To tackle the challenges of food perishability, especially in distant markets, Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) has introduced a innovative solution through its sugarcane juice bottling technology. This innovative technique, developed by the Department of Food Science and Technology, offers entrepreneurs in the food industry a viable way to ensure better price realization and broader market access for their products.
Recognizing the potential of this technology, PAU recently signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) with entrepreneur Ajit Kumar Behera, who operates the brand 'Ash Udyog' in Dangapal, Odisha. The agreement was formalized by Dr. AS Dhatt, Director of Research at PAU, and Behera. Dr. Satbir Singh Gosal, Vice-Chancellor of PAU, and Dr. Dhatt lauded the efforts of Dr. Poonam A. Sachdev, Principal Food Technologist, for her role in disseminating this technology to farmers and industry stakeholders across India.
Dr. Sachdev explained that the sugarcane juice is thermally processed, eliminating harmful microorganisms and extending its shelf life. Unlike the unhygienic options often available from roadside vendors, this bottled sugarcane juice is a healthier and safer alternative. The extended shelf life enables the product to be marketed not only nationally but also internationally, opening up significant commercial opportunities.
Dr. Khushdeep Dharni, Associate Director of PAU’s Technology Marketing and Intellectual Property Rights (TM&IPR) Cell, highlighted that sugarcane juice bottling technology has been gaining widespread popularity among entrepreneurs. So far, PAU has signed 24 MoAs aimed at disseminating the technology at grassroots levels. He further emphasized the TM&IPR Cell's mission to foster strong partnerships with stakeholders in agriculture, food processing, and related fields.
The MoA signing ceremony was attended by prominent figures such as Dr. GS Mangat, Dr. GS Manes, and Dr. Savita Sharma, highlighting the university’s dedication to innovation and collaboration in the agricultural sector.
