Mysuru-based CSIR-CFTRI researchers developed the ready mix for idli, fermented and dried instant idli/ dosa batter, and Idli, chutney, sambar in a tray under REPFED (Refrigerated Processed Foods of Extended Durability) technology. This enables the product to be stored under refrigerated conditions in heat and eat format.
The products were launched by Union minister for Science and Technology Dr Jitendra Singh during the TechBharat 2022 event held at the CSIR-CFTRI campus.
Idli is a well-known Indian traditional food. However, preparation of these involves time-consuming steps such as soaking, wet grinding and fermentation of the batter. The Institute earlier had developed ready-made batter.
This product offers great convenience and is a pour-over product, where in idlis with sambar powder are provided. To hot water, sambar powder is added to get sambar and idlis are dipped in this hot sambar to get ready to eat idli sambar in 4-5 minutes, said the institute.
The key features of the technology are that it has highly acceptable texture and sensory attributes. It is a RTRC (Ready To Re Constitute) product and offers great convenience. All that one needs to do is to just add boiled water and allow to stand for 4-5 minutes. The product contains no added preservatives and artificial flavours.
In the case of the cold coffee product, the institute said it is a refreshing drink to suit every taste at any time of the day. It is enriched with the benefits of green coffee extract. It also avails the richness of premium coffee, chocolate and vanilla flavoured cold coffee. Besides it is a combination of powerful antioxidants and caffeine.
The institute’s minimally processed or fresh cut ready to eat fruits is a mission-oriented R & D programme of CSIR-CFTRI with industrial partner Bigbasket, a Tata Enterprise. The process provides convenience, freshness, retains nutrients, microbial safety and extends shelf life 3-5 folds benefiting Industries/ enterprises in long run. With busy lifestyle and health-conscious consumers, fresh cut fruits would be one of the most demanding sectors in food industry, stated CSIR-CFTRI.