Nagpur: Joining the world in its quest for innovation and sustainability, especially in fruit processing, ICAR-Central Citrus Research Institute (ICAR-CCRI), Nagpur, has led the way in developing a series of citrus-value-added products and functional foods.

With hardly 5% of India's citrus crop being processed, as compared to 70–80% in developed countries, the institute believes in converting post-harvest problems into economic benefits for citrus farmers.ICAR-CCRI was able to create a range of products such as ready-to-drink beverages, energy and sports drinks, squash, marmalade, jam, nutri-jelly, gummies containing vitamin C fortification, ice cream, candies, and spray-dried citrus powder.

Most of these have already been technology transferred to small and medium enterprises, and a new generation of ‘citripreneurs' is in the offing.Dr Dilip Ghosh, director, ICAR-CCRI, said that the institute applied for four patents on citrus-based products and is ready to file two more. "These products are not only commercially viable but also environmentally sustainable. They are ready for licencing, holding massive promise for foodpreneurs and the food processing sector," he said.

The institute has also been daring in citrus waste valorization, transforming what are commonly wasted — peel, pulp, and seeds — into high-value products. Bioactive compounds obtained from citrus waste are now utilised in food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. Some of the most groundbreaking innovations include mandarin pomace cookies, pummelo peel candies, and acid lime peel edible films for biodegradable packaging.SS Roy, principal scientist, ICAR-CCRI, explained that the consumer market that is health-conscious would benefit from these nutrient-dense citrus products.

"Our mission is to promote healthier dietary consumption and benefit local citrus agroecosystems," he said.The ICAR-CCRI model, integrating high-tech processing technologies, minimisation of waste, and entrepreneurship, is likely to generate rural employment and bolster associated industries like packaging and logistics. By enabling farmers to transition from price-takers to price-makers, the institute is propelling a more sustainable and robust citrus economy.