Indian Agricultural Commodity Processing

Rahul Kamath, an experienced professional with expertise in the processing of agricultural commodities in India, is well-versed in the dynamic nature of the industry. His proficiency lies in effectively addressing the intricate trends and challenges faced by food manufacturers in the country. In a recent conversation with Thiruamuthan (Correspondent, Industry Outlook) Rahul delved into industry-specific quality control measures and certifications. Additionally, he highlighted essential sustainability practices, technological innovations within the cashew manufacturing sector, initiatives supporting local farmers, and endeavours promoting sustainable agricultural practices in India and many other African countries. Below are the excerpts from the exclusive interview –

What industry-specific quality control measures and certifications are crucial for ensuring the safety of agricultural commodities like cashews, coffee beans, edible oil, almonds, and dry fruits?

Ensuring the safety and quality of agricultural commodities like cashews, coffee beans, edible oil, almonds, and dry fruits involves industry-specific quality control measures and certifications. In cashew processing, adherence to ISO 22000 and HACCP standards is crucial for maintaining hygiene and ensuring the final product meets accepted safety standards, especially in larger facilities. The coffee bean industry, while requiring hygiene standards, may focus on certifications such as UTZ or Rainforest Alliance to address sustainability and social responsibility concerns. Edible oil production, being directly consumed, demands stringent measures, with certifications like ISO 22000, and HACCP playing a vital role in ensuring safety throughout processing and packaging. For almonds, certifications like Global G.A.P. and HACCP are important for safe agricultural practices, while ISO 22000 and HACCP are relevant for maintaining food safety standards in dry fruit processing.

Could you outline key sustainability practices that are becoming prevalent within the agricultural commodity processing and export sector in India?

In the agricultural commodity processing and export sector in India, key sustainability practices are emerging to address challenges such as post-harvest damage and underutilization of by-products. To tackle post-harvest losses, there is a growing emphasis on adopting efficient treatment plans, particularly in crops like cashews, where exploration of mechanical or artificial drying processes is underway to salvage yields during challenging weather conditions. Additionally, initiatives focusing on the underutilization of by-products, such as cashew apples, are gaining traction. Efforts to maximize the use of cashew apples, rich in vitamin C and fiber, not only contribute to reducing waste but also aim to boost farmer income sustainably. Furthermore, in the broader context of Indian agriculture, there is a push for improved infrastructure, including cold storage facilities, to mitigate market rate uncertainty and ensure the preservation of agricultural products.

Over the past 15 years, the cashew processing industry has shifted from manual to highly mechanized methods, with specialized machines for tasks like shelling and blanching. This technological transformation has significantly enhanced efficiency, scalability, and overall product quality, minimizing breakage and contamination. Technological evolution in cashew processing has boosted labor efficiency, reduced mandays, and shifted the process to be predominantly mechanical, minimizing human involvement. These advancements not only enhance efficiency but also contribute to sustainability by allowing flexible production adjustments based on demand. Unlike the past, where manpower constraints limited production adjustments, the current mechanized approach allows for more responsive and adaptable changes, fostering a more sustainable and efficient cashew processing industry.

In the context of the cashew manufacturing industry, what initiatives are supporting local farmers and promoting sustainable agricultural practices in India?

The key approach to supporting local farmers and promoting sustainable agriculture in India's cashew manufacturing industry entails adopting artificial and mechanical drying methods, as specified in the proposal. The strategy aims to improve cashew quality and ensure a stable market for growers, especially crucial during the concentrated harvest season in April, May, and June. Recognizing the unique annual crop cycle, efficient post-harvest processing is emphasized. To counter post-harvest price drops due to bulk cashew availability, the proposal suggests an on-farm drying concept. This supports farmers by enabling prompt processing and storage until September and October, aligning with higher demand and prices during festivals.

From an industry perspective, what are the prominent trends and challenges impacting food manufacturers of agricultural commodities in India today?

Food manufacturers in India face challenges in maintaining consistent high-quality products, particularly in the agricultural sector, where seasonal variations affect raw material quality. Adhering to global standards and addressing the inherent variability in agricultural commodities is essential for establishing and sustaining a brand that meets consumer expectations for consistent quality and satisfaction. Food manufacturers in India also confront supply chain challenges, requiring efficient storage and transportation infrastructure to manage the impact of seasonal fluctuations. Staying informed about trends in sustainable and ethical sourcing, as well as meeting the demands of a growing health conscious consumer base, adds complexity to the industry.

How can dry fruit and cashew manufacturers boost their market presence and attract health-conscious consumers?

In response to the heightened health consciousness observed during the COVID-19 pandemic, dry fruit, and cashew manufacturers enhance their market presence by strategically promoting the nutritional benefits of their products. They prioritize clear communication of immune-boosting properties and overall health advantages, particularly in areas such as heart health, diabetes, and reproductive health, through informative packaging and online platforms. Targeted advertising and promotions focused on the health benefits, leveraging social media and health-related publications, effectively reach and resonate with the health conscious consumer base. Diversifying product offerings, introducing innovative variants, and incorporating health friendly features such as low-sugar or organic options attract a broader audience. To enhance credibility and visibility, dry fruit and cashew manufacturers should prioritize transparent sourcing and collaborate with health influencers. Aligning marketing strategies with health-conscious trends and ongoing innovation establishes them as prominent players in the health-focused consumer market.