Fortified Rice Kernels Pilot Plant Unveiled at CSIR-NIIST
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Synopsis
CSIR-NIIST has launched a pilot plant for fortified rice kernels to address hidden hunger and improve nutritional security, particularly for vulnerable groups like children and pregnant women.
Key Takeaways
- Inauguration of FRK pilot plant at CSIR-NIIST.
- Focus on nutritional needs of children and pregnant women.
- Continuous production of micronutrient-enriched rice.
- Capacity to produce 30-50 kg of FRK per hour.
- Serves as a hub for training and innovation.
Thiruvananthapuram, April 25 (NationPress) In a significant advancement in the fight against hidden hunger and the enhancement of nutritional security, the CSIR-National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology (CSIR-NIIST) Research Council, alongside Bharat Biotech International Chairperson Dr. Krishna M. Ella, inaugurated a pilot plant for fortified rice kernels (FRK) here on Friday.
This cutting-edge FRK pilot plant has been created to meet the nutritional requirements of vulnerable demographic groups, particularly children and pregnant women.
Leveraging technology developed internally at CSIR-NIIST, the facility allows for the continuous production of fortified rice kernels infused with vital micronutrients such as vitamins and minerals.
The FRK manufacturing process consists of mixing micronutrients with rice flour and extruding the blend into kernels that closely resemble natural rice.
The system features advanced drying and cooling conveyors to effectively remove moisture, ensuring the kernels can be used and distributed immediately.
The plant has the capacity to produce between 30 to 50 kg of FRK each hour, which can be effortlessly blended with polished rice for extensive public distribution.
Dr. Ella commended the institute’s initiatives to create practical, scalable solutions within the fields of food and health sciences.
"This pilot plant represents a crucial innovation that combines science with social responsibility. It promises to enhance public health results nationally, especially in regions that are underserved," he stated.
CSIR-NIIST Director, Dr. C. Anandharamakrishnan, noted that this pilot plant will function not only as a production facility but also as a training and innovation hub for start-ups, food safety experts, public health professionals, and students.
"It showcases our dedication to developing technologies that are both socially significant and widely accessible," he remarked.
The FRK pilot plant will be available for research, development, product testing, and hands-on training, thereby promoting innovation and encouraging entrepreneurial activities in the sphere of rice fortification.
CSIR-NIIST, a prominent laboratory under the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), remains at the forefront of converting interdisciplinary science into sustainable technologies that contribute to national development.
