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Kerala Agricultural University (KAU) held a seminar on 'Next-generation proteins for nutrition security and a sustainable future,' underscoring the role of plant-based proteins in sustainable agriculture and food security. The event took place at KAU's agribusiness incubator in Vellanikkara and drew participation from students, faculty, researchers, and agri-start-ups across the state.
Dean of the College of Agriculture, Vellanikkara, Surendra Gopal, inaugurated the seminar, stating that the future of agriculture and food processing depends on scientific and sustainable food systems. He commended the agribusiness incubator for fostering entrepreneurial opportunities among students and young innovators. K.P. Sudheer, Professor and Head of Agricultural Engineering and Chief of the incubator, emphasized the potential of plant-based proteins to reduce carbon emissions and meet rising dietary demands, urging India to develop affordable, locally adapted protein alternatives.
Industry experts Shruthi Sadanand of Altruistic Innovations, Unnikrishnan P.G. of Greenovative Foods Pvt. Ltd., and Amal Jose of Tropi Foods India Pvt. Ltd. delivered technical sessions on advances in alternative proteins, market trends, and career pathways in the sector. The seminar also presented funding initiatives under the PM-RKVY RAFTAAR program, including PACE 2026 and RAISE 2026, detailing financial and operational support for student-led and start-up ventures.
The event served as a platform for collaboration between academia and the food technology industry, promoting innovation in India's agri-food sector. KAU officials stated that follow-up workshops and mentorship programs for selected start-ups will be organized in the coming months.