Patanjali Foods Limited, formerly Ruchi Soya Industries Limited, stands as a leading Indian multinational in food processing and fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG). Its expansive portfolio spans edible oils, food products, biscuits, and nutraceuticals. With a presence in over 30 countries, the company reaches more than 2.5 million retail touchpoints and offers a diverse range of over 500 stock-keeping units (SKUs). For over 35 years, Patanjali Foods has nourished Indian households with high-quality, affordable products that seamlessly blend traditional wisdom with modern science.
At ASSOCHAM’s 10th Nutraceutical Summit, The Interview World engaged in an exclusive conversation with Apoorva Kumar, Vice President and Business Head, Patanjali Foods Limited. He outlined the company’s rapid strides in the nutraceutical space, unveiled its latest innovations, and detailed strategic interventions shaping its future. He also highlighted how Patanjali is integrating AI and advanced language models to revolutionize healthcare management, diagnostics, patient care, and personalized medicine. Most importantly, he emphasized the company’s commitment to a scientific, research-driven approach in developing healthcare products and solutions.
Here are the key takeaways from this insightful discussion.
Q: As one of the leading Ayurveda and nutraceutical companies in the country, how do you foresee the growth trajectory of this sector over the next 5 to 10 years?
A: The health and wellness industry holds immense potential, with nutraceuticals playing a key role in its expansion. Patanjali has been at the forefront of this transformation, pioneering holistic well-being in India. Two decades ago, Swami Ramdev revived yoga, a practice that had largely faded from public consciousness. Today, yoga has not only reshaped India’s approach to health but has also gained unprecedented popularity in the U.S. and Europe, solidifying its status as a global wellness movement.
Over the past 20 years, Patanjali has grown at an extraordinary pace. Looking ahead, we aim to double our revenues within the next five to ten years, particularly in the health and wellness segment. Simultaneously, we see the entire industry surging forward. Young entrepreneurs are establishing their own manufacturing units, fuelling industry growth. New companies are entering the market, aggressively promoting wellness products. Meanwhile, ancillary services like legal compliance and quality control are strengthening the ecosystem.
This once-fragmented sector is now coalescing into a powerful force. With strong government support, the industry is poised to evolve from a niche market into a large-scale economic powerhouse in the next decade.
Q: What new innovations and interventions is Patanjali introducing in the nutraceutical domain, and how do they align with emerging consumer health trends and market demands?
A: We are making significant investments in research and development, with a strong focus on new product innovation. Simultaneously, we are expanding our manufacturing capabilities to enhance efficiency and scalability.
Beyond domestic growth, we are actively exploring international markets, particularly those with a substantial Indian diaspora. To serve this demographic, we are targeting key regions such as the United States, Europe, and Southeast Asia in the near term.
Our long-term vision extends far beyond product offerings. Over the next 10 to 15 years, we aim to build a comprehensive health and well-being enterprise. This ecosystem will encompass nutraceuticals, superfoods, supplements, and medicines, alongside holistic wellness solutions such as yoga and wellness retreats. Our ambition is to redefine health and wellness on a global scale.
Q: How do technological interventions, such as AI and language models like ChatGPT, enhance healthcare management, and what specific impact do you foresee in areas like diagnostics, patient care, and personalized medicine?
A: AI development has largely focused on building the technology itself, with limited attention given to its real-world applications. That is the gap we are addressing now—harnessing AI to create practical, business-driven solutions.
Several key areas stand out. First, supply chain optimization—how can AI make it more efficient and resilient? Second, formulation development—how do we test and refine formulations to ensure their success? Third, marketing—beyond consumer awareness, how do we strategically engage consumers? AI has the potential to drive both need creation and need awareness with precision.
Take nutraceuticals, for example. Consumer needs vary significantly—one person might have a vitamin D deficiency, while another lacks vitamin C. A one-size-fits-all approach fails here. AI can change that. By analysing biomarkers, age, weight, and other health data, a prescriptive AI can recommend personalized nutraceuticals tailored to each individual.
This same AI, when applied to another person with different biomarkers, generates a customized solution specific to their needs. We are actively exploring this concept, though it remains in its early stages. Right now, most investments are still directed toward AI development. The next phase—applying AI to real business challenges—is where the real transformation will happen. The discussions are already in motion, and we are committed to leading this shift.
Q: What are your projections for growth in capacity building and employment within the nutraceutical segment?
A: Talent is the cornerstone of every successful organization, and Patanjali, as a large enterprise, employs a vast workforce. However, the search for exceptional talent never stops. We continuously seek skilled professionals across all functions—manufacturing, sales, finance, and legal—to strengthen our operations and drive growth. The demand for top-tier talent remains immense, and we are always looking for individuals who can contribute to our vision.
Q: How does Patanjali ensure a scientific approach in its research and development of healthcare products and solutions, and what role does modern scientific validation play in its formulations?
A: Patanjali Research Foundation, based in Haridwar, stands as a world-class centre for scientific research. With a team of over 100 PhD holders—many trained internationally or having pursued postdoctoral research abroad—we drive cutting-edge R&D at an unparalleled scale.
Despite market perceptions suggesting otherwise, Patanjali operates with rigorous scientific standards. Having worked with multinational corporations and witnessed their R&D centres firsthand, I can confidently say that our research foundation surpasses many in both talent and infrastructure. From state-of-the-art equipment to stringent development protocols, every aspect of our research meets global benchmarks.
Q: Has Patanjali achieved any major breakthroughs in the treatment of critical illnesses or medical emergencies? If so, could you share insights into these advancements?
A: Our research and development efforts are constantly in motion, driving innovation across our product pipeline. We strategically time our launches to ensure maximum impact, and when the moment is right, you’ll hear about them. Stay tuned for what’s coming next.
