(GIST OF KURUKSHETRA) Food Processing of Horticultural Crops



(GIST OF KURUKSHETRA) Food Processing of Horticultural Crops

(FEBRUARY-2025)

Food Processing of Horticultural Crops



Introduction

The significance of food processing is paramount in maintaining food and nutrition security, particularly in a nation like India, which boasts a vast and varied populace. This process entails the transformation of raw food into edible or long-lasting forms, safeguarding preservation, safety, and improved nutritional benefits.

Food Processing in India

  • India ranks as the second-largest producer of fruits and vegetables worldwide but contends with substantial post-harvest losses due to the limited shelf life of these goods.

Research indicates losses ranging from:

  • 6.7-15.8% for fruits

  • 4.5-12.4% for vegetables

  • Such losses lead to significant economic disadvantages and transpire at numerous stages:

  • Storage

  • Packaging

  • Transportation

  • Marketing

  • Food processing is crucial to mitigate these losses, enhance nutrient retention, and ensure food quality.

Global Market and Potential

  • The international market for fruit and vegetable ingredients is growing, with developed countries importing a considerable portion of their food. 

  • India's food processing sector is on the rise, contributing to exports and job creation.

  • Nevertheless, processing levels in India lag behind global benchmarks.

  • There exists tremendous potential for India to elevate its share in the global processed food market, especially in high-value and value-added goods.

Emerging Technologies in Food Processing

  • Cutting-edge technologies are transforming food processing, boosting efficiency, quality, and safety.

  • Non-Thermal Technologies:

  • High-Pressure Processing (HPP): Preserves food without sacrificing nutritional and sensory characteristics. 

  • Cold Plasma Technology: Decreases microbial contamination while upholding food quality.

  • Pulsed Electric Field (PEF) Technology: Improves shelf life and nutrient preservation.

  • These technologies present benefits such as:

  • Extended shelf life

  • Enhanced microbial control

  • Minimal effects on nutritional value

Food Fortification: Addressing Micronutrient Deficiencies

  • Food fortification stands as a pivotal approach to address micronutrient deficiencies in India.

  • This entails the addition of essential vitamins and minerals to staple food items.

  • Especially pertinent in India, where deficiencies in iron, iodine, and vitamin A are widespread.

Role of Technology in Food Processing

Government Initiatives Supporting Food Processing

  • The Indian government has initiated diverse schemes and policies to bolster the food processing sector. 

  • Pradhan Mantri Kisan SAMPADA Yojana (PMKSY):

  • Concentrates on modern infrastructure, financial support, and sector formalization.

  • PM Formalisation of Micro Food Processing Enterprises (PMFME) Scheme

  • Aids small food processing businesses with financing and training.

Way Forward:

  • The food processing industry in India harbors significant growth potential. 

  • Enhanced collaboration among research institutions, industry, and government to propel innovation.

  • Stimulating investment in modern food processing technologies.

  • Expanding cold storage and logistics facilities to diminish post-harvest losses.

  • Fostering exports of processed food goods to increase India's global market presence.

Conclusion

  • Food processing is essential for decreasing post-harvest losses, ensuring food security, and stimulating economic growth.

  • With technological progress, governmental support, and increased investments, India can strengthen its food processing sector and aspire to become a global front-runner in the industry.

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Courtesy: Kurukshetra