GCC Chocolate Industry Trends

The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region continues to position itself as one of the fastest-evolving markets for packaged beverages, with bottled water standing at the forefront of this transformation. The GCC bottled water market size has expanded steadily in recent years, supported by a strong shift toward health-driven consumption, improved hydration awareness, and evolving lifestyle patterns across the member countries.

India’s pet sector has experienced a remarkable transformation, driven by urbanization, evolving lifestyles, and a stronger emotional bond between people and their companion animals. What was once a niche trend among a few urban families has now become a widespread practice across Indian households, where pets are regarded as integral members of the family.

Shrimp is one of the world’s most precious natural spices, derived from the dried red stigmas of the Crocus sativus flower. Each bloom yields only a few delicate stigmas, which must be carefully hand-harvested, dried, and processed to preserve their vibrant color, distinctive aroma, and rich flavor. The spice’s deep golden-yellow hue, bitter-sweet taste, and unique fragrance are primarily attributed to its key bioactive compounds like crocin, picrocrocin, and safranal.

The Australian craft beer industry has emerged as a significant segment of the broader alcoholic beverages market driven by evolving consumer preferences, rising disposable incomes, and a growing appreciation for artisanal and premium products. Over the past decade, the market has witnessed substantial expansion with craft breweries increasingly occupying a distinct niche in the highly competitive beer sector.

India is witnessing a profound transformation in how its citizens approach health and wellness. The nutritional supplements market of the country has evolved from a niche segment into a mainstream industry serving millions of health-conscious consumers.

Sea salt is a natural mineral product obtained through the solar evaporation of seawater, followed by harvesting, washing, drying, grading, and packaging. Unlike refined table salt, which undergoes heavy chemical processing, sea salt production relies primarily on solar energy and natural crystallization, allowing it to retain trace minerals such as magnesium, calcium, and potassium that contribute to its distinct taste and nutritional value.

Saffron is one of the world’s most precious natural spices, derived from the dried red stigmas of the Crocus sativus flower. Each bloom yields only a few delicate stigmas, which must be carefully hand-harvested, dried, and processed to preserve their vibrant color, distinctive aroma, and rich flavor.

The India edible oil market stands as one of the most dynamic sectors within the country's consumer goods landscape. As households increasingly prioritize quality, health, and convenience, demand for diverse oil varieties continues to surge. The transformation from traditional purchasing habits to modern retail experiences reflects broader shifts in consumer awareness and lifestyle choices.

India's organic food industry stands at the intersection of health consciousness, agricultural innovation, and sustainable practices. As consumers increasingly prioritize chemical-free nutrition and environmental sustainability, the sector faces transformative opportunities alongside significant operational challenges shaped by evolving dietary preferences, technology adoption in agriculture, and regulatory frameworks that collectively define market dynamics.

Japan’s gluten-free foods and drinks market has evolved into a vibrant segment of the country’s growing health and wellness culture. Once catering mainly to individuals with celiac disease or gluten intolerance, gluten-free products now appeal to a broader demographic pursuing balanced, wellness-oriented lifestyles.

The GCC coconut water market is experiencing remarkable momentum as consumer preferences shift decisively toward natural hydration solutions and functional beverages. This transformation is propelled by heightened health consciousness, expanding fitness culture, and growing awareness of the nutritional benefits associated with coconut-based drinks.

The Saudi Arabia online grocery market is experiencing transformative growth, driven by widespread digital adoption, evolving consumer preferences, and strategic government initiatives aligned with Vision 2030. As one of the fastest-growing e-commerce segments in the Middle East, the online grocery sector is reshaping how Saudi consumers shop for everyday essentials.

Onion powder is a dehydrated and ground seasoning that results from the drying of fresh onions into a concentrated powdered form. The process of dehydration removes moisture from the product, while maintaining the flavor, aroma, and pungency characteristics of the onion, thereby making it a stable and ready-to-use ingredient with a longer shelf life. Onion powder can be prepared through various controlled drying, grinding, and screening processes from white, red, or yellow onion varieties.

Japan's animal feed industry stands as a cornerstone of the nation's agricultural infrastructure, supporting domestic livestock production and ensuring food security. The sector encompasses diverse feed products for cattle, swine, poultry, and aquaculture operations that sustain Japan's protein supply chain.

