Nestlé is actively exploring opportunities to provide consumers with a wider range of food choices that incorporate various types of ancient grains, including millet and sorghum. Recently, the company launched a line of a+ Masala millet-based porridges in India, offering both a delicious and nutritious option.
Tailored to meet local nutritional needs and tastes, the a+ Masala millet porridges are made with a blend of locally sourced ingredients such as bajra (pearl millet), barley, vegetables, and a variety of 10 spices. These porridges come in two flavors, Tangy Tomato and Veggie Masala, and can be prepared in just two minutes. Not only are they high in fiber, but they are also free of preservatives and contain 30% fewer calories compared to commonly consumed cereal-based breakfast recipes.
The initial development of these products took place at Nestlé’s R+D Accelerator in Manesar, India. Functioning as a regional platform for students, start-ups, and employees, this accelerator enables the transformation of ideas into tangible products by leveraging Nestlé’s extensive food and beverage innovation expertise and infrastructure.
Following a successful shop test in New Delhi – National Capital Region (NCR) last December, the a+ Masala millet porridges have now been commercially launched in an expanded range of stores within the region, with plans to expand into more areas in the future.
Jagdeep Marahar, head of Nestlé’s R&D center in Manesar, India, explains, “Millets are traditional grains known for their high nutritional value and potential sustainability benefits. We are exploring innovation opportunities with start-ups and partnering with local research institutions to encourage the utilization of millet in different types of food and beverage products.”
To emphasize the nutritional value and benefits of millets, the new porridges proudly display an endorsement logo from the Indian Institute of Millets Research (IIMR) on their packaging. Additionally, the Nestlé R&D center in India has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Nutrihub-IIMR, with the aim of advancing science and technology for millet manufacturing, substantiating the nutrition and health benefits of millets in various products, and exploring regenerative agriculture practices. Furthermore, this collaboration seeks to support local start-ups that are working on millet innovation.
In summary, Nestlé recognizes the importance of diversifying food choices and is actively working to incorporate ancient grains like millet into their products. The a+ Masala millet porridges exemplify Nestlé’s commitment to offering tasty and nutritious options that cater to regional tastes and preferences. By partnering with local research institutions and supporting start-ups, Nestlé aims to promote the utilization of millets and explore innovative opportunities in the food and beverage industry.
