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Mfg Food
Manufacturing Botenz enters India with nut powder range, targeting 1.8 lakh consumers
Botenz, a food innovation company backed by investors from Montenegro, Bulgaria, Israel and Russia, is entering India with a nut powder range covering peanut, almond, cashew, pistachio and sesame. The company targets approximately 1.8 lakh consumers and 1,200-1,500 outlets across India within five years, with production scale-up planned.
Manufacturing Preferred Popcorn to expand premium variants as India takes to Gourmet popcorn
Preferred Popcorn is expanding into premium mushroom popcorn variants in India as gourmet popcorn demand grows. The company supplies locally grown kernels from 16 acres across nine states through Chennai-based Gourmet Popcornica, after a 55 per cent import duty made imported kernels costly.
Manufacturing From Sugar Mill to Biorefinery: India Hits 20% Ethanol Blending Five Years Early
India achieved 20% ethanol blending in petrol in 2025 — five years ahead of target — according to The Hindu BusinessLine. Sugar mills are now repositioning as integrated biorefineries, with government policy backing multi-feedstock distilleries and by-product streams including CBG, PDM, PLA and captured CO2. The first cooperative multi-feedstock CBG plant in a sugar-mill ecosystem was inaugurated in Maharashtra in 2025.
Manufacturing Magnum Deploys AI-Equipped Freezers and Glow-in-Dark Lollies to Beat Ice Cream Cost Shocks
The Magnum Ice Cream Company, spun off from Unilever last year, is automating its cold chain with AI-equipped fridges and cutting freezer energy use by 40% since 2010. The world's largest listed ice cream maker is also launching niche products like a glow-in-the-dark lolly as it navigates five years of commodity and energy price volatility.
Manufacturing Akshay Jatia drives Westlife Foodworld toward 500th McDonald's as revenue climbs 12%
Westlife Foodworld, operator of McDonald's in West and South India, is closing in on its 500th restaurant with 482 outlets across 79 cities, while FY27 revenue grew 12% year-on-year to ₹736 crore, according to ETRetail. CEO Akshay Jatia outlines the company's shift from a restaurant-first model to an omnichannel consumer brand as it marks 30 years in India.
Manufacturing The food fortified frontier: Corporate India’s next major FMCG growth engine
Endeva research identified Indian food processors redefining fortification as a strategic growth lever. ShyamaTara Rice Mills and Kaleesuwari Refinery invested in automation, quality control and traceability, making nutrition a competitive differentiator in the FMCG market.
Manufacturing Parag Milk Foods to invest ₹105 crore to double Go Cheese manufacturing capacity by FY28
Parag Milk Foods Ltd. approved a ₹105 crore capital expenditure to double its Go Cheese manufacturing capacity from 60 to 120 metric tonnes per day by FY28. The expansion, funded through internal accruals and debt, aims to meet rising demand for cheese and whey protein products. IMARC Group forecasts India's cheese market will grow from ₹129 billion in 2025 to ₹620 billion by 2034.
Manufacturing Hatsun Agro Product plans ₹1,000 crore capex in FY27 to expand dairy production, retail network
Hatsun Agro Product, India's largest private sector dairy company, plans ₹1,000 crore capex in FY27 for milk procurement, distribution and production facility upgrades. The target is 2.4 crore daily packs within two years, up from 1.84 crore.
Manufacturing Arboreal Bioinnovations Raises ₹230 Crore Series A for Factory Expansion and R&D
Arboreal Bioinnovations, a specialty food and nutraceutical ingredients technology company, has raised ₹230 crore in Series A funding led by EAAA (Edelweiss alternatives arm) with participation from Omnivore and Rainmatter. The company will use the capital to expand manufacturing capacity, strengthen R&D, and accelerate commercialisation of next-generation ingredients including proteins, sweeteners, and fibres.
Manufacturing India Has Ingredients to Become Alternative Protein Manufacturing Hub, Says GFI India MD Sneha Singh
India has immense potential to become a competitive manufacturing hub for alternative proteins, according to Sneha Singh, Managing Director of Good Food Institute (GFI) India. Realising this potential will require sustained public and private investment in research and infrastructure. India can leverage its large agricultural base, competitive manufacturing costs, and skilled workforce to become a leading player in the plant-based smart protein ingredients and end product industry.
Manufacturing Food Products Create Most Jobs Among PLI Sectors with Lowest Investment, Government Data Shows
According to government data shared in Parliament, the production linked incentive (PLI) scheme has generated the most direct jobs in food products, despite relatively low investment. The food sector added nearly 3.3 lakh jobs with Rs 9,200 crore investment, while electronics manufacturing created 1.7 lakh jobs with Rs 20,580 crore. High-skill sectors like solar PV modules and specialty steel created far fewer jobs per rupee invested.
Manufacturing Lindt Easter chocolate sales drop 7.5% by volume after 11.8% price hike triggers demand slump
Swiss chocolate maker Lindt reported a 0.9% revenue decline and a 7.5% drop in chocolate volume sold in the first half of 2026, after implementing an 11.8% groupwide price increase. The company partially reversed the price hike and boosted marketing in some regions to recover volume. Sales fell most sharply in Europe, particularly in the UK, Germany, and Switzerland, while North America, Australia, China, and Japan saw growth.