Nutraceuticals are bioactive, health-enhancing products derived from food sources, botanical ingredients, or purified nutrients that provide physiological benefits beyond basic nutrition. They include dietary supplements, functional foods, fortified beverages, herbal extracts, probiotics, omega-fatty-acid formulations, vitamins, minerals, and specialized nutritional compounds. Nutraceuticals are designed to support wellness, prevent nutrient deficiencies, and promote specific health outcomes, including the improvement of immunity, digestive balance, cognitive function, metabolic health, or cardiovascular support.

India's spice industry stands as a vibrant cornerstone of the nation's agricultural economy and cultural identity. As global consumers increasingly seek authentic flavors and natural ingredients, India's position as the world's leading spice producer continues to strengthen.

The India ice cream market is experiencing a fundamental transformation in consumption patterns. Traditionally viewed as a summer indulgence, ice cream has evolved into a year-round treat that transcends seasonal boundaries. This shift reflects changing consumer attitudes and lifestyle preferences across urban and emerging markets.

Millet represents a group of small-seeded cereals, primarily from the Poaceae family, which are grown as staple foods for thousands of years in Asia and Africa and, increasingly, in other parts of the world. These cereals include pearl millet, foxtail millet, finger millet, proso millet, barnyard millet, and little millet.

Milk powder is a type of dehydrated dairy product, which is manufactured by removing almost all moisture from liquid milk by means of various evaporation and drying techniques. The resultant product is a stable, shelf-friendly powder containing most of the nutritional components of milk, including proteins, lactose, minerals, and fats. Milk powder may be prepared from whole, skimmed, or partially skimmed milk, depending on its intended use. The very low moisture content inhibits microbial growth and spoilage; hence, it becomes more feasible regarding transport, storage, and usage in different formulations.

Meat generally denotes the animal tissues that are consumed and mainly include muscle fibers, though the content of fat, connective tissue, and moisture may vary. There are a number of sources, although they are mainly livestock such as cattle, pigs, sheep, poultry, and, in some regions, game animals.

Australia's tea market is at a crossroads, undergoing extraordinary change inspired by changing consumption habits, health awareness, and the explosion of functional drinks.

The Australia dairy industry stands as a vital pillar of the nation's agricultural economy, representing the third-largest rural sector and contributing significantly to both domestic food security and export earnings.

India has emerged as one of the fastest-growing fisheries producers in the world, backed by rising health awareness, export diversification, and evolving aquaculture technology.

Ice cream is a frozen dairy dessert made by blending milk, cream, sugar, and flavorings, then freezing the mixture while incorporating air to give a smooth, creamy texture. The mixture is pasteurized, homogenized, then churned under controlled conditions to prevent the formation of large ice crystals. Depending on the recipe and product category, it may contain stabilizers, emulsifiers, fruits, nuts, chocolate, or other inclusions. It comes in hardpacked ice cream, softserve, gelato, sorbets, and frozen yogurt. The texture, flavor, and quality of this frozen dessert will depend on the ratios of ingredients used and the techniques followed in processing.

The Philippines mushroom industry is undergoing a transformative phase, driven by a growing consumer shift toward functional and nutrient-dense foods. As health awareness rises across both urban and rural populations, mushrooms are increasingly recognized for their high protein, fiber, and antioxidant content. This change is not merely dietary it reflects a broader movement toward wellness-oriented lifestyles that prioritize natural, sustainable, and locally sourced food options. For agribusiness investors and food manufacturers, this evolution signals significant growth potential in both production and value-added segments of the market.

The Vietnam aquaculture market has transformed from traditional fishing practices into one of the world's most dynamic seafood production sectors. Vietnam now ranks as the fourth-largest aquaculture producer globally, supplying markets across Asia, Europe, and the Americas. Understanding what drives this growth is essential for investors, businesses, and policymakers looking to engage with this evolving industry.

French fries are thin strips of baked or deep-fried potatoes with a fluffy inside and a crispy outside. They originated in Europe and are now a common fast-food staple that is consumed as a snack or side dish in many countries. French fries are made mostly from high-starch potatoes and are produced in large quantities by chopping, blanching, frying, and occasionally freezing. They are among the most well-liked and extensively consumed potato-based food products in the world because of their ability to be seasoned, flavored, or combined with condiments like cheese, mayonnaise, or ketchup.

