New Delhi: India was the highest milk producer in the world in the year 2021-2022, contributing to 24% of the world’s milk production, according to the data from Food and Agriculture Organization Corporate Statistical Database (FAOSTAT). During the same period, Rajasthan emerged as the highest milk-producing state in the country, contributing to 15.05% of the total milk production, AS per media reports. Here is the list of the top 5 highest milk-producing companies or cooperatives in India mentioned as per their per-day procurement capacity.

1. Amul (Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation Ltd)

With a daily milk procurement of 26.3 million litres, Amul or Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation Ltd. (GCMMF) is India’s biggest milk producer. Amul had a turnover of $ 6.2 billion (Rs 50,000 crore) in 2021-22 which further grew to over $  8.8 billion (Rs 72,000 crore) in the year 2022-2023, as per media reports.

The apex organization has 18 member unions attached to it and it procures milk from 18,600 village milk cooperative societies and 3.64 million milk producer members from 33 districts of Gujarat, according to its website.

GCMMF is the largest exporter of dairy products from India, distributing to 25 different countries. Amul has 26 categories of products including Amul butter, Amul curd, Amul cheese, Amul ghee, Amul beverages and many others.

2. Nandini (Karnataka Milk Federation)

Nandini was founded in 1974 by the government of Karnataka as Karnataka Dairy Development Corporation (KDDC). It had a turnover of $ 2.4 billion (Rs 19,800 crore) in 2021-22 which increased to over $ 3 billion (Rs 24,500 crore) in 2022-23 as per media reports. KDDC markets milk and milk products. Nandini procured over 7.8 million litres of milk per day in 2022 as per recent media reports. Nandini had income from operations of $ 600 million (Rs 4,900 crore) in the year 2021-22 as per media reports.

3. Mother Dairy (National Dairy Development Board)

Incorporated in 1974 Mother Dairy is a wholly-owned subsidiary of the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB). According to Outlook India, Mother Dairy has a daily processing capacity of over 5 million litres of milk per day. Mother Dairy products are available in 100 cities across the country. It markets 3.2 million litres of milk in Delhi, Mumbai, Saurashtra and Hyderabad daily. It also manufactures and markets a wide range of dairy products, most of which are available across the country.

Mother Dairy markets through 1,400 retail stores and 1,000 exclusive stores across India. It had a revenue of over $ 1.5 billion (Rs 12,500 crore) in 2021-22.

4. Dudhsagar Dairy (Mehsana District Cooperative Milk Producers Union Ltd.)

Dudhsagar was incorporated in 1963 in Gujarat India in the Mehsana district. Dudhsagar had a revenue of $ 737 million (Rs 6,028 crore) in the year 2021-22 as per Dairy Newsindia. It had peak milk procurement of 4.5 million litres in the year 2021-22. The products of Dudhsagar are marketed under the brand name Amul / Sagar / Dudhsagar in national and international markets.

5. MILMA (Kerala Co-operative Milk Marketing Federation)

Milma was incorporated in 1980 by the government of Kerala as back in the day, Kerala was dependent on other states for its milk requirement. As per media reports, Milma procured over 1.5 million litres of milk per day in the year 2021-22 and generated a revenue of $ 524 million (Rs 4,300 crore). It markets a wide range of milk and milk products. Milma passes 83% of its revenue to the farmers due to which farmers in Kerala get the highest rate of milk per litre.

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The post-pandemic era has ushered in significant growth in the online food sector and packaged food products. According to a report by IMARC India, the market size for packaged food is projected to reach USD 3.4 billion by 2027. The Indian food processing industry, which represents 32% of the country’s total food market, stands as one of India’s largest sectors, contributing approximately 14% to the manufacturing GDP, 13% to exports, and 6% to total industrial development. By 2025-2026, this sector is expected to be valued at over USD 535 billion.

Dr Suresha, President,  Association of Food Scientists & Technologists India (AFSTI), said, “India’s food industry is witnessing significant growth, with exports increasing nearly sixfold. As the largest producer of millets and milk, India aims to boost milk production from 230 to 300 million metric tons by 2030. Additionally, grain production has surpassed 330 million metric tons, and the country is the second-largest meat producer, emphasizing a focus on expanding exports. The packaging industry, growing nearly sixfold compared to a decade ago, plays a crucial role in supporting this expansion. Government initiatives like Atma Nirbhar Bharat are further fuelling growth in food processing, offering benefits for women-led startups, including no GST for the first five years and additional subsidies. As Bangalore continues to strengthen its position as a hub for food industry R&D, these trends highlight the critical role of both ingredients and packaging in shaping the future of the industry.”

