As CSIR-CFTRI enters its 75th year of remarkable contributions to Food Science and Technology in India, we are commemorating this milestone with a series of scientific and academic events throughout the year. As part of the Platinum Jubilee celebrations, the Platinum Jubilee Lecture Series is an ongoing platform that brings together eminent personalities from the realms of science, academia, industry, and innovation. Through this series, we aim to foster knowledge-sharing, spark meaningful dialogue, and inspire the next generation of scientists and technologists. These lectures are not only a celebration of our legacy but also a reaffirmation of our vision for the future a future driven by excellence, sustainability, and impact in food research. To mark this event as memorable one, a National Symposium on Plant Proteins: Structure-Function, Human Nutrition, and Technological Advances, has been integrated with Platinum Jubilee Lecture Series on July 25, 2025 at CSIR-CFTRI, Mysuru.
Currently, India’s dietary protein intake is dependent mainly on cereals such as wheat and rice, which contribute to nearly 60% of the total crop production and yield approximately 22.6 million metric tons (MMT) of protein. However, the protein quality of cereals—especially in terms of essential amino acids (EAAs)-is relatively poor compared to animal-based sources. This heavy reliance has led to widespread protein deficiency, affecting an estimated 13 to 37.3% of the population across various age groups.
To bridge this nutritional gap, there is a growing interest in alternative protein sources such as legumes, mushrooms, and single-cell proteins derived from microalgae, yeast, and bacteria.
This symposium aims to bring together leading scientists, technologists, industry professionals, and young researchers to share knowledge and explore the current landscape, challenges, and future directions in plant protein research. The symposium will focus on recent advancements in plant proteins, covering a range of topics including:
We cordially invite students, academicians, industry experts, and researchers to participate in the symposium and contribute to its success actively.
CSIR-Central Food Technological Research Institute (CFTRI), Mysore, is a premier R&D Institute devoted to Food Science & Technology under the aegis of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research since 1950. CFTRI focuses on research in technology development, engineering sciences, translational research, along with food protection and safety. Development of cost-effective technologies targeted to small and medium scale enterprises, utilization of newer Agri-Resources, and value addition for ensuring food security by innovative food processing methodologies are the prime objectives of the Institute.
The Association of Food Scientists and Technologists (India), established in 1957, is one of the largest professional and educational organizations, with around 5000 members - food scientists and technologists, across the globe. The major objective of AFST(I) is to stimulate and advance knowledgebase on various aspects of Food Science and Technology by organizing National and International Conferences and bringing out technical publications including prestigious journals-Journal of Food Science and Technology (JFST) and Indian Food Industry Mag (IFI Mag).
Former Professor, Department of Biochemistry,IISc, Bangalore
Director, CSIR-CFTRI, Mysuru
Executive Director, BRIC-National Agri-Food and Biomanufacturing Institute (Formerly NABI & CIAB), Mohali