Glucose powder is a crystalline or powdered form of a simple sugar, glucose, derived mainly from sources of starch: corn, wheat, or rice. Glucose powder is obtained by the hydrolysis of starch into glucose by enzymes, followed by purification and concentration of the solution and its drying to yield a readily water-soluble, easily digested carbohydrate powder. Glucose powder is an instant source of energy as it is quickly absorbed in the body, which makes the product valuable in food, beverage, nutraceutical, and pharmaceutical applications. It has a neutral taste, a very high sweetness index compared to regular sugar, and excellent dissolving properties, making it useful in various industrial formulations and household consumption.

Ghee is a class of clarified butter that, conventionally, is prepared by simmering butter until the milk solids separate and caramelize, leaving a golden, fragrant fat. Presently, it is widely used in South Asian, Middle Eastern, and increasingly global cuisines. Ghee has a high smoke point, long shelf life, and rich flavor, which makes it suitable for cooking, frying, and flavor enhancement. During its production, water and milk proteins are removed, making the product a lactose-free fat that contains fat-soluble vitamins and bioactive compounds. Its stability, purity, and distinctive taste make ghee an important culinary and functional ingredient in both traditional and modern food applications.

Fruit powder is made by removing the moisture content of whole fruits through various methods, such as spray drying, freeze-drying, drum drying, or vacuum drying, to get a finely ground, dehydrated powder form. After drying, the fruit is then milled into a stable, lightweight, and shelf-friendly powder that retains much of the fruit's natural flavor, aroma, nutrients, and color. Fruit powders have the essence of fresh fruit in concentrated, easy-to-handle form and are thus highly versatile in food, beverage, nutraceutical, and cosmetic applications. They offer an alternative to fresh fruits in a more convenient manner with longer shelf life and consistent quality for industrial use.

Garlic powder is the dried form of garlic, made by drying fresh garlic cloves and then grinding them to a uniform powder. Garlic dehydration removes moisture while preserving much of the flavor, aroma, and pungency of garlic. This concentrated form offers longer shelf life, easy storage, and consistent taste compared to fresh garlic. Garlic powder is widely used as a seasoning, marinade ingredient, and flavor enhancer in culinary, industrial, and packaged-food applications. Garlic powder imparts the taste of garlic without peeling or chopping into the dishes; therefore, it is very convenient and versatile for both homes and large-scale food manufacturers.

The Frozen food market is highly diversified, encompassing categories like frozen ready meals, fruits and vegetables, meat, seafood, desserts, and bakery items. This robust growth is fueled by fundamental shifts, including urbanization, the rise of dual-income households, and a consumer demand for convenience without compromising nutritional value. Modern freezing technologies ensure high quality and extended shelf life, addressing the critical issue of food waste.

The United States shrimp market stands as one of the most dynamic segments within the global seafood industry. It reached 983,000 Tons in 2024 as per IMARC Group and is projected to reach 1,280,000 Tons by 2033 at a growth rate of 3% from 2025 to 2033. As consumer preferences shift toward healthier protein sources and sustainable options, shrimp has emerged as a cornerstone of American dietary habits. The market reflects transformations in consumer behavior, international trade dynamics, and technological innovation within aquaculture and seafood processing.

The Australia gluten-free food industry is flourishing, powered by a surge in health-conscious consumers, a rise in gluten intolerance cases, and a growing appetite for clean-label, nutritious products. In 2024, the industry reached a notable milestone, hitting USD 361.20 Million, according to IMARC Group. Popular categories like gluten-free bakery items, snacks, dairy, and ready-to-eat (RTE) meals are leading the charge.

The global frozen food industry has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past decade, evolving from a convenience-focused sector into a sophisticated, technology-driven marketplace that prioritizes quality, nutrition, and sustainability. Innovation serves as the primary catalyst for this evolution, fundamentally reshaping consumer perceptions and market dynamics across all geographic regions.

Egg powder is a type of dehydrated product prepared from whole eggs, egg whites, or egg yolks, using a controlled drying process that removes moisture content while preserving the natural nutrients, flavor, and functional properties in fresh eggs. Originally developed to extend the shelf life of eggs, it was also meant to be convenient and easily transportable for food manufacturing, catering, and military or outdoor purposes.

The global ginger market is currently experiencing a remarkable phase of expansion, positioning itself as one of the most dynamic segments within the spice and functional ingredient industries. As consumers worldwide are increasingly gravitating toward natural, health-promoting ingredients, ginger is emerging as a star performer that is capturing attention across multiple sectors, from culinary applications to pharmaceuticals and nutraceuticals. The market is demonstrating robust momentum that industry analysts are tracking with considerable interest.