Nilesh Lele, President, Chamber for Advancement of Small and Medium Businesses (CASMB), said “The Agri and Food industry contributes nearly 16% to India’s GDP, valued at approximately USD 450 billion (around INR 30 lakh crore) annually. Dairy alone accounts for about 20% of this sector, with a market size of INR 6 lakh crore, and value-added dairy products such as ghee, cheese, and butter are driving significant growth. India’s milk consumption stands at 292 ml per capita per day, with room for growth as value-added products become more popular. Other key sectors include beverages at INR 2 lakh crore and snacks and bakery each contributing around INR 1 lakh crore. The growth in the packaged and processed food industry is accelerated by technological advancements like extrusion, which has transformed snack production. While India’s packaged food consumption is currently around 7%, there is potential to increase this to 20%, reducing post-harvest losses and extending shelf life, as seen in more developed markets where packaged food consumption reaches up to 80%. As the global population grows, efficient food processing and packaging solutions will be crucial to meeting the increasing demand for food with longer shelf life and better transportability, emphasizing the importance of innovation in this sector.”

Sagar Singh, Joint Director, Chemical Department, Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) under Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution, Government of India, said “Our aim at Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) and the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is to create industry-friendly regulations that enhance operational efficiency. Recent revisions to packaging and labeling regulations at FSSAI, along with our commitment to aligning Indian standards with international benchmarks, are key initiatives. As we work towards revising food packaging standards, we anticipate that the quality of Indian food products will not only meet but potentially surpass global standards in the near future.”

Prasad Balan Iyer, Director, SIES (South Indian Education Society) School of Packaging, said “India has now become the third-largest packaging market globally, surpassing Japan, with the industry exceeding USD 86 billion in value. The global packaging market, valued at over USD 1 trillion, is driven by sectors like e-commerce, food delivery, pharma, and the food industry, particularly in cities like Bangalore and Mumbai. Packaging plays a crucial role in food safety, extending shelf life, and boosting India’s export competitiveness. In 2023, India’s packaged food sector reached a market size of USD 2.8 billion, with projections suggesting it will grow to USD 6.4 billion by 2029. This expansion highlights shifting consumer preferences and the growing demand for convenient, ready-to-eat options in one of the world’s most populous countries. As a key partner of ProPak India, we remain dedicated to promoting sustainable solutions, fostering a circular economy, and preparing skilled professionals to meet the industry’s evolving needs.”

Chakravarthi AVPS, Global Ambassador, World Packaging Organisation, said “India’s ascending economy is poised to receive a significant boost from its food and agriculture sector, which is projected to emerge as a vital contributor. Spearheading this transformation are platforms like FI India and ProPak India, providing a dynamic convergence point for innovators and stakeholders. Notably, India’s packaging industry has already surpassed $85 billion, while globally, it has reached $1.05 trillion, highlighting the critical role of sustainable and customer-centric packaging in shaping the future of food processing and nutrition. The evolution of machinery and processing technologies, which once relied on imports, now thrives with domestic advancements. These developments are crucial for extending shelf life, enhancing food safety, and supporting India’s growth as a key player in global exports.”

Rajeshwar S. Matche, Head and Chief Scientist, Department of Food Packaging Technology, Central Food Technological Research Institute (CSIR), Mysuru, Karnataka, said “Innovative developments in active smart packaging systems and global processing trends are pivotal in shaping the future of the food packaging industry. As sustainability takes center stage, addressing degradation issues becomes essential in creating packaging solutions that are not only effective but also environmentally responsible. Ensuring that packaging meets stringent safety standards for human consumption is paramount. The participation of diverse experts from esteemed institutions like IIT Delhi and IIT Roorkee, along with industry leaders, enriches the conversation and encourage collaboration. Importantly, engaging the student community is vital in bridging the gap between academia and industry, paving the way for future innovations.”

