India’s frozen food industry has registered a significant growth in recent years but it still is in a nascent stage. The use of technology is propelling this growth, now at 13-14% every year, and will help the industry achieve its potential.
“Changing consumer preferences play a significant role in driving the demand for frozen foods,” says Haresh Karamchandani, MD & Group CEO, HyFun Foods. “Urbanisation and shifting lifestyles have led to an increased emphasis on convenience and nutrition among consumers, particularly the younger demographic and working individuals. This shift has created a burgeoning market for frozen foods, which offer both convenience and nutritional benefits, aligning with the evolving dietary habits of urban consumers.”
Modern freezing techniques is one such technology. It not only preserves the quality and freshness of food but also locks in essential nutrients, ensuring that consumers receive products with high nutritional value. Advanced freezing technology also plays a critical role in fighting the problem of food wastage.“By freezing perishable items, the industry effectively extends their shelf life, reducing wastage and optimising the utilisation of agricultural resources,” says Karamchandani.
Mohit Marwaha, AVP, Yummiez, Godrej Tyson Foods, says the frozen food industry has undergone a significant transformation, shedding its niche image and blossoming into a mainstream food source.“A shining example of this growth is the frozen ready-to-cook segment, currently a sizable Rs 3,500 crore category with a 15% year-on-year growth, evidently highlighting the increasing demand for convenient and flavourful meal solutions. Today, it boasts a wide range of products catering to the diverse palates and fast-paced lives of modern India. The frozen foods category in India has a penetration rate of less than 5%, indicating ample room for expansion,” adds Marwaha.
News Courtesy: Economictimes