Investigating the barriers to growth in the Indian food processing sector

Abstract

The Indian food processing sector (IFPS) has a tremendous capability for growth that can improve the socio-economic conditions of the rural masses. The performance of this sector is lagging behind substantially when compared to other developing nations. This study aims to identify growth barriers at different supply chain (SC) stages in the IFPS. Delphi analysis is performed to find out the barriers in the IFPS. Eighteen growth barriers have been found through expert opinion and extensive literature review spanning across three supply chain tiers: farm level, distribution level, and the consumer level. Further, to prioritize and identify the relative importance of various barriers, the analytic hierarchy process is employed. The results show that the top growth barriers in IFPS are-the lack of standardization and quality in the processed food, rain-dependent farming, and the high cost of cold chain facilities. The novel contribution of this study lies in capturing the intricacies of growth barriers in IFPS in an integrated manner across different SC tiers. Interactions between the identified drivers are important to both practitioners and researchers in understanding and driving process, quality, and technology improvements. Finally, the results also throw light on prioritized areas of concern that can be a game-changer for policymakers in India and other developing nations.

Determinants of foreign direct investment: employment status and potential of food processing industry in India

“…However, coming to the processing potentiality, Singh et al. (2022) indicate how the prospects of higher value addition processing face many constraints, like the lack of better farming practices, wastage management and cold storage facilities.…”

“…However, coming to the processing potentiality, Singh et al (2022) indicate how the prospects of higher value addition processing face many constraints, like the lack of better farming practices, wastage management and cold storage facilities. Accordingly, Indian policies have increasingly focused on strengthening supply chains that have important backward linkages (NCAER, 2010).…”

Food Processing Industry in India Progress, Potential, Problems and Policy

“…To enhance food safety systems and standards in the food processing sector, industries should adopt good management practices and good hygienic practices. Also, there is a need to provide skills and training in food technology on the social front (Singh, Daultani, & Sahu, 2022).…”

“…In their paper, Shelly and Kaur (2015) have attempted to bring out the developmental experience of the food processing industry in India. The study of Singh, Daultani, and Sahu (2022) aims to identify growth barriers at different supply chain (SC) stages in the food processing industry. Thulasiraman, Nandagopal, and Kothakota (2021) have raised issues in the food processing sector and how to manage the short food supply in case of a pandemic.…”

Forward and Reverse Logistics Network Design with Sustainability for New and Refurbished Products in E-commerce

“…They have considered the food damage and driver safety concerns caused by accidents. Taking this work further, Singh et al (2022) investigated the barriers to growth in the Indian food processing sector.…”