Coconut is an important tropical crop with a wide array of uses, and hence it is considered the "Tree of Life." The fruit, leaves, trunk, and roots of coconuts yield a wide range of products. Each part has economic value and, therefore, provides a means of livelihood in many rural communities and agro-industrial development in tropical regions such as Southeast Asia, South Asia, and the Pacific Islands.

Coconut yogurt is a plant-based alternative to traditional dairy, made from the rich milk of mature coconuts. This yogurt boasts the same feel and taste as traditional dairy yogurt, all the while catering to vegans, lactose-intolerant, or allergenic consumers. Manufactured like traditional yogurt, this variety is fermented with live bacterial cultures such as Lactobacillus bulgaricus and Streptococcus thermophilus. These same cultures ferment the natural sugars of the coconut milk into lactic acid during processing, creating a thick consistency and giving it that tangy taste typical of yogurt.

The Australian dog food market is undergoing an important transformation, motivated mainly by advancements in AI technology. As more people own pets, they increasingly demand more tailored and nutritious options for dogs. Both technology and artificial intelligence (AI) are important to facilitate this, and reshaping the industry overall.

Coconut sugar, also known as coconut palm sugar, is a natural sweetener derived from the sap of flower buds from the coconut palm tree, Cocos nucifera. It has traditionally been produced in various tropical countries like Indonesia, the Philippines, India, and Thailand, where coconut cultivation is plentiful. This type of sugar is produced by tapping the flower buds of the coconut palm to collect the sap. The sap collected is then heated gently to boil off the water content, concentrate the sugars, and form a thick syrup.

The cashew nut is the kidney-shaped seed of the cashew apple, which is the fruit of the tropical evergreen tree Anacardium occidentale. In trade, the "cashew nut" is the edible kernel extracted from the drupe that lies under the cashew apple; the apple itself is consumed for juices and value-added products in certain markets. Cashew trees are adapted to tropical and subtropical regions with good drainage soils, and leading producers are Vietnam, India, Côte d'Ivoire, Brazil, and some West African states.

Carbonated soft drinks (CSDs) are soft drinks that contain carbon dioxide gas dissolved under pressure, providing the characteristic fizz and invigorating mouth feel that consumers like. They generally consist of carbonated water, sweeteners (sugar, high-fructose corn syrup, or low-calorie alternatives), flavoring ingredients, colorants, and preservatives. The products that fall under the category are colas, lemon-lime beverages, fruit-flavored sodas, tonic water, and sparkling mineral water.

Beer is one of the oldest and most popular alcoholic drinks in the world, made by the fermentation of cereal grains, usually barley, but also wheat, maize, or rice using yeast, hops, and water. The process of brewing turns these natural products into a drink that has intricate flavors, fizz, and a range of alcohol levels, usually 3% to 8% ABV. Hops add bitterness and flavor, with malted barley adding fermentable sugars and color. Beer has developed in centuries from small-scale, craft brewing to an international industrialized market with identifiable styles including lagers, ales, stouts, and pilsners.

The areca nut, or betel nut, is the seed of the areca palm (Areca catechu), a tropical palm mainly grown in South and Southeast Asia. It is one of the oldest described masticatories, chewing historically with betel leaf and lime for its mild stimulant effect. The nut is oval, fibrous, and high in alkaloids like arecoline, which is responsible for the typical flavor and psychoactive effects. Top producers are India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Myanmar, Thailand, and China, with India dominating in both output and consumption.

Apple juice is among the most popular fruit drinks in the world, appreciated for its crisp flavor, inherent sweetness, and health advantages. Apple juice is made by pressing fresh apples and filtering the resulting liquid, containing vital nutrients like vitamin C, potassium, antioxidants, and polyphenols that support immune function, cardiovascular health, and hydration. Based on manufacturing techniques, apple juice can be clear, murky, or concentrated, with each type presenting unique taste profiles and longevity attributes.

Banana powder is a dry, fine, nutrient-dense substance created by dehydrating ripe or unripe bananas using methods like spray drying, freeze drying, or drum drying. It acts as an easy and shelf-stable substitute for fresh bananas, preserving most of their essential nutrients such as potassium, magnesium, vitamin B6, and dietary fiber. The production process includes choosing premium bananas, removing their peels, cutting them into slices, and drying them to an optimal moisture content before milling into a fine powder.

