New Delhi, December 04, 2023.

Nestlé India was awarded the "best industry - product innovation for mainstreaming millets" by Nutrihub, ICAR-IIMR during the highly acclaimed "International Nutri-Cereal Convention 5.0". The event, which was hosted by Nutrihub, IIMR-ICAR, successfully brought together various stakeholders such as policymakers, producers, processors, researchers, academicians, R&D institutes, incubators, startups, micro-entrepreneurs, and NGOs working in the millets eco-system. This recognition reaffirms Nestlé India's commitment to excellence and innovation in the food industry.

Commenting on the faster adoption of millets, Mr. Suresh Narayanan, Chairman and Managing Director, Nestlé India said, “Nestlé India is deeply honoured to receive best industry- product innovation for mainstreaming millets award. This recognition is a testament to our commitment to providing nutritious and healthy food options to consumers across the countrycombined with the determination of the Nestlé India team to bring this vision to life. I am extremely pleased that we have launched millet-based products such as Nestlé a + Masala Millet with bajra, Nestlé CEREGROW grain selection with ragi, MAGGI Oats Noodles with Millet Magic with jowar and ragiamongst others. I extend my gratitude and sincerely congratulate the Government of India for being instrumental in bringing millets to the center stage and making 2023 the International Year of Millets. We believe this momentum of bringing millets or “shree anna”to the forefront needs to be sustained through partnerships between corporates, academics,and authorities.”   

Dr. B Dayakar Rao, CEO, Nutrihub said, “On behalf of Nutrihub, ICAR-IIMRand PoshakAnnaj awards committee, I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to Nestlé India for their unwavering dedication and important contribution in the field of millets.”

Nestlé India's initiatives to promote millets highlight its commitment to promote sustainable and diverse food options while supporting farmers and local communities, contributing to the betterment of the agricultural sector, and generating positive social impact.

Millets are crucial to the achievement of SDGssuch as SDG-3 that focusses on good health and well-being, SDG-4 on responsible consumption and production and SDG- 5 on climate action. Nestlé India’s millet-focused strategy is poised to significantly impact the food industry and promote more sustainable food options for consumers.