Eighteen months ago, Tata Chemicals, set up a plant in the southern city of Chennai in India which now produces more than 800 tons of nutraceuticals a year. By 2020 Tata Chemicals is looking at a target of 10,000 tons of fructooligosaccharides (FOS) and galactooligosaccharides (GOS), carbohydrates that are dietary fibers consumed to improve gut health.
The company’s flagship FOS ingredient is Fossence, a naturally sweet prebiotic dietary fiber with several wellness benefits. “Fossence can be used in every sweet and bakery shop in India,” says Anish Chowdhary, senior manager of Tata Chemicals, and a core member of the nutraceuticals team. “The key to success lies in fulfilling the customer needs.”
“Edible oil consumption in India has increased per person from 6.6 pounds in 1950 to more than 33 pounds in 2014,” says Chowdhary. “Indians consume almost 50 percent more fat every day than recommended. We also consume 15 percent of the sugar produced globally. Add to these, the deficiencies in micronutrients, vitamins and proteins and you have a ‘death-by-food’ recipe. What we need is scientifically proven, high-quality products designed for India. While there are sugar-free and fiber-enriched products in this market, they have not tapped into the huge potential of the processed food sector with ingredients that are healthy, tasty, safe and convenient to use,” he added.
Nutraceuticals is estimated to become $4 billion market in India by 2018, reports Business Standard. The company plans to make oligosaccharides, sweeteners, and anti-obesity products through green routes.
Last updated: December 26th, 2025
