Monte
(CEO). Kanchan, who was earlier serving as brand originated in the US and is now
the Chief Commercial Officer with FieldFresh available worldwide. The company
Foods, will take over from Yogesh Bellani who sells branded processed food and
has decided to pursue opportunities outside beverage products in India
of the company. Kanchan has over two including fruit juices, ketchup,
decades of experience in the FMCG space. He mayonnaise and packaged
joined FieldFresh Foods in 2020. In his new fruits among other items.

NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | December 2021 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in INGREDIENTS NEWS 45

Tate & Lyle appoints IMCD
as distribution partner in Italy

Givaudan buys US- Tate & Lyle, a British provider shared ambition to offer
of food and beverage innovative solutions for
based natural food solutions, has appointed their customers, helping
IMCD, a global leader in them to meet consumer
colour firm DDW the sales, marketing and demand for healthier food
distribution of specialty food and beverages lower in
As part of its 2025 strategy to expand the ingredients and flavours, as sugar and calories and with
portfolio of its global Taste & Wellbeing its distribution partner in cleaner labels and added
business, Swiss firm Givaudan has announced Italy. This agreement comes fibre. IMCD will provide Tate
that it has reached an agreement to acquire after successful cooperation & Lyle’s broad portfolio of
DDW, The Color House, a US based natural between Tate & Lyle and ingredients and solutions,
colour company. The acquisition will enable IMCD in Sweden, Norway including its PROMITOR
Givaudan to become a global leader in natural and Denmark since 2015, Soluble Fibres, CLARIA
colours, enhancing its ability to create ‘Feel and Germany, Belgium, The Clean Label Starches
Good’ Food Experiences through its extensive Netherlands, Luxemburg and Stevia sweeteners, to
portfolio of taste and sense solutions. and Morocco since 2021. It its customers in Italy from
Headquartered in the US, DDW is a leading builds on the companies’ January 1, 2022.
privately-held company in the natural colour
industry, with 12 manufacturing facilities
around the world and 315 associates. The
terms of the deal have not been disclosed and
Givaudan plans to debt fund the transaction.
DDW’s business would have represented
approximately $140 million of incremental
sales to Givaudan’s results in 2020 on a
proforma basis.

Sweegen expands sugar reduction portfolio

Sweegen, based in the US, is excellent value in a sweetener. As a Brazzein is stable in a wide range
expanding its extensive sweetener sweetener, brazzein promises little of pH and retains its qualities after
portfolio in early 2022 with to no bitter aftertaste and helps pasteurisation. It is also readily
the zero-calorie, high-intensity to reduce sweet linger, reducing soluble, making it ideal for sugar
sweetener brazzein. The product taste modulation challenges in reduction across a spectrum of food
was developed in collaboration the natural and beverage applications. Found
with long-term innovation partner sweetener sparingly in nature, brazzein derives
Conagen, which has scaled it to from the West African climbing
commercial production. Brazzein is space. plant’s fruit, oubli. To scale brazzein
a small, heat-stable protein, 500
to 2,000 times sweeter sustainably, Conagen produces
than regular sugar, it by a proprietary precision
making it very attractive fermentation process, a
to food and beverage technology producing
manufacturers seeking clean, nature-based
ingredients.

46 INGREDIENTS NEWS NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | December 2021 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in

CP Kelco launches new pectin solution for salted buttermilk

US-based CP Kelco has announced However, product formulation has
the launch of GENU Pectin YM- its challenges. The heat treatment
SAL 200, an improved stabilising and high salt content preferred
solution for long shelf-life by consumers can cause protein
buttermilk with the saltier taste aggregation, gritty mouthfeel
that consumers prefer. A popular and sediment. New GENU Pectin
staple in India, salted buttermilk is YM-SAL 200 protects and stabilises
a refreshing beverage made with protein over shelf life and tolerates
yogurt, spices and herbs. It has up to 0.8 per cent salt content.
long been recognised for cooling GENU Pectin is sustainably sourced
the body and aiding in digestion, and produced from citrus peels, a
especially after heavy meals. byproduct of the juice industry.