Almonds are nutrient-dense seeds obtained from the fruit of the Prunus dulcis tree, highly prized as a food item and source of industrial raw materials. Botanically drupes, almonds have a hard shell covering the edible kernel, which is rich in proteins, monounsaturated fat, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. The two main varieties are sweet almonds, eaten raw or processed into food items, and bitter almonds, used conventionally to extract oil and flavor after purging. The distinguishing features are mild nutty taste, excellent shelf life if kept properly, and very good compatibility with food as well as non-food uses. Almonds are processed in several steps like cleaning, shelling, blanching, roasting, or oil extraction, depending on the final purpose.

In today's fast-paced world, ready-to-eat food has become a staple for anyone juggling work, family, or travel. These foods offer the comfort of a home-cooked dish, without the time and effort, making them a go-to solution for people who crave convenience. With over 4 billion people living in cities globally and the number of dual-income households rising, the time available for traditional cooking has significantly decreased, creating consistent demand for quick meal options.

Cocoa powder is one of the main derivatives of the cocoa bean, which is derived after cocoa butter has been extracted from it during the chocolate production process. It consists mainly of non-fat cocoa solids, which contain a high content of polyphenols, flavonoids, and alkaloids like theobromine. Famous for its intense color, bitter-sweet taste, and antioxidant activity, cocoa powder comes in natural and alkalized (Dutch-processed) grades, each with distinctive taste profiles and functional characteristics.

Cassava starch or tapioca starch is a white, odorless, fine powder extracted from the cassava plant's roots (Manihot esculenta). Cassava starch has diverse applications in food, pharmaceutical, textile, paper, and adhesives industries because of its unbeatable thickening, gelling, binding, and stabilizing properties. In the food industry, cassava starch finds its applications in bakery, confectionery, dairy, beverages, and gluten-free foods as a substitute for wheat and corn-based starches.

The global vegan yogurt market was valued at USD 3.40 Billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 12.21 Billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 14.51% from 2025 to 2033. This expansion is marked by ongoing innovation, enhanced consumer personalization, and a deeper commitment to sustainability.

The guacamole market is experiencing a notable change, primarily fueled by an increasing consumer preference for healthy, convenient, and natural food choices. In 2024, the market was valued at USD 1379.9 Million. Guacamole is a creamy avocado-based dip originating from Mexican cuisine has grown into a globally popular food product recognized for its nutritional value and versatility.

Corn starch tableware is a new and ecofriendly solution to traditional plastic disposable items, which aims at solving the increasing environmental issues linked to plastic waste. Comprising mostly of corn starch, a plant-based and renewable resource, the products range from plates, bowls, cups, cutlery, and food containers, all of which are completely biodegradable and compostable.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming India's beer market at a rapid pace by balancing art with advanced technology. Right from brewing to branding, AI makes fermentation precise, temperature adjustment accurate, and ingredient control efficient, guaranteeing consistent quality and innovation in taste.

Soybean oil is a major vegetable oil used as food obtained from the seeds of the soybean crop. It ranks among the world's most significant edible oils, widely utilized in the preparation of foods, processed food items, industrial purposes, and increasingly in biofuels. High in polyunsaturated fats, especially omega-6 fatty acids, soybean oil has applications in non-food industries such as the production of biodiesel, cosmetics, naphthas, and lubricants.

A bun is a small, round or oval-shaped, soft-textured bread product that can be slightly sweet or savory in taste. Made chiefly of wheat flour, yeast, sugar, salt, water, and fat, buns are found in most cuisines around the globe.

The global dairy market is presently experiencing a profound transformation. This is largely accredited to the strategic integration of artificial intelligence (AI), a technology poised to redefine established paradigms of efficiency and innovation within the industry.

People’s relationship with food is undergoing a profound transformation. No longer just a source of fuel, what individuals eat is now seen as a cornerstone of the overall well-being—a tool to boost immunity, sharpen focus, support digestion, and build long-term resilience. This evolution in consumer consciousness is creating a powerful demand for foods that are functional, organic, and transparently made with real ingredients.

Tequila, once confined to regional consumption in Mexico, has now become a popular spirit worldwide, known for its rich heritage, skilled craftsmanship, and premium quality. Made from blue agave, tequila has attracted international consumers for its distinct flavor, artisanal qualities, and cocktail versatility.

