Fermenta, NIFTEM-T forge strategic partnership to advance food fortification in India
The partnership, facilitated by GAIN, will support joint efforts in research, development, and knowledge exchange across food processing and nutrition technologies.
INDIA – Fermenta Biotech Limited, a global producer of Vitamin D3 and a pioneer in nutritional ingredients, has signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the National Institute of Food Technology, Entrepreneurship and Management – Thanjavur (NIFTEM-T).
The partnership, facilitated by the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN), marks a significant step toward advancing innovation in food fortification.
It will also support joint efforts in research, development, and the exchange of knowledge across food processing and nutrition technologies.
As part of this partnership, Fermenta will provide technical expertise and infrastructure support to the Centre of Excellence for Food Fortification (CEFF) at NIFTEM-T, which focuses on the development, demonstration, and dissemination of food fortification technologies, particularly for essential staples such as edible oil and wheat flour.
Additionally, the partnership will provide students with industry exposure through internships, facilitate sponsored research projects, and promote technology transfer and incubation for food-related startups.
Mr. Prashant Nagre, Managing Director, Fermenta, stated: “This partnership reflects our commitment to addressing micronutrient deficiencies through science-backed solutions. By combining industry experience with academic expertise, we aim to enable real-world impact in public health.”
The MoU was formally signed during the One-Day Symposium on “Harnessing Innovation for Health: Novel Molecules and New Technologies in Vitamin D Fortification,” on July 10, 2025.
“We are delighted to partner with Fermenta in this endeavor. This collaboration aligns perfectly with our mission of driving research and capacity-building in food processing. The Centre of Excellence for Food Fortification will serve as a catalyst for impactful, evidence-based interventions in nutrition,” Prof. V. Palanimuthu, Director, NIFTEM-T, said.
The signing took place in the presence of senior representatives from FSSAI, Fermenta, NIFTEM-T, GAIN, and other dignitaries from the food fortification sector, reflecting a shared vision to strengthen nutrition initiatives in India.
“It is encouraging to see industry and academia come together to address nutrition challenges through practical innovation. This collaboration is a strong example of how cross-sectoral efforts can lead to lasting improvements in food systems,” Dr. Bhuvaneswari Balasubramanian, India Country Director, GAIN, commented.
This partnership marks a significant step toward building scalable, science-driven solutions that contribute to India’s nutritional security and foster long-term public health benefits.
About Fermenta Biotech Limited
Founded in 1951, Fermenta Biotech Limited (Fermenta) possesses a growing portfolio of nutrition, including Customized Premixes, Fortified Rice Kernel (FRK) and other nutritional ingredients.
Apart from its nutrition portfolio, Fermenta is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of Vitamin D3.
It caters to over 400 customers across 60 countries, with a worldwide distribution network serving a variety of applications, including pharmaceuticals, dietary and nutritional supplements, food, animal nutrition, and rodenticides.
Fermenta’s manufacturing facilities in Kullu, Dahej, and Tirupati are certified by global accreditations, and its world-class R&D centre is located in Thane.
The company also possesses expertise in green chemistry, including enzymes for antibiotic synthesis, other niche APIs, and environmental solutions.
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