(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.