APEDA ships 12 MT of fortified rice kernels to Costa Rica, boosting India’s nutrition mission and agri-export footprint
In a landmark boost to India’s nutrition-focused agri-exports, the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) has facilitated the first-ever export consignment of 12 metric tonnes of Fortified Rice Kernel (FRK) from Chhattisgarh to Costa Rica. The shipment signifies India’s growing role in delivering scientifically fortified nutrition solutions to the global market.
The initiative supports Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of “Kuposhan Mukt Bharat” (Malnutrition-Free India), driven nationwide under Poshan Abhiyan, where the Food Corporation of India (FCI) distributes fortified rice to strengthen domestic nutrition outcomes.
Chhattisgarh Steps into the Global Nutrition Supply Chain
Chhattisgarh has been steadily promoting the export of rice and fortified variants, giving farmers, millers, and exporters international visibility. With this milestone, the state cements its place in the global supply chain for nutrition-enriched food products.
Leadership Speaks
Congratulating stakeholders, APEDA Chairman Abhishek Dev said the export not only strengthens India’s agri-export basket but showcases the nation’s commitment to solving malnutrition through science-backed, globally recognized food solutions. He assured continued support to exporters scaling fortified and value-added products.
Mukesh Jain, President of The Rice Exporters Association of Chhattisgarh (TREA-CG), welcomed APEDA’s assistance and confirmed that new export destinations are already being planned. He urged ongoing support to expand agricultural exports from the State.
What Makes FRK Special?
Fortified Rice Kernel is produced by blending rice flour with micronutrients including:
✅ Iron
✅ Folic Acid
✅ Vitamin B12
The blend is extruded into rice-like grains and mixed with regular rice at regulated ratios, enhancing the nutritional value of a daily staple, especially for vulnerable groups.
A Science-Driven Milestone for India
The successful flag-off highlights:
- India’s technological capability in food fortification
- Strengthened global food security efforts
- Expanding value-added agri-exports
Most importantly, it reflects seamless collaboration between APEDA, the Government of Chhattisgarh, and the private sector, positioning India as a reliable supplier of nutritious, high-quality food products worldwide.
As shipments to more countries are lined up, this moment marks a proud leap for India’s agricultural export ecosystem.
Source: PIB