Research attests immuno- ADM makes leading
modulatory efficacy of Arjuna
Natural's ashwagandha extract equity investment

Results from a new human study provide support for in Acies Bio
the immune health capacity attributed to Kerala-based
Arjuna Natural branded high-potency ashwagandha ADM, a US-based player in nutrition and
(Withania somnifera) extract, Shoden. While recent studies agricultural origination and processing, has
demonstrated strong support for ashwagandha’s traditional announced that it is making a leading equity
use in mitigating symptoms of anxiety and stress, and investment in Acies Bio, a Slovenia-based
helping to support natural energy, this latest research biotechnology company specialising in R&D
focused on immunomodulatory effects of the plant. and manufacturing services for developing
According to the study, ashwagandha extract significantly and scaling synthetic biology and precision
improved the immune profile of healthy subjects by fermentation technologies for food, agriculture
modulating the innate and adaptive immune systems. and industrial applications. This investment
Shoden is offered at a very low recommended dose. This will help ADM more quickly advance projects
opens immense opportunities for formulators who can in the field of precision microbial fermentation
utilise this potency in their formulations and product by leveraging Acies Bio’s extensive microbial
variants for better customer relief. Ashwagandha has capabilities and contract manufacturing
been increasing in popularity, especially as more food and services. This strategic partnership will allow
beverage companies incorporate it into products beyond Acies Bio to expand and accelerate the
supplements, such as soft drinks, botanical beverages, and development of its platform technologies, which
energy shots. aim to replace synthetic chemicals and the often
carbon-intensive production currently used in
food and agriculture with microbial, bio-based
products. ADM’s investment in Acies Bio is being
made through ADM Ventures, the company’s
corporate venture capital arm. ADM Ventures
invests in cutting-edge startups with disruptive
technologies across three key areas: human
nutrition, animal nutrition and sustainability.

NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | December 2021 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in R&D NEWS 47

IASST uses tea & banana waste to
develop non-toxic activated carbon

A team of scientists from the for conversion to high-quality IISER Bhopal
Institute of Advanced Study in activated carbon. However, identify
Science and Technology (IASST), conversion to activated carbon polyphenols to
Guwahati has used tea and involves use of strong acid and combat ageing,
banana waste to prepare non- bases, making the product toxic diabetes &
toxic activated carbon, which is and hence unsuitable for most COVID-19
useful for several purposes like uses. So a non-toxic method
industrial pollution control, water of conversion was needed to Indian Institute of Science Education
purification, food and beverage overcome this challenge. The and Research (IISER) Bhopal scientists
processing, and odour removal. team used banana plant extract have recently published a review
The newly developed process as an alternative activating of the biomolecular relationships
avoids usage of any toxic agent agent for the preparation of among COVID-19, ageing, and
for synthesising activated carbon, activated carbon from tea diabetes. The researchers believe
thus making the product cost- wastes. Oxygenated potassium that an ideal therapeutic candidate
effective as well as non-toxic. The compounds contained in the for COVID-19 should be able
processing of tea generates a lot banana plant extract help in to target the pathways that are
of waste, generally in the form common to diabetes, ageing and
of tea dust. This could activating the carbon the SARS-CoV-2 infection. There
be converted prepared from tea waste. are classes of compounds such as
to useful An Indian polyphenols found in plant-based
substances. patent has food – curcumin (found in turmeric),
The structure recently and resveratrol (found in grapes),
of tea was been have been shown to not only slow
favourable granted down the ageing process, but
for this. also possess anti-viral properties.
Some other polyphenols that the
RRI improves food processing researchers have identified as being
outcomes by fine tuning useful for both COVID-19 treatment
fluid viscosity & elasticity and comorbidity conditions such as
diabetes and ageing may include
Scientists from Bengaluru-based Raman Research Institute (RRI) have catechins (present in green tea,
found a new method to improve the transportation of fluids like cocoa and berries), procyanidins
chocolates, lotions, sauces by tuning the viscosity and elasticity of fluids (found in apples, cinnamon and
during materials processing in the food and grape skin), and theaflavin (found
personal care products industries. Usually the in black tea). Natural compounds
transport of fluids through pipelines involves such as polyphenols may affect the
displacement of a more viscous fluid by a less binding of the virus to host receptors
viscous one. This creates instabilities at the and the molecular interactions
interface between the fluids which leads to required for virus replication and
complex patterns of intrusion of the former release, thereby stopping the
into the latter. The complex intrusion pattern infection in its early stages.
results in impurities during the transportation.
Hence instabilities need to be removed to ensure smooth transportation of
fluids during processing. The scientists have found that by changing the
viscosity of the displacing fluid and the concentration-dependent elasticity
of the displaced fluid, the instability can be reduced and the roughness of
the interfacial pattern and the efficiency of displacement can be controlled.

