A stellar showcase of seamless industry-academia collaboration to transform the future of food processing
The National Institute of Food Technology Entrepreneurship and Management (NIFTEM-K), in collaboration with the Ind Food and Beverage Association (IFBA), commemorated World Food Day 2023, at the NIFTEM-K Campus. The event, themed “Food for a Better Tomorrow – Building Synergies,” emphasised the significance of food security, sustainable practices, and India’s pivotal role in the global food landscape.
Anita Praveen, Secretary, Ministry of Food Processing Industries, Government of India, said, “We all recognise that food is an elemental necessity. But equally critical is water. So, today’s theme, ‘Water for Food,’ is of paramount importance. Water is life; it’s food in its own right, as all the foods we consume contain a significant water component. It’s essential for the survival of not only humans but also animals, plants, and indeed, the very essence of our planet. It is imperative that we regard this matter with the utmost seriousness and strive to ensure that we do not deplete this invaluable resource. We must ensure that the next generation has enough, and secure the Earth’s survival for future generations.”
Dr. Harinder Singh Oberoi, Director of NIFTEM-K stated, “It’s a great moment for NIFTEM-K to celebrate World Food Day alongside the Ind Food and Beverage Association and other Food Industry Associations. NIFTEM-K is dedicated to collaborating with the Food Industry to develop innovative, healthy, and delicious food products, address food processing and safety concerns, and extend the shelf life of various food products. This collective effort on World Food Day sets a positive tone for strengthening the bond between NIFTEM-K and the Food Industry, ultimately reducing food wastage in the country.”
Adding to the spirit of Public, Private and academic partnership, Deepak Jolly, Chairperson of IFBA, remarked, “This collaborative effort epitomizes the essence of ‘Food for a Better Tomorrow – Building Synergies.’ We take great pride in being part of an event that not only shines a spotlight on India’s dynamic presence in the global food landscape but also underscores our shared dedication to promoting sustainable practices within the F&B sector. Entrepreneurship is a Buzzword in the Indian Food sector. With a number of so many MSMEs and startups starting F&B in India, I am sure NIFTEM-K will become an anchor and a pilot for many such projects of the industry.”
Vision 2047: $1.5 Trillion Contribution of India’s Food Processing Sector” emphasised the rapid growth of the economy with millions of people being pulled out of extreme poverty, rising per capita income and the emergence of a burgeoning middle class. This presents a significant opportunity for the F&B industry to meet the quality nutritious food requirement of an aspiring Indian population. Large companies as well as startups are exuberant about achieving the $1.5 trillion goal for the economy. The session also highlighted the food industry’s importance, especially in light of its