Speaking on the sidelines of Fi India & ProPak India, Yogesh Mudras, Managing Director, Informa Markets in India, said “India’s food processing sector is undergoing a transformation, supported by initiatives like the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana (PMKSY), ensuring efficient farm-to-retail infrastructure. As a global leader in food production, India stands out in spices, producing over 11 million tons in 2022-23. Our diverse agro-climatic conditions allow for the cultivation of cereals, pulses, and vegetables. The rapid growth of the food packaging industry, driven by convenience and sustainability, is evident, as seen in Fi India & ProPak India 2024’s success, showcasing innovation and collaboration.”

“Bangalore remains a pivotal market due to its strong agritech ecosystem and strategic location in South India, making it the perfect hub for driving growth in food processing and packaging.” he further added.

Fi India & ProPak India 2024 are supported by key industry associations such as AFSTI-Mysuru & Bengaluru Chapters (Association of Food Scientists & Technologists India), HADSA (Health Foods and Dietary Supplements Association), CASMB, and IBA  AIFPA (All India Food Processors’ Association), SIES (South Indian Education Society), ASPA (Authentication Solution Providers’ Association), further strengthens the event’s significance and impact within the industry.

The event brought together leading exhibitors including Brenntag Ingredients India Pvt Ltd, IMCD, Synthite Industries Pvt Ltd, K.P. Manish Global Ingredients Pvt Ltd, Novasol Ingredients Pvt Ltd, Azelis (India) Pvt Ltd, Symega Food Ingredients Ltd, Norex Flavours Pvt Ltd, Fillpack Technology, Glatt (India) Engineering Pvt Ltd, Hilda Automation, and Starpac, among others, showcasing the latest innovations and solutions in food and packaging technology.

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Hyderabad has been strategically chosen for this expansion due to its cosmopolitan demographic. The city’s growing awareness and acceptance of chemical-free products make it an ideal location for TOW’s curated offerings. The current launch is in line with the company’s aim to achieve a 100 crore OR 100 stores target by end of 2025.

“Our Hyderabad store is only the first of many to come,” stated Gaurav Manchanda, Founder, Nimida Group. “We believe that health should not be a privilege reserved for the affluent. Our mission is to make our organic and natural groceries accessible and affordable to everyone.  With over 3000 worry-free, wholesome, curated groceries available, we are excited to empower consumers to embrace a healthier and safer lifestyle, free of harmful chemicals.

TOW’s expansion plan includes additional stores not only in Hyderabad but also in key markets such as Bangalore, Mysore, Pune, and other tier 2 and tier 3 cities across India. This strategic plan aims to create a robust network of COCO (company-operated company-owned) and FOFO (franchise-owned franchise-operated) stores, ensuring that the benefits of a chemical-free lifestyle reach an ever-widening audience.

“Our vision is to redefine industry benchmarks for authenticity, accessibility, and affordability,” added Gaurav Manchanda. “Since our launch in 2017, we have been committed to raising awareness about the compromises associated with conventional lifestyle choices. We’re proud to be at the forefront of this transformative movement.”

TOW offers a diverse range of products, including organic-certified, pesticide-free fruits and vegetables, wholesome chemical-free staples, personal care products devoid of parabens and sulphates, health and wellness items, and nutritious snacks—all curated with care for the community and the planet.

Residents of Hyderabad are invited to visit the new store in Pragathi Nagar and explore a unique shopping experience dedicated to worry-free, wholesome, curated groceries. With plans for additional stores in key catchment areas in the coming months, TOW is further solidifying its commitment to making chemical-free living accessible to all.

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In recent years, the coffee market has seen unprecedented diversification, with gourmet and specialty coffee options taking centre stage. This shift is driven by an increasing consumer demand for premium experiences, combining quality, convenience, and craft. Whether it’s a busy professional reaching for a convenient, high-end brew or a coffee enthusiast diving deep into the art of brewing, India’s coffee drinkers are looking for more than just a caffeine fix—they are seeking unique, memorable experiences.

The Godrej Food Trends Report 2024, curated by Godrej Vikhroli Cucina in collaboration with over 190 food experts, chefs, and industry thought leaders, explores these evolving preferences and provides valuable insights into the emerging coffee trends that are expected to dominate the market in the coming year. As coffee continues to rise in prominence, Indian consumers are keen to explore its rich diversity while embracing local traditions and global innovations.