Avocado oil is a nutritious oil pressed from the pulp of avocados (Persea americana), in contrast with most oils, which are seed derived. Avocado oil is valued for its rich content of monounsaturated fats, especially oleic acid, in addition to necessary vitamins like E, A, and D. Avocado oil has a mild, buttery taste and very high smoke point and is used both in food preparation and cosmetics.

Biscuits are dry, baked foods made from flour and usually crisp in texture and flat in shape, eaten frequently as a snack or with a meal. They consist mostly of wheat flour, sugar, fat (butter or vegetable oil), and leavening agents such as baking powder. Flavors and variety may be added using ingredients like milk solids, chocolate, spices, or dried fruits. Biscuits come in sweet and savory forms, varying from cookies and cream-filled to salted crackers. Their shelf life, which is lengthy, convenient packaging, and broad taste appeal have made them a household staple, school staple, and workplace staple worldwide.

Nutritional powders have become essential nutritional supplements created to address the specific health needs of vulnerable demographics, including diabetic patients, the aged, and the sick. When regular food intake is inadequate or compromised, these powders, which are made with specially designed compositions and are high in vital vitamins, minerals, protein, and carbs, offer balanced nourishment. Specialized baby formulas guarantee the best possible growth and development in the early years of life.

Vegetable oils remain among the world’s most widely used agricultural products, essential to food manufacturing, biofuels, cosmetics, and industrial goods.

Learn key financial strategies, operational and capital cost planning essentials for starting a profitable livestock feed production business in 2025.

World Tea Day, celebrated every year on May 21st, is an opportunity to appreciate the rich history, cultural significance, and economic impact of tea. From its origins in ancient China to its status as a global commodity, tea continues to connect people, cultures, and economies.

Mango pulp is the thick, smooth, and semi-liquid product yielded by crushing or pulping ripened mangoes. It is the inner flesh of the mango fruit extracted, without the skin and seeds. Mango pulp is widely utilized as a base for many food items, including mango juice, nectar, drinks, smoothies, ice creams, desserts, and as a topping for pancakes or yogurt. Mango juice is a cool drink prepared from ripe mangoes' juice. To make mango juice, the ripe mangoes are normally peeled, pitted, and the flesh of the mango is squeezed to get the pulp. The pulp is further treated to remove the juice from any remaining fibers or solids.

Soy sauce is a liquid condiment used extensively in cooking and seasoning food. Produced from fermented soybeans, wheat, salt, and water, it provides a deep umami taste that can be used to enhance different foods. It is a common ingredient in Asian cooking and has become popular worldwide in marinades, stir-fries, dips, and processed foods. Come in various forms including light, dark, and low-sodium, soy sauce meets the different consumer tastes and nutritional requirements, rendering it a vital ingredient in the food industry.

Instant coffee is a quick and easy-to-brew coffee beverage that is produced by brewing coffee beans into a liquid that concentrates and evaporates into powder or grain form. It rapidly dissolves in hot water, so it's highly sought after by customers demanding fast and easy coffee brewing. It has a long storage life and is inexpensive, making it popular in homes, offices, and food service establishments. It is fueled by urbanization, hectic lifestyles, and growing demand for convenience drinks.

Glucose syrup and sorbitol syrup are versatile sweeteners widely used across the food and beverage industry. Their ability to enhance texture, retain moisture, and extend shelf life makes them essential ingredients in confectionery, bakery, dairy, and beverage products. Beyond their functional benefits, these syrups contribute to taste enhancement and product stability, catering to consumer preferences for smooth, consistent formulations.

Potato flakes are a highly adaptable food ingredient created by processing cooked potatoes into thin, dehydrated slices. They are often used in soups, snacks, baked goods, and fast meals and are well-known for their usefulness, taste, and simplicity of usage. These flakes provide a reliable and effective option for home cooking, foodservice, and commercial food production while preserving the natural flavour, texture, and nutritional value of fresh potatoes. They are indispensable in a variety of culinary applications due to their lengthy shelf life, lightweight design, and easy rehydration method. Their ability to be used in a variety of recipes, from thickened stews to crispy coatings, further solidifies their position as a basic component of the world's food industry.

Industrial enzymes are biological catalysts that fast-track the chemical process that is involved during the industrial processes. Their use is mainly seen in the food and beverage, pharmaceutical, textile, biofuel, and detergent industries. This enzyme is very effective as it is energy efficient and has cleaner and greener production. Its stability and specificity make it a wonderful tool for breaking complex molecules while improving product quality and yield. Industrial enzymes can enhance the texture of bread, benefit dairy processing, assist in the production of biofuels, and clean wastewater. All these phenomena illustrate that industrial enzymes are a mandatory requirement to manufacture many more products with sustainability and cost effectiveness for multiple industries.