48 ACADERM&IDC NEWS NUFNFOUOFFDOSOSDPSESCPTERCUTMRUM| |DecMemarbcehr 2021 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in

IISc unveils novel Biodegradable packaging
technique to track material using guar gum,
milk adulterants chitosan in offing

Researchers at the Indian Institute of A team of scientists at the Institute of Advanced Study in
Science (IISc), Bengaluru have developed Science and Technology (IASST) in Guwahati has developed an
a low-cost and effective method to detect environmentally friendly, non-toxic, biodegradable polymer
adulterants in milk, by analysing deposition using guar gum and chitosan, both of which are polysaccharides
patterns after evaporation. The team used extracted from guar beans and shells of crab and shrimps. The
the method to test for the presence of urea fabricated guar gum-chitosan film having high water stability,
and water, the most common adulterants, high mechanical strength, and excellent resistance to harsh
but they suggest that such a technique environmental conditions can potentially be used in packaging
can also be extended to other adulterants. applications. Polysaccharide is one of the biopolymers with
In this technique, the researchers looked high potential for use in the synthesis of packaging material.
at evaporative deposition patterns, those However, due to some drawbacks of polysaccharides, such as
that emerge when a liquid mixture like low mechanical properties, high water-solubility, and low barrier
milk completely evaporates, causing properties, they are not preferred. The researchers found that the
volatile components to dissipate, and solids fabricated cross linked film did not dissolve in water even after
or non-volatile components to arrange 240 hours. In addition, the mechanical strength of crosslinked
themselves in distinctive patterns. Milk guar gum-chitosan composite film was higher compared to
with and without water or urea showed general biopolymer.
very different evaporative patterns. In
unadulterated milk, the evaporative pattern
consisted of a central, irregular blob-like
pattern. Water was found to cause distortion
or complete loss of this distinctive pattern,
depending on how much is added. Urea
also completely erases the central pattern;
being a non-volatile component, it does not
evaporate but instead crystallises, starting at
the interior of the milk drop and extending
along the periphery.

ICRISAT-led study reveals millet consumption can beat anaemia

A recent study has shown that as much as 13.2 per cent. Four 1,000 children, adolescents and
regular consumption of millets studies in the review also showed adults, and six different millet
can improve hemoglobin and serum ferritin increasing by an types – finger millet, pearl millet,
serum ferritin levels to reduce average of 54.7 per cent. Ferritin sorghum and a mixture of kodo,
iron deficiency anaemia, which is an iron containing protein in foxtail and little millets. The research
is rising globally. The research, the blood and is a clinical marker also showed that processing can
a meta-analysis of 22 studies on for iron deficiency. The studies significantly increase the amount
humans and eight laboratory in the analysis involved nearly of iron bioavailable. For example,
studies on millet consumption and millet snacks made by expansion
anemia, was undertaken by seven (extrusion) increased bioavailable
organisations across four countries iron 5.4 times, while fermentation,
and was led by the International popping and malting more than
Crops Research Institute for the tripled the iron bioavailable.
Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT). The Germination (sprouting) and
researchers found that millets decortication (dehulling) more than
increased hemoglobin levels by doubled the bioavailable iron.

NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | December 2021 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in SUPPLIER NEWS 49

GEA brings new packaging line for dairy & food powders

German technology group GEA is producers need to be able to 100 possible variants, the GEA
launching a new packaging line adapt their packaging solution in SmartFil M1 can be configured
for dairy and food powders or a versatile way. With more than to suit almost any application
granules. The new GEA SmartFil from dry, fine powders through
M1 has been developed to to coarse granular products. The
provide a wide range of filling new machine offers a nominal
configurations to meet the diverse filling capacity of 120 bags per
necessities of the food, dairy hour or three tonnes per hour at
and pet food industry for low- 25 kg product size. Depending
capacity applications. Companies on the product being packaged,
operating in emerging markets, the packaging system features
low volume producers and pilot configurable product metering
plants need such a system, which options, including vertical auger
offers a compact and flexible low and horizontal vibratory feeder. An
rate packing process to meet their optional deaeration probe may be
special needs. Likewise, with their added for improved consolidation
diverse portfolios, raw material of the product if required.

Tetra Pak inks pact with LD Food to deploy
Poka for zero food waste
EnWave’s REV
Switzerland-based Tetra Pak and Canadian firm Poka have
dehydration tech
launched a new strategic collaboration that brings together the
Canadian-firm EnWave Corporation has
expertise, technology, and best practices of Tetra Pak, a leader in signed a Technology Evaluation and License
Option Agreement with Gujarat-based
the food & beverage packaging industry, with the power of Poka, Lalsai Dehy Foods (LD Food) to evaluate the
potential commercial use of the company’s
the most comprehensive connected factory worker platform. Radiant Energy Vacuum (REV) dehydration
technology on a variety of vegetable, herbs,
This collaboration will empower workers in food production with spices and dairy based products in India.
During the term of the agreement, LD Food
the tools and training needed to accelerate zero waste processes will rent a 10kW REV machine for intensive
product development at its processing facility
in food manufacturing plants. It’s the first global and scalable in Mahuva, Gujarat, an agricultural hub for
onion production in India. If commercially
connected workforce viable ingredient and snack products are
developed under the agreement, LD Food
service that Tetra Pak will will look to purchase REV machinery to
commence commercial production at its
roll out as part of its new BRC Global Standard, Gujarat facility. The
company currently has large-scale air-
training and support drying infrastructure installed for its existing
product portfolio that includes a variety of
solution. According onion, garlic, carrots and spice ingredient
products. Utilising REV technology, LD Food is
to the UN Sustainable looking to develop unique commercial scale
prototypes and expand its product offering
Development Goal 12, a for domestic and international markets.