Key Coffee Trends for 2024:

1. Convenient Gourmet & Specialty Coffee Options:
   With 80.8% of GFTR experts forecasting a surge in gourmet and specialty coffee options, the convenience of high-quality brews will now be more accessible than ever. This trend will cater to coffee connoisseurs who are looking for rich, flavourful experiences even amidst their busy schedules.
2. Educational & Experiential Coffee Workshops:
   As coffee culture deepens, so does the thirst for knowledge. 75% of GFTR panellists predict a rise in coffee tasting sessions, brewing techniques, and experiential workshops. These events will immerse enthusiasts in the intricate art of coffee, enhancing both their understanding and appreciation of their favourite brew.

“The future of coffee is bright, fuelled by a growing demand for convenient gourmet options and a thirst for knowledge. I firmly believe that educational and experiential workshops will be a key factor in attracting and engaging coffee enthusiasts. These workshops offer a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the world of coffee, learning about different brewing techniques, tasting profiles, and the rich history behind this beloved beverage. To celebrate International Coffee Day, I’m excited to announce a collaborative coffee workshop with Godrej Vikhroli Cucina and Godrej L’affaire.” says Vineet Jain, Co-founder of Bombay Island Coffee.

• Provenance-Focused Coffee:
  The origin of coffee beans is gaining increasing importance. According to 73.1% of GFTR experts, provenance-focused coffee is expected to rise in popularity, with consumers seeking beans that are sourced with care, offering distinct flavour profiles and sustainable growing practices.
• Premium South Indian Filter Coffee:
  Traditional South Indian filter coffee is experiencing a renaissance. 71.2% of GFTR experts believe that premium and gourmet brands of this classic brew will gain prominence, adding an exotic flair to the coffee market with its rich, robust flavours. Godrej Yummiez Crispy Potato Starz is the perfect snack pairing with south Indian filter coffee!
• Indian-Origin Artisanal Coffee:
  Locally sourced, Indian-origin artisanal coffee is also on the rise, with 80.8% of GFTR panellists predicting that regions like Coorg and Chikmagalur will continue to command attention. These coffees, known for their unique taste and craftsmanship, will be at the forefront of India’s growing coffee culture.

“As we celebrate International Coffee Day, it’s clear that India’s coffee culture has entered a new era—one where craftsmanship and convenience are equally valued. The trends identified in the Godrej Food Trends Report 2024 reflect the evolving tastes of the modern Indian coffee lover, from their growing desire for artisanal, locally sourced coffee to their enthusiasm for learning more about the brewing process. The future of coffee in India is both exciting and promising, blending tradition with innovation,” says Rushina Munshaw Ghildiyal, Managing Director of A Perfect Bite Consulting and Editor of the annual Godrej Food Trends Report.

As International Coffee Day brings the global coffee community together, the Godrej Food Trends Report 2024 serves as a guide to the exciting future of coffee in India. With a focus on both global innovations and regional traditions, the coffee scene in India is set for a dynamic evolution in 2024.

Godrej Food Trends Report 2024 is available for download at www.vikhrolicucina.com.

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With a commitment to delivering clean and preservative-free food, iD Fresh Food new spices are crafted without synthetic additives or chemicals. Adhering to rigorous FSSAI standards, each batch is tested for high-risk pesticide residues and undergoes 20 quality checks from farm to final product. iD Fresh Food guarantees that its spices are free from chemical treatments and adulterants, thus ensuring exceptional quality.

The new iD Fresh Food spices will initially be available in Bangalore retail stores starting this month, with plans for a gradual rollout to other major markets.

Rajat Diwaker – CEO (India) of iD Fresh Food, shared, “Innovation has always been at the core of iD Fresh Food’s products. Our packaging for these spices preserves their freshness, flavour, and aroma for up to 12 months without the need for chemical treatment. To maintain our commitment to transparency and clean labelling, each spice packet includes a QR code that provides access to pesticide test and quality check reports, giving consumers easy access to detailed information about the product’s quality. After dedicating many months to the development of these spices, we are thrilled to enter this new category. Our goal is to capture a significant market share and set a new standard with our clean and natural ingredients.”

