Nestlé India is incorporating millets as an ingredient to provide consumers with more diverse food options. In line with the government focus on millets, Nestlé India is creating a differentiated food portfolio across brands that promotes millet as a more sustainable food option, through partnerships and product innovations. As a part of this initiative, Nestlé India has launched Nestlé a+ Masala Millet that contains bajra and can be eaten as a light meal at any time of the day.

Available in two lip smacking variants, Tangy Tomato and Veggie Masala, Nestlé a+ Masala Millet comes in a multi-serve pack priced at Rs. 175 for 240 gm and a single-serve pack priced at Rs. 30 for 40 gm. The product is high in fibre, with 30% less calories and free from added preservatives. It has been developed under the guidance of IIMR (Indian Institute of Millets Research). Nestlé India has already launched Nestlé CEREGROW Grain Selection with ragi, Nestlé MILO Cocoa Malt with bajra and Nestlé KOKO KRUNCH Millet-Jowar breakfast cereals.

India is one of the largest millet producers in the world, accounting for 20% of global millet production. Nestlé R&D Centre India, Manesar (a subsidiary of Nestlé S.A and a part of Nestlé’s global R&D network) signed an MOU with Nutrihub-IIMR with an aim to collaborate in areas such as millet processing, health and nutrition benefits, millet sustainable regenerative agriculture practices and start-up collaborations.

Commenting on the faster adoption of millets, Suresh Narayanan, chairman and managing director, Nestlé India said, “Millets have been associated with India’s agricultural heritage and with 2023 identified as the International Year of Millets, it is only appropriate that it is brought to the forefront with increased awareness and suitable products. I am delighted to announce our ambition to incorporate millets into relevant product categories. We have already introduced millets into some of our products and the launch of Nestlé a+ Masala Millet is another step in that direction.”

Dr C Tara Satyavathi, director, IIMR said, ‘’Millets are superfoods and have high nutritional benefits which have been recognized both in India and worldwide. The focus this year will be to raise awareness on millets especially amidst the adverse and changing climatic conditions, while highlighting the opportunities it can create for producers, farmers and consumers. We are very pleased to collaborate with Nestlé India and to be able to offer the benefits of these super grains to a larger audience.’’

Nestlé India's initiatives to promote millets highlight its commitment to promote sustainable and diverse food options while supporting farmers and local communities. As the company moves forward with its millet-focused strategy, it is poised to significantly impact the food industry and food options for consumers.