CNN Central News & Network–ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: The Good Food Institute India (GFI India), in collaboration with the National Institute of Food Technology, Entrepreneurship and Management, Thanjavur (NIFTEM-T), released a landmark study titled India as a global manufacturing hub for smart protein processing equipment at the 4th Plant Based Foods Summit held on the sidelines of AAHAR 2026. This first-of-its-kind report delivers a comprehensive assessment of India’s current manufacturing capabilities for plant-based smart protein processing equipment, offering strategic recommendations for government, industry, and research institutions to accelerate domestic production and reduce costly import dependence.
The study, led by NIFTEM-T, with valuable contributions from a broad range of academic experts and industry stakeholders in equipment manufacturing, process engineering, and food and agri-processing domains, examines three critical equipment categories at the heart of the plant-based smart protein supply chain: extruders, dryers, and separators. As demand for sustainable protein sources grows, these specialised processing systems are essential for extracting plant protein concentrates and isolates to produce plant-based meat, dairy, eggs, and seafood, among other high-protein plant foods.
According to the report, India imported approximately USD 1.6 billion worth of centrifuges and filtration equipment in 2024–25, while exports stood at just over USD 1 billion, highlighting a significant opportunity to strengthen domestic manufacturing capacity and reduce reliance on foreign suppliers.
The report also highlights technical gaps across key processing technologies such as high-moisture extrusion, drying, and separation systems, which are critical for scaling plant-based meat and other alternative protein products. Addressing these gaps will require investment in shared R&D infrastructure, testing facilities, and technical skill development.
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