The 17th edition of Food Ingredients (Fi India) along with the co-located 5th edition of ProPak India by Informa Markets in India commenced at the Bombay Exhibition Centre, Mumbai, witnessing an impressive number of attendees. The Expos brought together top-tier suppliers of food and beverage ingredients and industry experts in research, development, production, and packaging, showcasing a diverse array of novel products and services.

The inauguration ceremony of these co-located B2B platforms was graced by the presence of esteemed dignitaries including Keith Kan, Consul and Senior Trade Commissioner, Consulate General of Canada, Dr. Prabodh Halde, West Zone Chairman, All India Food Processors Association, Nilesh Lele, President, Chamber for Advancement of Small and Medium Businesses (CASMB), Umesh Kamble, President, The Association of Food Scientists and Technologists (India) Mumbai Chapter, and Ajit Singh, President, Health Foods and Dietary Supplements Association (HADSA) among others.

Speaking at the inaugural ceremony, Dr. Nilesh Amritkar, President Designate, Association of Food Scientists and Technologists (India) & Managing Director, Envirocare Labs said, “We're honored to commend Fi India’s remarkable 17-year journey. AFSTI's active engagement with Fi India has fostered vital industry, regulatory, and academic connections. Through this collaboration, we've united experts, regulators, and educators in enriching conferences and initiatives. Sessions, spanning topics from cooking's future to innovative cereal products and plant protein competition, promise valuable insights for AFSTI and its members. Our commitment remains steadfast – ensuring safe, nutritious food for all.”

Emphasising the importance of sustainability in the food and packaging industries, AVPS Chakravarthy, Global Ambassador WPO said, “The synergy between the packaging and food industries drives innovation in both realms. Globally, the packaging industry stands at USD 1.1 trillion, with food packaging comprising around USD 350 billion, projected to rise to USD 550 billion. The focus on sustainable packaging is evident at ProPak India, showcasing pioneering solutions. Packaging's vital role in food preservation and supply chain efficiency is undeniable. The WPO's SAFE FOOD campaign highlights packaging's crucial role in safeguarding food, especially in underdeveloped regions. Sustainability resonates with millennials, shaping choices in both food and packaging. We are dedicated proponents of sustainability, engaging in close collaboration on a global level.”

This year's editions witnessed impressive participation, with over 230 leading exhibitors and more than 1000 renowned brands in Fi India, while ProPak India also saw the participation of 85 exhibitors and over 300 well-known brands. This remarkable response reaffirms the significance and focus of such events in bolstering the respective sectors.

Addressing the opportunities, Yogesh Mudras, Managing Director, Informa Markets in India, at Fi India and ProPak India, said, “Fi India and ProPak India Expos bring together the best minds and innovations from the food ingredients and food packaging industries. These industries are the backbone of the food cycle ensuring that consumers have access to safe, nutritious, and appealing food products.”