India Exports First Consignment of Fortified Rice Kernel (FRK) to Costa Rica

India has exported its first consignment of 12 metric tonnes of Fortified Rice Kernel (FRK) from Chhattisgarh to Costa Rica. The initiative was spearheaded by the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.

Significance of the Export

• Marks a milestone in India’s food fortification efforts and highlights its technological capability in producing value-added, nutrition-rich food products.
• Demonstrates India’s commitment to global food security and nutrition improvement.
• Enhances international recognition for Chhattisgarh’s farmers, millers, and exporters, promoting the state as a hub for fortified rice production.
• Positions India as a reliable supplier of nutritious and high-quality food products in global markets.

About Fortified Rice Kernel (FRK)

• FRK is produced by blending rice flour with micronutrients such as:
  • Iron
  • Folic Acid
  • Vitamin B12
• The fortified mixture is extruded and shaped to resemble rice grains.
• These fortified kernels are then blended with regular rice at a predetermined ratio to boost the nutritional value of the staple.

Broader Context

• The export reflects India’s growing focus on nutrition-sensitive agriculture and value-added food exports.
• It supports the national objective of combating malnutrition through fortified staple foods and strengthens India’s role as a key player in the global nutrition supply chain.

Source: DD