Odisha-based Balgopal Food Products has been instrumental in revolutionizing India's edible oil market, particularly the refined rice bran oil market. Focused on reducing import reliance, the company is contributing towards meeting the growing domestic demand while also emphasizing health and sustainability. Playing an active role in boosting India's edible oil output, Balgopal Food Products actively invests in advanced processes and sustainable agriculture practices. Given that around 55 to 60 percent of India’s edible oil is imported, the company has positioned itself as a leading domestic rice bran edible oil producer over the last two decades.
Balgopal Food Products remains dedicated to delivering high-quality edible oil rich in antioxidants, vitamins A and D, and Oryzanol, known for its cholesterol-lowering properties and heart health benefits. The company also manufactures fortified rice kernels and parboiled rice for human consumption along with raw materials like de-oiled rice bran, rice bran fatty, wax, gums, and rice-bran lecithin, crucial for the feed industry.
Overcoming Challenges with Innovation & Integrity
In the early 2000s, Odisha emerged as a prominent rice manufacturing hub but with limited awareness about by-products like rice bran, which was primarily used as an animal feed ingredient. Late Mohan Lal Agrawal and Ravindra Kumar Agrawal, the founders of Balgopal Food Products who were experienced in bran trading, saw an opportunity here.
Despite the uncertainties in the solvent extraction industry, when only two or three solvent plants were operational in Odisha and many struggled to endure, they embarked on an entrepreneurial journey. Beginning with a 100 TPD solvent extraction plant in 2005, the founders later upgraded to a 50 TDP refinery plant in 2007, producing refined rice bran oil under the brand name ‘Om Gold’. Through consistent efforts over the past 15 years, the company has expanded its production capacity to 500 tons per day along with the 120 tons per day Refinery Unit.
Leading the Way in Sustainable Manufacturing
At its core, Balgopal Food Products prioritizes sustainability, employing environmentally conscious technologies such as zero-discharge solvent extraction and enzymatic degumming. This not only reduces ecological impact but also enhances the nutritional quality of the company’s products. “Enzymatic degumming, along with low-temperature deodorization, ensures the production of trans-fat-free oil”, adds Gopal Agrawal, Executive Director at Balgopal Food Products. By adopting waste reduction practices and diligently monitoring resource consumption, the company has set a standard for sustainable manufacturing. Besides, Balgopal Food Products relies on solar and biomass-generated power, showcasing its commitment to renewable energy sources.
We aim to promote global wellbeing through innovative products & services, fostering harmony, health, & happiness while championing sustainability & efficiency by 2030
Setting Standards for Procurement & Production
Being ranked as the 3rd largest processors of Rice Bran as per Solvent Extractors’ Association of India for 2022-23, the company's success is attributed to its meticulous approach to sourcing and production. With a focus on integrity and holistic business processes, Balgopal Food Products ensures top-quality raw material procurement for product consistency. The company procures rice-bran totaling 500 MTPD through a strong network of over 500 rice millers across Odisha, West Bengal, and Chhattisgarh. “We ensure fair pricing through certified lab testing, guaranteeing transparency and contributing to farmers’ economic wellbeing”, adds Girdhar Agrawal, Executive Director.
While continuing to ensure reliability in its dealings with stakeholders, Balgopal Food Products is committed to meeting the rising demand for plant-based products. “As the leading rice bran oil manufacturer in Odisha, we aim to promote global wellbeing through innovative products and services, fostering harmony, health, and happiness while championing sustainability and efficiency by 2030”, concludes Ravindra Kumar Agrawal, Managing Director.