The Fi India and ProPak India 2024 shows held at the Bangalore International Exhibition Centre (BIEC) from 25 to 27 September 2024 highlighted the latest trends and innovations in the food and packaging industries from around the globe. Organized by Informa Markets in India, the co-located events featured visitors from various sectors and provided a platform for networking, knowledge exchange, and exploring business collaborations.
Speaking on the occasion, Yogesh Mudras, managing director of Informa Markets in India, said, “India’s food processing sector is transforming, supported by initiatives such as the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana, ensuring efficient farm-to-retail infrastructure. As a global leader in food production, India stands out in spices, producing over 11 million tons in 2022-23. Our diverse agro-climatic conditions allow the cultivation of cereals, pulses, and vegetables. The rapid growth of the food packaging industry, driven by convenience and sustainability, is evident, as seen in the success of Fi India & ProPak India 2024, showcasing innovation and collaboration.”
With increased consumption of packaged foods, rising health consciousness, and the growing popularity of sustainable practices, the exhibition focused on these trends — showcasing products ranging from innovative food additives, herbs, spices, and flavors to machinery for packaging and labeling solutions.
The Fi-India exhibition at hall 4 highlighted food formulation techniques, with an array of products such as natural ingredients, seasonings, and functional food additives from companies such as Ecospice Ingredients, Keva Flavours, Konark Herbal and Health Care, and many more. It also hosted international exhibitors from countries such as Japan, Canada, and France.
director of Prova Flavours. Photo PSA
Appreciating the growth of the Indian food industry, Julien LE KY HUONG, regional director of Prova Flavours, said, “The developments in the confectionery industry in the last 15 years have been quite impressive and I believe it to be just the beginning. The bakery industry is strong and focuses on new innovative concepts. We see the non-alcoholic beer industry as the next big thing in the Indian market and growing at a consistent rate.”
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While Fi India focused on the entire range of the food industry, ProPak India at Hall 5 focused on advancements in packaging with exhibitors such as Avonflex, SwissPac, Serac, and others presenting the latest packaging technology and materials, emphasizing sustainability and efficiency.
Ahmedabased-based nonwoven bag manufacturer Packofy, participating for the first time in ProPak India, aimed to expand its market in Southern India. “Although we participated for the first time in any show in Southern India, we got a positive response. The visitors were excited to try our products,” said Himanshu Patel, business partner at Packofy.
The core theme of the entire exhibition was sustainability. The ProPak India exhibition has a special zone that focused specifically on sustainable solutions for machinery and packaging. Visitors saw biodegradable materials and innovative packaging designs, and interacted with officials of companies that have successfully implemented sustainable packaging practices.
The first two days featured panel discussions around sustainability, food packaging technology, the use of bioplastic biodegradable recycled material, ingredient supply chains, smart protein, and various other topics. The Fi India sessions delved into the future of food ingredients, alternative proteins, and sustainable food practices, whereas ProPak India discussed evolving market demands, especially in the areas of food safety, natural ingredients, and smart packaging.
Photo PSA
The panels discussed the projected shift towards reducing plastic usage and innovating biodegradable material. According to Prasad B. Iyer, director of SIES School of Packaging, consumer demand for green packaging has grown significantly, and many consumers are willing to pay more for sustainable packaging options. This shift is reshaping the packaging industry, with innovations such as nanotechnology enhancing the functionality and environmental impact of packaging materials.
Informa Markets also hosted the second edition of the Fi India Awards, a platform that showcases and acknowledges the trends and initiatives that lead to the food industry’s growth. Yogesh Mudras, managing director of Informa Markets in India, said, “With the Fi India awards, we aim to recognize the food industry’s efforts to bring an upswing through modern and creative solutions. The award is a testament to the creativity, unstoppable diligence, and strong intent, resulting in the advancement of the food and beverage manufacturing industry.”