Sorbitol is a sugar alcohol widely used as a sweetener, humectant, and stabilizer in food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. It is made commercially by hydrogenating glucose and is naturally present in fruits like apples and pears. Because of its mild sweetness, low glycaemic index, and ability to retain moisture, sorbitol is a popular ingredient in skincare, dental care, and sugar-free goods. It is also an essential component of industrial processes and a laxative in medical applications.

Inedible beef tallow, a byproduct of the meat processing industry, is derived from beef suet and serves various industrial and commercial purposes. This versatile substance undergoes rendering, a process that separates the fat from solid components. Inedible beef tallow's primary application is in animal feed, as it provides essential fats and energy for livestock, particularly in pet food and livestock supplements. Additionally, it finds use in the cosmetics and personal care industry, contributing to the production of candles, soaps, and skin-care products.

Vitamin C supplements are typically made by extracting ascorbic acid from various sources, such as citrus fruits, or synthesizing it in a laboratory setting. The extracted or synthesized ascorbic acid is then processed and formulated into different types of supplements, including tablets, capsules, chewable, and powdered forms. One of the primary advantages of Vitamin C supplements is their ability to support a healthy immune system.

Over the recent decade, the online food and grocery delivery business in India has witnessed exponential growth. This expansion is attributed to the increasing penetration of smartphones, the affordability and convenience offered by food delivery app services, and the growing availability of low-cost internet services. The industry has become progressively competitive, with numerous local and international players competing for a significant market share. Nonetheless, despite the extreme competition, global players are continuing to make significant investments in India on account of its significant market share in the global online food delivery market.

‘World Food Day’ is celebrated on October 16th as a global responsibility to abolish hunger. 2024’s theme for the day is ‘Right to foods for a better life and a better future’. This theme highlights the significance of enabling access to nutritious food for all, particularly in the face of global challenges, including poverty, climate change, and conflict. In line with this theme, in October 2024, India and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) announced plans for developing a food corridor between the two nations, with an initial investment of over USD 2 Billion (INR 17,000 Crore) in food processing and logistics for food parks. This project significantly reinforces the UAE's food security while providing support to Indian farmers. The initiative is part of a bigger investment strategy targeting over USD100 Billion across key sectors, including manufacturing, infrastructure, and logistics.

A vegan, or a plant-based diet, focuses mainly on consuming fruits, vegetables, grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds. It excludes all animal-derived products and ingredients, including meat, poultry, fish, dairy, eggs, and honey. Nowadays, people are shifting toward vegan diets for a variety of reasons, such as ethical concerns for animal welfare, environmental sustainability, health benefits, and personal preferences.

Functional foods promote overall well-being and offer specific health benefits beyond daily nutrient intake. These benefits encompass enhanced bone health, effective cholesterol management, improved heart health, and eye health. Functional foods include probiotic yoghurt, omega-3 enriched eggs, fortified milk, antioxidant-rich berries, and functional beverages.

Fusion cuisine and beverages blend different ingredients, flavors, or techniques from various culinary or cultural backgrounds to create unique and innovative flavor profiles in dishes and drinks. Fusion beverages encompass both alcoholic and non-alcoholic options, including cocktails, mocktails, smoothies, teas, and more. These beverages span a spectrum from simple combinations to complex and inventive concoctions. Changing taste preferences and global connectivity are the main reasons for the increasing adoption of fusion beverages. They are available in various product types, such as carbonated drinks, fused teas and coffees, fruit juices, fusion alcoholic beverages, energy drinks, sports drinks, and more. These beverages are accessible through off-trade outlets (hypermarkets, supermarkets, discounters, grocery stores, off-license stores, alcohol and confectionery stores, highly specialized retailers, and online stores), as well as on-trade establishments (pubs, bars, cafés, restaurants, clubs, discos, hotels, mass events, and others). Examples of fusion beverages include fruit-infused tea, Asian-inspired cocktails, spicy margaritas, bubble tea creations, mojito variations, and infused waters. Furthermore, fusion cuisine merges elements from diverse culinary traditions, such as Asian, European, African, or Latin American, to craft new and exciting dishes. Examples of fusion cuisine include sushi burritos, Thai basil pizza, kimchi tacos, and more.