Citrus processing unit in Abohar modernised to meet global flavour standards
New chilli plant to quadruple processing capacity to 4 MT per hour
The Punjab Government has extensively expanded three processing units set up in Abohar’s Alamgarh village to further strengthen the agri-processing sector and promote crop diversification.
On February 19, Minister for Animal Husbandry, Fisheries and Dairy Development of Punjab, Gurmeet Singh Khudian, inaugurated three important expansion units set up by Punjab Agri Export Corporation Limited (PAGREXCO) which include a chilli processing unit, a citrus processing unit and a Hi-Tech Protected Cultivation Nursery.
Abohar MLA Sandeep Jakhar was also invited to the event.
Khudian said that these units will not only increase the income of farmers but also establish Punjab as a global hub for high-value processed food products. He said that PAGREXCO is setting up a new state-of-the-art chilli processing unit at its existing fruits and vegetables processing plant. He said that with a comprehensive capacity of 3 MT (metric tonnes) per hour, this unit will increase the total chilli processing capacity of the unit from 1 MT per hour to 4 MT per hour.
The Minister said, “Both red and green chillies will be processed in this unit into high-quality fermented and unfermented chilli pastes specifically for export. This initiative will provide a dedicated procurement channel for fresh produce which will directly benefit local farmers and will eliminate the need for sun-drying of chillies. By processing around 6,500 MT of chillies every season, this unit will ensure better prices and help in drastically reducing post-harvest losses.”
"Taking a crucial step to make the most of Punjab’s famous kinnow production, PAGREXCO has undertaken a major technological upgrade in its citrus processing unit. The upgrade includes the addition of advanced machinery, including a deacidification unit, a special citrus peel oil extraction unit and a debittering unit."
“By removing bitterness and controlling acidity, we are ensuring that Punjab’s citrus meets global-favourite standards.”
“The peel oil extraction unit will transform the equipment that was earlier processing the waste into a high-value product, essential oil rich in d-limonene, which is in huge demand in the food favour, cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries. This will enhance both taste and profitability.”
