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Our Bureau

New Delhi , Nov. 20

CONVENIENCE, variety and health concerns are likely to drive demand for packaged food in the future.

In fact, a study has found that the greatest scope for innovation in the "immediate future" is with respect to the quasi-meal and snacks.

"With lifestyles having undergone a radical change, the consumer is in need of (and is willing to spend on) new, processed alternatives in both these areas - options that offer convenience, variety, health as well as indulgence," a joint study on Foods and Beverages (Challenges and opportunities in the Indian market) by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) and AC Nielsen said.

The findings are supported by the fact that a number of recent sociological trends point towards changes in the meal patterns of the young population - especially school going kids, college students and young working adults.

"Quasi meals seem to be replacing at least one of the core meals of the day. Most often, this meal is lunch - eaten on the go, in the office while working or simply in a hurry.

And the need here is for something quick and filling, without the fuss and trappings of a formal meal - sandwiches, dosas, chana bhaturas, Maggi noodles, pav bhaji, etc," the study points out.

In addition, the Indian palate has become adventurous with respect to quasi meals, which includes experimentation with not only cross regional cuisine but also newer types of global cuisine.

Popular quasi meals thereby range from chola bhatura and chaat to dosa and upmas to even pastas.

The study further finds that the price sensitivity is lower in case of the quasi meal compared to the core meal.

However, given the regularity of consumption, there is a need for good value and limiting expense within a boundary, the study said.

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