CFTRI to develop foods for astronauts, athletes, and India’s ageing population — UPSC Current Affairs | December 5, 2025
CFTRI to develop foods for astronauts, athletes, and India’s ageing population
The Central Food Technological Research Institute (CFTRI) is focusing on developing advanced food technologies, including space foods, sports foods, and geriatric foods, with a target completion date of 2030. CFTRI is also exploring the use of Artificial Intelligence in food technology and promoting Geographical Indication (GI) products.
Overview The Central Food Technological Research Institute (CFTRI) , based in Mysuru, is expanding its focus beyond millet-based products to develop advanced food technologies. This initiative, prompted by the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) , includes creating specialized foods for astronauts (space foods), athletes (sports foods), and the elderly (geriatric foods). The institute aims to deliver these technologies by 2030 . Key Developments Specialized Foods: CFTRI is developing a three-meal nutrition kit for senior and super-senior citizens. Space Foods: Emphasis is placed on developing foods for astronauts that address bone health concerns. Sports Foods: The institute is focusing on natural endurance-enhancing drinks for athletes. Geriatric Foods: Development of foods tailored for the geriatric population, considering demographic projections indicating a significant increase in the elderly population by 2047 . Technology Transfer: CFTRI transferred 94 technologies to the Government of Kerala, generating a revenue of ₹50 lakh . Collaboration: CFTRI collaborated with McDonald’s to develop the millet bun. AI in Food Technology: The institute is actively exploring the use of Artificial Intelligence in food processing. UPSC Relevance This initiative is relevant to GS3 (Science and Technology) , GS3 (Economy) , GS2 (Social Justice) , and GS2 (Government Policies) . It highlights the role of research and development in addressing societal needs and promoting innovation in food technology. Important Facts CFTRI’s Mission: To develop advanced food technologies for various demographic groups. Target Year: 2030 is the target year for delivering these food technologies. Demographic Focus: The institute is focusing on foods for astronauts, athletes, and the elderly. Collaboration: CFTRI is collaborating with other CSIR laboratories. GI Mahotsav 3.0: The director spoke on the sidelines of GI Mahotsav 3.0 , promoting Geographical Indication (GI) products. Millet Bun: CFTRI developed the millet bun in collaboration with McDonald’s . AI Integration: The institute is actively working on integrating Artificial Intelligence in food technology.