range of entry points are

required for promoting

responsible consumption

and production, and

this can be achieved by

producing more with less, increasing resource efficiency and

promoting sustainable practices. Poka has helped manufacturers

reduce equipment downtime by 5.9 per cent, increase in worker

productivity by 18 per cent and decrease quality issues by 64

per cent. By equipping front line staff with the most up to date

information they need to make fast decisions, manufacturers

can maintain high standards of quality and food safety whilst

minimising waste in the form of product, time, or cost.

50 LET’S TALK FOOD NUFFOODS SPECTRUM | December 2021 | www.nuffoodsspectrum.in

Fixing animal feed deficit
Soyabean meal is India’s most popular animal
feed protein source. It is used throughout prior permission from the Ministry of Environment,
the Indian poultry and egg, dairy, and pork Forest (MoEF) and Climate Change that "Since soya
production sectors. de-oiled and crushed cake (DOC) does not contain
any living modified organism, this Ministry has no
In January 2021, the Indian domestic soyabean concerns and no objection for import of soya cakes

meal prices soared without warning and in recent from an environmental angle".

months they've hit unprecedented highs. August Hailing the government’s decision as historic,
2021 prices are averaging Rs 83,000 per metric the All India Poultry Breeders Association (AIPBA)
tonne (MT), 110 per cent above the government’s thanked the government for supporting the

minimum support price (MSP) of Rs 39,500/MT. livestock industry and taking an initiative to

Earlier in July, soyabean meal prices had peaked at a safeguard 10 crore Indian livestock farmers and
record high of Rs 100,050/MT, averaging Rs 92,500/ 5 crore people who are engaged in the livestock

MT in local markets. Prices quoted in some cases are employment directly or indirectly at the time of

200 per cent above 2020’s prevailing prices. distress caused due to shortage of soya meal / de-

The United States Department of Agriculture oiled cake (DOC) which will ensure that the nation’s
(USDA) Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) New livestock is fed, and in turn feed the citizens milk

Delhi (Post) finds that some markets have charged (dairy), chicken, egg (poultry), fish, shrimp (aqua)

almost $1,400/MT (Rs 104,212) for soybean meal, regularly, at affordable prices.

capitalising on the shortage of feed. High feed The AIPBA pointed out that soya meal / de-oiled
costs are being passed onto Indian consumers cake will be imported under Chapter 23 of customs

in the form of increased domestic poultry prices, rule. Under HSN code 2340020/30 duty will be

reaching $3.50/ kg, and higher egg prices ($0.07 accordingly levied. The seller has to declare that the
per egg). soya meal consignment will be utilised as animal
feed only and not for human consumption. Similarly,
The poultry feed industry has aggressively

petitioned the Government of India for relief, the importing CHA has to take declaration from

seeking authorisation to import soyabean meal the importer that the use of the consignment is for
derived from genetically engineered (GE) soyabeans. animal feed use and not for human food.
Realising the situation and to fulfil the needs of the
As of now India has only approved the GM

industry’s requirement, the GoI, for the first time, Cotton and is awaiting the government’s approval

has relaxed the rules for import of crushed and for Bt Brinjal that has enormous potential to
de-oiled Genetically Modified (GM) soya cake (Non- benefit both farmers and consumers. Bt Brinjal had

living organism only) in August 2021. already received the green signal from the Genetic

To ensure that the import quantity of 12 lakh Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) in its

metric tonne is not breached, strict monitoring will 97th meeting held on October 14, 2009 for the
be carried out by Central Board of Indirect Taxes and commercial release.

Customs (CBIC) through the customs authorities at Now, by allowing the import of soya meal and

Nhava Sheva port and LCS Petrapole, till October DOC, the Government of India has realised the

31, 2021 or until further orders, whichever is earlier. importance of GM/GE crops. The farmers of the
On September 13, 2021, the Ministry of Commerce country can, soon, hope to see the commercial

and Industry has clarified that all GE-soyabean meal release of Bt Brinjal which will be a very important

consignments must arrive to India prior to January event for the country and the world, alike.
31, 2022, with a bill of lading or lorry receipt date
issued on or before October 31, 2021. Narayan Kulkarni
Editor

The said relaxation comes after clarification and [email protected]