Manufacturing British Sugar Proposes Closure of Cantley Factory on Norfolk Broads, Putting Over 100 Jobs at Risk
British Sugar has announced plans to close its Cantley sugar factory in Norfolk, potentially affecting over 100 employees. The facility, which produces 130,000 tonnes of sugar annually and underwent an £11m upgrade last year, could shut by February 2027. The company cites low European sugar prices, high energy costs, and declining demand.
Manufacturing Growing wellness: How consumer demand for natural sweeteners is driving innovation in food manufacturing
Consumer demand for natural, clean-label sweeteners is driving innovation in food and beverage manufacturing. The global natural sweeteners market, valued at approximately $24.7 billion in 2023, is projected to reach $45.1 billion by 2033, with Asia-Pacific leading growth. Monk fruit is emerging as a key ingredient, supported by technological advancements in precision fermentation and blending techniques that improve taste and mouthfeel.
Manufacturing Avio Smart Market Stack signs Tripura MoU for freeze-drying plant, targets 1,300 jobs
Avio Smart Market Stack Limited signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Government of Tripura to set up a freeze-drying facility for fruits and vegetables. The project is expected to create 1,300 jobs (500 direct, 800 indirect) and aims to reduce post-harvest losses and strengthen the state's horticulture value chain.
Manufacturing Over 2 Lakh Micro Food Processing Firms Get ₹20,300 Crore Investment Under PMFME Scheme
Food Processing Industries Minister Chirag Paswan announced that over 2 lakh micro enterprises have received credit-linked subsidy under the PMFME scheme since 2020, with a combined investment of ₹20,300 crore and nearly 11 lakh jobs created. The scheme, extended till September 2026, is being considered for a 2.0 version to attract more investments.
Manufacturing CLFMA Partners with GADVASU on ₹5 Lakh Study of Moisture Content in Chicken Sausages
The Compound Livestock Feed Manufacturers Association (CLFMA) of India has signed an MoU with Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University (GADVASU), Ludhiana, to conduct a six-month, ₹5 lakh research project on moisture content in chicken sausages. The study aims to generate scientific evidence supporting industry standards and product quality.
Manufacturing Kerala’s Tax Cut on Low-Alcohol Beverages Could Boost Fruit Wine Manufacturing Output
The Kerala government's tax reduction on low-alcohol beverages is expected to spur fruit wine manufacturing, particularly from cashew apples. Agricultural experts highlight potential for farm income diversification, post-harvest loss reduction, and growth of rural processing enterprises.
Manufacturing ICAR-IISR Signs Spice Technology Licensing Deals on 51st Foundation Day
ICAR-Indian Institute of Spices Research (IISR) marked its 51st foundation day by signing technology licensing agreements for improved spice varieties and value-added products with the State Kudumbashree Mission and Gramin Multi State Agro Cooperative Society Limited, targeting wider adoption among spice growers and food processors.
Manufacturing Milky Mist Invests ₹480 Crore in Capacity Expansion Ahead of IPO, Founder Says
Milky Mist Dairy Food Chairman & Managing Director Satish Kumar T revealed at the businessline MSME Growth Conclave 2026 that the company borrowed ₹480 crore to build capacity when its topline was ₹200 crore and debt was ₹20 crore. The Erode-based dairy processor is heading toward an IPO and owns an integrated cold chain from farm to fork.
Manufacturing KRBL Expands into Staples with India Gate Poha Launch, Targets 100 Tonnes Monthly Volume
KRBL Ltd has launched poha (flattened rice) under its India Gate brand, initially focusing on Delhi NCR, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, and select European markets. The company aims to sell 100 tonnes per month and is considering setting up its own manufacturing unit if monthly volumes reach 1,000 tonnes, according to Vice President Kunal Sharma.
Manufacturing Meghalaya inaugurates largest organic spice processing unit in Northeast India, capacity 10,000 tonnes/year
Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman inaugurated an organic spice processing unit in Bhoirymbong, Meghalaya, with a capacity of 10,000 tonnes per year. The ₹30 crore project, implemented by Meghalaya Basin Management Agency and partners, aims to support 5,500 farmers across 112 villages and boost incomes by up to 50%.
Manufacturing Milma Receives Spice Coast Excellence Award, Reports ₹4,344 Crore Turnover
Kerala Co-operative Milk Marketing Federation (Milma) has been awarded the Spice Coast Excellence Award by The Cochin Chamber of Commerce & Industry and Altacit Global. Milma Chairman K S Mani received the award at the 2026 ceremony. The cooperative reported a turnover of ₹4,344 crore for 2025-26 and has partnered with LuLu Group for global expansion, with plans to enter major e-commerce platforms.
Manufacturing Varanasi to Host 2-Day Wheat Products Promotion Society CEO's Conclave from July 9
The Wheat Products Promotion Society (WPPS) will hold a two-day CEO's conclave in Varanasi from July 9, 2026, themed 'Redefining Wheat Value Chains for a New India'. Over 300 senior industry leaders, flour millers, and food manufacturers are expected to attend. The event will feature the WPPS Awards 2026 recognizing outstanding contributions to the wheat sector.
