INDIA – Nestlé India has launched a range of Nestlé a+ Masala Millet-based porridges that are tasty and nutritious, as the company explores opportunities to provide consumers with more diverse food choices that incorporate different types of ancient grain.
According to Nestle, the a+ Masala millet porridges are tailored to local nutritional needs and tastes and are made with a blend of locally sourced ingredients including bajra (pearl millet), barley, vegetables, and a variety of 10 spices.
They come in two delicious variants that can be prepared in just 2 minutes: Tangy Tomato and Veggie Masala. Both flavors are high in fiber, free of preservatives, and contain 30% fewer calories compared to commonly consumed cereal-based breakfast recipes.
India is one of the largest millet producers in the world, accounting for 20% of global millet production.
Nestlé India’s initiatives to promote millets highlight its commitment to promoting sustainable and diverse food options while supporting farmers and local communities.
As the Company moves forward with its millet-focused strategy, it is poised to significantly impact the food industry and food options for consumers
The products were initially developed by a team of Nestlé employees at the company’s R+D Accelerator, located at the research and development center in Manesar, India.
The accelerator acts as a regional platform for students, start-ups, and employees to go from idea to shop test in only a few months by leveraging Nestlé’s extensive food and beverage innovation expertise and infrastructure.
Jagdeep Marahar, Head of Nestlé’s R&D center in Manesar, India said: “Millets are traditional grains known for their high nutritional value and their potential sustainability benefits.”
He noted that Nestle is exploring innovation opportunities with start-ups while partnering with local research institutions to encourage the utilization of millet in different types of food and beverage products.
Commenting on the faster adoption of millets, Mr. Suresh Narayanan, Chairman and Managing Director, of India said that millets have been associated with India’s agricultural heritage.
According to him, with 2023 identified as the International Year of Millets, it is only appropriate that it is brought to the forefront with increased awareness and suitable products.
“I am delighted to announce our ambition to incorporate millets into relevant product categories. We have already introduced millets into some of our products and the launch of Nestlé a+ Masala Millet is another step in that direction.”
The new porridges carry an endorsement logo from the Indian Institute of Millets Research (IIMR) on-pack.
Recognizing the potential of millets, Nestlé R&D Centre India Private Limited, Manesar (a subsidiary of Nestlé S.A and a part of Nestlé’s global R&D network) signed an MOU with Nutrihub-IIMR to collaborate in areas such as millet processing, health, and nutrition benefits, millet sustainable regenerative agriculture practices and start-up collaborations.
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