ICAR-CIFT Promotes Entrepreneurship on Millet and Fish-Based Food Products

In a bid to foster entrepreneurship and underscore the nutritional significance of millets, ICAR-CIFT (Central Institute of Fisheries Technology), headquartered in Kochi, unveiled a diverse range of food products crafted from millets and fish several months ago. The lineup includes gluten-free cookies, fishMi sausages, millet-based batter formulations, and millet muffins fortified with Collagen peptide. Spearheaded by Dr. J Bindu, Dr. Remya S, Dr. Elavarasan K, Dr. CO Mohan,  Dr. P Viji, and Dr. Sarika K, scientists from the fish processing division at CIFT, these products represent a fusion of innovation and nutrition. The addition of fish protein to millet-based food items significantly enhances their nutritional value. Fish is a rich source of high-quality protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential minerals, making these food products particularly beneficial for children, pregnant women, and the elderly.

With a grant from Department of Science and Technology under Science heritage and Research Initiative (SHRI) the work has been initiated on Millets-Based Novel Ready to Eat (RTE) Smart Functional Foods Fortified with Fish Protein and Lipid for Entrepreneurship Development in the State of Kerala,' ICAR-CIFT conducted a one-day workshop on entrepreneurship focusing on aquamillets (fish and millet-based products) was held 24 April 2024 today. Over the span of three years, the project seeks to develop innovative ready-to-eat smart functional foods that combine the nutritional benefits of millets with the richness of fish protein and lipid. Ultimately, the project aims to empower local entrepreneurs, enhance food security, and contribute to the economic development of Kerala through the promotion of millet-based entrepreneurship and the production of value-added food items fortified with fish protein.

The workshop, attended by 19 participants comprising entrepreneurs and farmers from various districts of Kerala, showcased the potential of millet-based RTE smart functional foods fortified with fish protein and lipid to address nutritional deficiencies and stimulate economic growth. Moreover, practical sessions and product presentations during the workshop, including a baking class led by S Krishnadas from Foodastha, highlighted the practical aspects of millet  based product development and entrepreneurship.

Dr. George Ninan, Director of ICAR-CIFT, emphasized the opportunities in the millet entrepreneurship sector and encouraged interested participants to leverage the institution's Agri Business Incubation Center (ABI). The Zonal Technology Management - Agribusiness Incubation (ZTM-ABI) Centre at ICAR-CIFT provides comprehensive support to budding entrepreneurs, including technical consultancy, infrastructure facilities, expert guidance, and training to establish sustainable enterprises.

Beyond stimulating entrepreneurship, the production of these food items and the associated workshop and project offer numerous benefits. They not only create employment opportunities within local communities but also contribute to the economic development of the country while ensuring food security. This initiative signifies a significant step towards harnessing the potential of millets and fish for both nutritional and economic advancement.