In 2023, Nutrich Food Pvt. Ltd., headquartered in Kolhapur, Maharashtra, achieved the esteemed Two-Star Export House recognition from the Government of India—a testament to its consistent export performance, operational excellence, and unwavering commitment to quality. But how did Nutrich reach this pivotal milestone? Let’s lift the curtain and explore the journey in detail.
1. From Humble Beginnings to Agro Excellence
Nutrich’s journey began in 1990, operating as Shree Foods, specializing in oil milling and cattle feed. In 2003, the transformation began when Shree Foods restructured as Nutrich Food Pvt. Ltd., expanding into food manufacturing and trading.
Over the years, the company steadily broadened its portfolio and operational footprint:
- 2007–2010: Expansion into corn milling and flakes production.
- 2010: Launch of the agro merchant export trade division.
- 2016: Attained One-Star Export House status.
- 2017: Established its cashew-processing unit.
- 2018–2019: Introduced desiccated coconut brand and merchant import division.
- 2023: Elevated to Two-Star Export House
This chronological evolution underscores a strategic and consistent trajectory toward export excellence.
2. Diversified Product Lines: Strength in Variety
- Nutrich’s robust product portfolio is a key driver of its export credentials:
- Maize Products: Corn grits, Corn meals, Broken maize, Corn Flaking grits and more under Nutrich CornGrits
- Cashew Kernels: Premium grades like White Wholes and Scorched Wholes tailored for global snack brands
- Cottonseed Meal (‘Pharmashree’): Protein-rich meal for both feed and pharmaceutical industries, meeting stringent nutritional benchmarks
- Additional offerings: Rice, sugar & jaggery, spices, livestock grains, oilseed meals.
This diversity not only maximises market reach but also spreads business risk across multiple commodity sectors—enhancing resilience and export potential.
3. Certifications and Quality Assurance: Trust-Building Blocks
Nutrich’s credibility is anchored in its rigorous quality systems and certifications:
- ISO 9001:2008, Halal, certifications across divisions, catering to both industry standards and diverse consumer segments
- Strict adherence to Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) in all production phases
- Comprehensive quality control, including testing for moisture, microbial load, pesticide residues, protein levels, heavy metals, aflatoxins, and more
- Processing with non-GMO maize, supported by annual PCR-based testing at NABL-accredited labs and non-GMO certification from India’s Export Inspection Council
- Controlled packaging: 50 kg poly woven bags with HDPE liners and 1-ton FIBC options, ensuring hygiene and safe transit
These certifications and practices guarantee that products meet not only Indian regulatory standards but also global buyer expectations for safety, purity, and consistency.
4. Operational Efficiency: From Raw Material to Global Markets
Nutrich’s export success hinges on robust internal processes:
- Sourcing: Strategic partnerships with trusted suppliers ensure high-grade raw materials
- Processing: Advanced corn milling, cashew processing, and cottonseed extraction operations maintain quality and scalability
- Export Fulfilment: Pre-shipment inspection, fumigation, container vetting, and surveyor-certified procedures protect product integrity during transit
- Documentation & Logistics: Nutrich meticulously handles all export paperwork, customs documentation, and logistics to ensure timely and seamless delivery.
These end-to-end capabilities build the reliability and efficiency required to scale exports consistently.
5. Global Footprint: Export Reach and Performance
Nutrich’s export network spans Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and more:Key Markets: Malaysia, Kenya, Rwanda, Indonesia, Singapore, Vietnam, the Middle East, and beyond – Export Data (FY 2023-24): 60 shipments totalling around $1.737 million; top receiving countries: Kenya ($639K), Malaysia ($318K), Rwanda ($236K), Indonesia ($99K). These figures reflect strong growth and broad market penetration. Also expert in handling shipments to Srilanka, Vietnam, Fiji, New Papau Guinea, Australia & many more countries.
6. Innovation and Customer Focus
Beyond products, Nutrich emphasises innovation and customer-centricity:
- In-House R&D: Continuous product development ensures adaptability and responsiveness to market shifts
- Customer Relationships: Strong collaboration across stakeholders—farmers, processors, and buyers—underpins long-term trust and quality alignment
- Ethical & Sustainable Vision: The company’s mission emphasises integrity, sustainability, and community impact, providing a values-driven edge
These intangible assets—trust, innovation, and sustainability—bolster Nutrich’s market reputation.
7. The Leap to Two-Star Export House: What It Signifies
India’s Export House certification, awarded by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), has multiple tiers:
- One-Star: Recognizes firms achieving moderate export performance.
- Two-Star: A step up, requiring higher export volumes and superior compliance
Nutrich’s precise earnings, certifications, and operational readiness—including quality protocols, shipment control, and diverse export categories—converged to meet and exceed DGFT criteria in 2023. This elevation symbolises maturity in international trade operations and trustworthiness at a national level.
8. What Comes Next: Sustaining and Growing the Momentum
Having earned the Two-Star status, what strategic paths lie ahead?
- Reaching Three-Star Recognition: Continued export growth and higher compliance standards could result in even greater recognition.
- Product Innovation: New offerings like value-added snacks, health-focused foods, or customized commodity blends.
- Sustainability & Traceability: Embracing digital tracking, eco-friendly packaging, supplier audits, and certifications like organic or Fair Trade.
- Brand Building: Consumer-facing platforms, e-commerce expansion, and global branding for Nutrich and Nutrich CornGrits.
9. Takeaways: Why Nutrich’s Story Matters
Nutrich’s ascension demonstrates that:
- Strategic evolution—from feed milling to global export—drives sustainable growth.
- Operational excellence—through strict quality and logistical management—facilitates trust and reliability.
- Diversification and innovation—cultivate resilience and adaptability.
- Ethical and customer-first practices—help build long-term partnerships and brand equity.
These lessons resonate deeply in a globalised market where buyers demand trust, quality, and consistency.