APEDA Facilitates First Export of Dried Egg Powder from Odisha to Austria – Boost for Agri Exports

Overview The APEDA under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry has cleared the first commercial shipment of dried whole egg powder from Balangir, Odisha to Austria . The consignment of 22.6 metric tonnes marks a milestone for India’s value‑added agricultural exports and shows growing acceptance of Indian processed poultry products in premium European markets. Key Developments Export carried out by OVO Farm Pvt. Ltd. , an APEDA‑registered exporter. Processing unit, set up in 2025 , is certified under FSSC 22000 , and holds HALAL and KOSHER certifications. Product meets European Union hygiene requirements and other global food‑safety norms. Shipment was virtually flagged off by Shri Abhishek Dev, IAS , Chairman of APEDA, in the presence of Shri Prem Chand, IAS (Commissioner‑cum‑Secretary, Fisheries & Animal Resources Development, Odisha) and Shri Gaurav Shivaji Isalwar, IAS (Collector & District Magistrate, Balangir). Important Facts The dried whole egg powder is produced by spray‑drying liquid eggs, giving it a long shelf life and easy transport. It is widely used in bakeries, confectionery manufacturing and pharmaceutical formulations for its functional properties. Austria and several other EU countries import egg powder for food and industrial applications, indicating a stable demand. APEDA’s financial assistance schemes helped the exporter upgrade processing infrastructure, adopt food‑safety management systems and improve laboratory testing capabilities. UPSC Relevance This development touches upon multiple GS topics. It illustrates how the Ministry of Commerce & Industry uses export‑promotion agencies like APEDA to boost “value‑added agricultural exports”, a key indicator of economic diversification (GS3). The adherence to international standards such as FSSC 22000 , HALAL and KOSHER reflects India’s compliance with global trade norms, a point often asked in questions on trade policy and food safety. Way Forward To capitalise on this success, the government should encourage more agro‑processing units in tier‑2 states, extend credit and technical assistance, and streamline certification processes. Strengthening cold‑chain logistics and promoting Indian processed foods in other high‑value markets will further enhance export earnings. Continuous monitoring of international standards will ensure Indian products remain competitive in the global arena.