Packaging/Labelling and Quality Management System for Indian Sugar Industry to Meet Consumer Demands

Abstract

There is a growing quality consciousness in food processing industry not only because of requirement of bulk/industrial consumers but also because of growing awareness in the common consumers. Sugar industry is no exception as out of the total production, only 40% is used for direct consumption and 60% is consumed by various industries, viz. beverage, confectionary, bakery, sweets and pharmaceutical, who lay many protocols to be followed during processing and packaging. Keeping this in view and also for meeting the requirements of overseas buyers who have stringent quality norms, Indian sugar industry is required to implement a proper quality management and packaging system.

It is also pertinent to mention that food labelling and packaging has also gained importance, keeping food safety in mind. Informative food labelling and consumer-friendly packaging is essential as it helps the consumer to better understand the constituents of the food product and also gives a sense of security relating to the safety and integrity of the food being produced. Labelling and packaging of sugar forms an important aspect for the sugar manufacturers in terms of fulfilling food safety compliance which would in turn help in growing their value chain with a strong product image in the market. The measures discussed subsequently are considered essential for implementation by the sugar units in order to improve and maintain the quality of sugar for facilitating marketing besides enhancing the productivity.