Japanese Delegation Explores Food Processing Collaboration with NIFTEM-K

On April 22, 2024, a delegation comprising Ms. Masami Oota, First Secretary, and Mr. Shun Hosaka, Second Secretary from the Embassy of Japan, along with representatives from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) including Ms. Kato Maria, and Ms. Inagaki Yukari, visited NIFTEM-K. Their purpose was to foster collaboration between NIFTEM-K and Japanese universities in the realm of food processing.

During the meeting, chaired by Dr. Harinder Singh Oberoi, Director of NIFTEM-K, the focus was on enhancing participation and exploring avenues for joint research and academic endeavors. Dr. Oberoi underscored the significance of rice processing in India, stressing the importance of product diversification and economic viability. He highlighted the necessity for research in new product development, design of small- and medium-scale machinery, and fortification of post-harvest supply chains.

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Discussions revolved around various potential initiatives, including the development of rice-based products such as bread and noodles from rice flour, as well as the design of rice milling and polishing machinery tailored for farmers and Self-Help Groups (SHGs). There was also emphasis on exploring fermented rice beverages like Sake and Amazake, alongside innovative technologies like 3D food printing and scanning. Furthermore, the possibility of collaborative efforts in promoting food processing and entrepreneurship in rural areas through NIFTEM’s Village Adoption Program was explored.

The Japanese delegates were given a tour of NIFTEM’s pilot plants, Centre of Excellence for Food Fortification (CEFF), and Centre for Food Research and Analysis (CFRA). They discussed the potential utilization of NIFTEM’s facilities for pilot-scale production, training programs, and the development of new food products. Additionally, avenues for technology transfer to Japanese industries and joint intellectual property rights (IPR) sharing were deliberated upon.