Industry leaders at VitaFoods India 2025 discuss the future of functional foods, AI-driven personalization, and regulatory challenges in health and nutrition | File Photo
Mumbai: The second day of VitaFoods India 2025, held at Jio World Convention Centre in BKC, witnessed engaging discussions on the future of functional foods and beverages, with a focus on integrating value-added ingredients, AI-driven personalization, and regulatory compliance. The session, moderated by Vaibhav Kulkarni, Hon. Secretary, Health and Dietary Supplements Association (HADSA), featured industry stalwarts who shared their expertise on emerging trends and challenges in the sector.
The panel included Hitesh Patel, MD, K. Patel Phyto Extracts, Vikram Kelkar, MD, Hexagon Nutrition, Dr. Manjari Chandra, Founder, Manjari Wellness and Dr. Ganesh Kadhe, Founder and Director, Zantus Lifesciences. Prof. Vijayaraghavan Seshadri also delivered an insightful talk on the role of micronutrients and nutraceuticals in enhancing cognitive function and performance in Alzheimer’s disease.
A key highlight of the discussion was how AI-driven personalization and advanced ingredient technologies are revolutionizing functional foods. Speaking on the topic, Vikram Kelkar emphasized, “Consumers today demand customized nutrition solutions. AI is enabling us to analyze individual health data and create tailored functional food products that cater to specific dietary needs.”
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Dr. Manjari Chandra echoed similar sentiments, stating, “We are entering an era where food is not just about sustenance but a tool for targeted health benefits. The use of botanicals and value-added ingredients in functional foods is a game-changer.”
One of the major challenges discussed was ensuring regulatory compliance and scientifically substantiated health claims to establish credibility in the market. Dr. Ganesh Kadhe highlighted the importance of this, stating, “The industry must work collectively to ensure that claims made about functional foods and nutraceuticals are backed by strong scientific evidence. This is crucial for consumer trust and market sustainability.”
Hitesh Patel added, “While innovation is key, regulatory alignment is equally important. We must collaborate with authorities to develop clear frameworks that allow for safe and effective product innovations.”
In a special address, Prof. Vijayaraghavan Seshadri delved into the role of micronutrients and nutraceuticals in enhancing cognitive function, particularly in Alzheimer’s disease. He remarked, “With an aging population, the need for cognitive health solutions is greater than ever. Micronutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, flavonoids, and plant-based antioxidants can play a pivotal role in preventing cognitive decline.”
The session concluded with a consensus on the need for continuous research, innovation, and collaboration between industry leaders and regulatory bodies to propel the functional foods sector forward. VitaFoods India 2025 continues to be a significant platform for knowledge-sharing and networking, bringing together experts to shape the future of the health and nutrition industry.
With thought-provoking discussions and groundbreaking insights, the event reaffirmed its role as a catalyst in driving the next wave of advancements in functional foods and nutraceuticals.
