Food Research Lab was founded with over 25 years of expertise in Food, Nutrition, and Dietetics, with a mission to bridge the gap between consumer demand and healthier product options. In 2011, we initially launched a Centre for Food, Mood, and Exercise, focusing on repacking healthier food products for consumers.

Commitment to Sustainability & Social Impact: Partnering with Government & NGOs

Insights from Dr. Radhika Ganesan, CEO, Food Research Lab

Chennai, Latest News . Feb 10, 2025

Introduction: Driving Innovation & Social Responsibility in Food Product Development

At Food Research Lab, we are not just pioneers in food innovation and product development—we are also committed to creating sustainable solutions that benefit farmers, food processors, and society. With over 25 years of expertise in Food, Nutrition, and Dietetics, we bridge the gap between consumer needs, industry challenges, and sustainability goals.

From working on clean-label, health-focused products to empowering small-scale food processors and linking farmers to markets, FRL is playing a crucial role in building a sustainable food ecosystem. Our efforts align with government policies, global sustainability goals, and social impact initiatives—helping improve livelihoods, reduce food waste, and drive economic growth in rural communities.

At FRL, we believe sustainability and economic empowerment go hand in hand. We are actively collaborating with the Government of Tamil Nadu to support farmers, food processors, and buyers through structured market linkages.

1. Partnering with TAHDCO for Economic Upliftment

We have recently signed a partnership with TAHDCO (Tamil Nadu Adi Dravidar Housing and Development Corporation) to promote sustainable livelihoods for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (SC/ST) communities. This initiative aims to:

  • Empower SC/ST farmers and entrepreneurs by connecting them to buyers and food processing units
  • Create direct market linkages that ensure fair pricing and reduce exploitation
  • Promote sustainable farming and local food production

2. Strengthening Farmer-Processor-Buyer Linkages

Through our government-backed programs, we are creating a strong ecosystem that bridges the gap between rural farmers, food manufacturers, and urban markets. This helps:

  • Reduce food waste by ensuring surplus crops are utilized efficiently in processed food production
  • Enhance food security by strengthening supply chains for staple and functional foods
  • Encourage sustainable agriculture by promoting organic and regenerative farming practices

3. Aligning with Global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

Our work at FRL is closely aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs), particularly:

  • SDG 2 (Zero Hunger): Developing nutrient-rich, affordable food products for underserved populations
  • SDG 3 (Good Health & Well-Being): Creating healthier, clean-label, and functional food solutions
  • SDG 8 (Decent Work & Economic Growth): Strengthening rural livelihoods through market connectivity
  • SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption & Production): Reducing food waste and improving sustainability in food processing

4. Future Plans: A Digital Marketplace for Farmers & Food Processors

To further streamline the raw material procurement process and empower small-scale food businesses, FRL is developing a first-of-its-kind digital marketplace—set to launch in 2026.

What This Platform Will Offer:

  • Connect buyers and sellers for seamless raw material procurement
  • Provide real-time access to regulatory guidelines & food safety standards
  • Enable transparent pricing & supply chain efficiency
  • Create an integrated knowledge hub for manufacturers on dosage, product formulations, and industry insights

Initially launching in India, the platform will expand globally, reducing procurement bottlenecks and improving accessibility for food innovators worldwide.

Conclusion: A Holistic Approach to Food Innovation & Societal Well-Being

At FRL, we are more than just a food R&D company—we are a force for change. Through our work in innovation, sustainability, and social empowerment, we are helping to shape a healthier, more sustainable, and economically inclusive food industry.

For NGOs, development agencies like UNICEF, and mission-driven organizations, we welcome collaborations to:

Together, we can build a food system that is healthier, more sustainable, and socially inclusive.

For more information about FRL’s product development services and collaborations, contact us