Manufacturing Lavazza Tabli Compressed Coffee Pucks Eliminate Individual Capsule Packaging in US Launch
Lavazza's Tabli system uses compressed ground coffee pucks instead of individually packaged capsules, reducing packaging waste. The system, protected by 15 patents, launches in the US with a $99.99 bundle shipping in August 2026.
Manufacturing Milma targets ₹10,000 crore turnover by 2030-31, eyes global expansion via Lulu Group partnership
Milma (Kerala Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation) aims to achieve a turnover of ₹10,000 crore by 2030-31, expanding domestic and international market presence through a partnership with Lulu Group. Chairman KS Mani highlighted investment opportunities in Kerala's dairy sector, which imports nearly 50% of its milk requirement. Milma recorded a turnover of ₹4,344 crore in 2025-26 and passes 83% of selling price to farmers.
Manufacturing Protein Products Flood Indian Market, Reshape Diet as Manufacturers Rush New Launches
Protein products are flooding the Indian market as companies infuse protein into everyday foods. The protein powder market is Rs 8,000 crore, with 80% consumption by premium households but middle-class spending rising. Brands like Marico, PepsiCo, Eggoz, Parag Milk Foods, and ITC are launching new products, while spending on protein orders has tripled on Swiggy Instamart. The wider nutrition market is set to become 1.3x in two years.
Manufacturing Udhampur Women's Spice Unit Advances India's Vocal for Local Push
Avilasha Salaria has launched a spice manufacturing unit in Udhampur, Jammu and Kashmir, with support from the Government of India's MIDH scheme. The venture employs eight to ten local women, produces regional specialties like garlic powder and Tikki Masala, and is being hailed as a model for women entrepreneurship under the Vocal for Local initiative.
Manufacturing DSM Fresh Foods and Gohpur Fish Farmer Partner for Assam Aquaculture Project
DSM Fresh Foods Ltd (Zappfresh) signed an MoU with Gohpur Fish Farmer Producer Company Ltd to develop the Assam Aqua Project, a 100-acre freshwater fish farm in Gohpur, Biswanath District, Assam, with a target annual production of 300 tonnes. The project includes processing, cold chain, and distribution infrastructure, and aims to create local employment.
Manufacturing Turning Waste into Taste: Ancient Techniques in Modern Food Processing
Innovative companies like Fermtech and MOA Foodtech are using ancient fermentation techniques to transform food waste into valuable products. This sustainable approach not only reduces waste but also creates new flavors and economic opportunities.
Manufacturing Student-Led Crab Aquaculture Startup Boosts Kerala's Blue Economy
A student-led startup at Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies is pioneering innovations in crab aquaculture. Supported by the Atal Incubation Centre, the venture aims to enhance sustainability and productivity in the sector.
Manufacturing Women-Led Agro-Processing Centre Boosts Yadgir's Economy
A new women-led agro-processing centre in Yadgir, Karnataka, inaugurated by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, aims to process 480 tonnes of groundnuts annually. This initiative is expected to enhance local agricultural value chains and empower women farmers.
Sahyadri Farms Expands into B2C Processed Foods Market
Sahyadri Farms, a leading Farmer Producer Organisation in India, is set to enter the B2C market with processed horticultural products. The company aims for B2C to contribute 30% of its revenue in the next decade.
Manufacturing Rising Costs Challenge Beverage Production Amid Summer Demand
Beverage companies are grappling with increased production costs due to supply chain disruptions and material price hikes. Aluminium can prices have risen by 15%, impacting companies like Coca-Cola and Sleepy Owl. The industry is considering passing these costs onto consumers.
Manufacturing Fortified Rice Brands Launched to Boost Nutrition in UP
Three new fortified rice brands were launched in Uttar Pradesh, aiming to address micronutrient deficiencies. The initiative, supported by TechnoServe, highlights the role of local millers in improving nutrition.
Manufacturing Cargill's Dairy Initiative Boosts Maharashtra's Livestock Sector
Cargill, in collaboration with Syngenta Foundation India and Digital Green India, has launched a ₹2.3 crore Integrated Dairy Development Initiative in Maharashtra. The program aims to improve livestock health and dairy productivity for over 3,000 farmers, utilizing AI-powered advisory services and mobile veterinary vans.
Manufacturing Mother Dairy Launches India's First Degradable Milk Pouch
Mother Dairy has unveiled India's first naturally degradable milk pouch, marking a significant step towards sustainability in the dairy industry. The innovative packaging will initially be used for cow milk in Delhi-NCR.
Manufacturing Panchamrutha Industries Launches Fortified Rice
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Manufacturing Regaal Resources Doubles Maize Processing Capacity in Bihar
Regaal Resources Ltd has doubled its maize processing capacity in Kishanganj, Bihar, with a ₹389 crore investment. The expansion includes new facilities for liquid glucose and Maltodextrin powder, creating 475 jobs.