SRI LANKA – JFS Holdings Limited, owner of RAVINE food brands, has entered into a groundbreaking research collaboration with the University Business Linkage Cell at Sabaragamuwa University to develop millet-based instant food products.
The collaboration of JFS with the Sabaragamuwa University brings together academic expertise and industry innovation to create a range of instant food products, with finger millet (kurakkan) as the key ingredient.
The products, including the recently experimented Kurakstring Mix and Kurakkan Flour – Fine Grade, are designed to meet the demands of a global audience seeking unique, healthy, and gluten-free alternatives.
According to partners, the collaboration aims to encourage healthier food habits and expand global market presence.
Founded in 2021, JFS Holdings Limited is a diversified business entity in Sri Lanka with key sectors across ICT, action sports, and agro-food.
Since 2020, the company’s Food-Agro sector has been providing Kurakkan (Finger Millet) based basic products and spices to the local market, contributing to the promotion of traditional and nutritious food choices.
As a Good Manufacturing Practices certificate holder, RAVINE envisions not only replacing traditional wheat-based products for all kinds of health-conscious populations.
The upcoming product line includes ready-to-eat/drink options for diabetic patients, people with high vulnerability for diabetes, and fiber-rich products for those in need of dietary fiber.
Madhushan Raigamage, President of JFS Agro Food (Private) Limited elated the collaboration, adding that the company’s commitment to long-term development and delivering value to customers aligns perfectly with the university’s dedication to research and knowledge dissemination.
“Together, we aim to introduce a range of Kurakkan-based instant food products to the global market, promoting healthier eating habits and providing unique alternatives.”
“With an established e-commerce platform, JFS Agro Food is poised to expedite the global distribution of these innovative products.
Commenting on the new partnership, Sabaragamuwa University Vice-Chancellor Prof. M. Sunil Shantha highlighted the Sri Lankan government’s emphasis on prioritizing research and development activities.
According to him, this focus aims to benefit not only the university and companies but also the entire national economy. He also outlined the university’s vision to create innovative products, particularly in agriculture and food science, with a focus on the export market.
JFS Holdings company is actively approaching potential buyers in the USA, Canada, UAE, Australia, and New Zealand, with plans to explore additional opportunities in the global market.
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