India exports first fortified rice kernel from Chhattisgarh to Costa Rica

The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, has facilitated the first-ever export consignment of 12 metric tonnes of Fortified Rice Kernel (FRK) from Chhattisgarh to Costa Rica, marking a major milestone in India’s agricultural exports and nutrition-focused initiatives.
According to the the Ministry of Commerce and Industry,the initiative aligns with the government’s vision of Kuposhan Mukt Bharat (Malnutrition-Free India), being implemented under the Poshan Abhiyan. The move also underscores the synergy between India’s domestic nutrition mission and its expanding global outreach in the agri-food sector.Chhattisgarh has consistently promoted the export of rice and fortified rice products, helping the state’s farmers, millers, and exporters gain greater visibility in international markets. The successful export of FRK to Costa Rica highlights the state’s growing role in the global supply chain for nutrition-enriched food products and demonstrates India’s capability in food fortification technology.
APEDA Chairman Abhishek Dev congratulated the exporters and stakeholders involved in achieving this milestone. He said the export of fortified rice strengthens India’s agricultural export portfolio while reaffirming the nation’s commitment to tackling malnutrition through science-driven, globally recognized food solutions. He also assured APEDA’s continued support to exporters in exploring new markets for fortified and value-added food products.Mukesh Jain, President of The Rice Exporters Association of Chhattisgarh (TREA-CG), appreciated APEDA’s support in facilitating the consignment and noted that exports of fortified rice to new destinations are being planned in the near future. He called for sustained collaboration with APEDA to further boost agricultural exports from Chhattisgarh.
According to information,fortified Rice Kernel is produced by blending rice flour with essential micronutrients such as iron, folic acid, and vitamin B12. These nutrients are extruded and shaped to resemble rice grains and then mixed with regular rice in specific ratios to enhance the nutritional value of the staple food.The export of FRK reflects India’s growing expertise in food fortification and its commitment to improving global food security and nutrition. The successful shipment represents a significant step forward for India’s agricultural export sector, driven by coordinated efforts between APEDA, the Government of Chhattisgarh, and private stakeholders.