CSIR–National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology (CSIR–NIIST) is set to establish technology transfer agreements with industry partners during the “CSIR-NIIST Tech Connect: From Lab to Market” event at the CSIR Headquarters in New Delhi on February 18. The Thiruvananthapuram-based laboratory, part of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), will transfer various industry-ready technologies, including functional foods, sustainable materials, waste management, and post-harvest processing. N. Kalaiselvi, the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research Secretary and CSIR Director General, will grace the occasion as the Chief Guest.
The highlight of the event is the introduction of a specialized rice variant known as “designer rice,” which is low in glycaemic index (GI) and rich in protein and micronutrients. This innovation aims to combat India’s challenges of metabolic disorders and hidden hunger. The technology for this designer rice will be handed over to Tata Consumer Products and SS Soul Foods in Tamil Nadu. Unlike traditional polished white rice, this fortified variant offers increased protein content, better carbohydrate digestibility, and essential micronutrients like iron, folic acid, and Vitamin B12 without altering dietary habits.
In addition to the designer rice, CSIR–NIIST will also transfer an indigenous coffee crema technology that enhances foam stability, catering to the growing coffee and beverage market. Furthermore, the institute will introduce a bio-based cardanol polyol modified polyurethane dispersion as an eco-friendly alternative to petroleum-based binders, with applications in leather finishing and metallic coatings. Addressing the issue of horticultural post-harvest losses in India, CSIR–NIIST will commercialize osmotic dehydrated fruit bites and a ready-to-cook vegetable mix developed using Refrigerated Adsorption Dehumidified Dryer (RADD) technology, which enhances nutrient retention and shelf life.
Moreover, the event will mark the transfer of JAIVAM, an engineered microbiome for rapid aerobic composting, after obtaining industrial licenses and approval from the Kerala Suchitwa Mission. Additionally, cactus-derived plant-based leather alternatives, already in commercial use through 15 transfers and four production plants, will be handed over, supporting sustainable manufacturing initiatives. The ceremony will also witness the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on low-sodium salt formulations, including hollow salt crystal technology that can reduce sodium content by up to 86% while maintaining taste perception. This event signifies a strategic shift for CSIR–NIIST, positioning public research as a source of commercial innovation aligned with nutrition security, sustainability, and health-focused consumer markets.