Enakshi, Head of New Product Development of iD Fresh Food, emphasized the company’s values, stating, “Our new range of clean label spices embodies the same principles that our customers trust us for—no preservatives, no chemicals, and only natural ingredients. To ensure top quality and taste, we spent months crafting these spices, collaborating with experts and consumers. We maintain purity through strict control over sourcing, processing, quality checks, and packaging. We are confident that by upholding these standards, we will make a notable impact in the spices market and meet the needs of every Indian kitchen sustainably. “

Each spice variant is packaged in a way that extends its shelf life to 12 months without chemical treatments. Given the volatile nature of spices, each iD spice pack includes pouches to preserve freshness, flavor, and aroma. For transparency, every packet features a QR code providing access to pesticide test and quality reports, ensuring consumers can trust the product’s integrity. The 100g packets are designed with five individual 20g pouches, ensuring prolonged freshness and flavour. The price points are as follows: Red Chilli Powder at INR 78, Sambar Powder at INR 100, and Garam Masala at INR 135.

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This thoughtfully designed café brings a premium culinary experience to Bangaloreans with a curated selection of products, including Croissants & Sandwiches, Pull-Apart Bagels & Bagel Toasties, Desserts & Pastries and Celebration Cakes, each crafted by culinary experts of ITC with top-quality ingredients and tailored to the Indian palate. These baked delicacies are served with ITC’s Sunbean Gourmet Coffee, elevating the culinary experience of diners.

Shreyanka Patil, an Indian Cricketer and avid foodie graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. She expressed her delight with the association, “I am glad to be associated with a brand whose products I have tried many times and absolutely love! My favourites are Frangipane Almond Croissant, Dark Fantasy Chocofill Croissant and Trinity Ganache Pastry. I recommend everyone to definitely try these.”

Rohit Bhalla, Food-Tech Business Head at ITC Limited, expressed his enthusiasm about the launch, “This café is more than just a new location; it represents ITC Sunfeast Baked Creations’ commitment to bring the ‘World of Bakery’ to Indian consumers, elevating their experience of the category to global standards. Our Croissants and Pull-Apart Bagels have already garnered great popularity through the delivery channel and the launch of this café will give a fillip to our plans to bring many more exciting innovations in the bakery category. This new café is not just another addition to the city’s dining scene; it is a testament to ITC Sunfeast Baked Creations’ evolving vision and dedication to offering exceptional experiences to its customers and café enthusiasts across the city.”

With a seating capacity of up to 30 guests, the café promises to be the perfect destination for both intimate gatherings and larger celebrations, offering a delightful environment for customers to indulge in ITC Sunfeast Baked Creations’ exclusive range of products.

Looking ahead, ITC Sunfeast Baked Creations plans to expand its bakery café presence in Bangalore with future locations in MG Road and Jayanagar, as well as potential expansion into Chennai. These upcoming locations will continue to build on the brand’s vision of elevating the bakery experience for its customers.

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By working with over 2,000 organic fruit and vegetable farmers and 28,000 agri-commodity producers through registered Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs), bigbasket now offers over 50 types of organically grown fruits and vegetables and more than 100 grocery staples. This collaboration is critical to the company’s expanding organic portfolio.

Over the past financial year, bigbasket’s organic category has seen steady growth, with a 15-17% month-on-month increase in sales. Organic products now account for 22% of its staples sales, while organically grown fruits and vegetables have grown by 50%, contributing 8% of total fresh produce sales.

Commenting on this pricing reform, Seshu Kumar, Chief Buying and Merchandising Officer at bigbasket, said, “The cost difference between organic and conventional products has traditionally been a major hurdle for consumers. By removing this cost disparity, we are removing a key barrier, allowing more people to enjoy the benefits of organic food. This initiative not only benefits our customers but also empowers farmers by expanding the market for their organic produce.”

This pricing shift aligns with bigbasket’s broader sustainability objectives. The company supports its farmers by implementing cutting-edge technologies like geotagging to monitor sowing and harvest schedules, as well as providing weather forecasts and strategies to manage climate-related risks. These measures ensure that farmers can consistently produce high-quality organic crops.

bigbasket has also introduced a Digital Labelling System that enhances traceability by linking every product to its respective farmer. This system tracks the journey of produce from the farm to the customer, guaranteeing transparency and the freshness of each item.

Direct partnerships with farmers and FPOs have driven significant growth, with contributions from these groups rising by over 60% year-on-year. bigbasket’s approach has expanded its supplier network, allowing more marginal farmers to connect with the company’s wide consumer base.

By bridging the price gap between organic and conventional products, bigbasket is driving a consumer shift toward healthier, more sustainable food choices. This new pricing model reflects the company’s ongoing commitment to innovation, sustainability, and the well-being of both farmers and consumers.

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