Asian Spices & Condiments Research & Development Board

ACOHI stands for Asian Countries Chamber of Hospitality Industry, a visionary organization that aims to establish a culinary world of unity, business, technology exchange, bilateral relations, peace and brotherhood across Asia and the world. ACOHI has more than 37 independent boards that work on various aspects of the hospitality industry, such as star grading, culinary diplomacy, travel & tourism, research, chocolate, hydroponics, waste management, purchase management and many more.

One of the boards of ACOHI is the Spices & Condiments Board of Asia, which is responsible for promoting the use of authentic and natural spices and condiments in the culinary industry. Spices and condiments are essential ingredients that add flavor, aroma, color and health benefits to various dishes. They also reflect the diversity and richness of Asian culture and cuisine. The spices & condiments board of Asia works on creating awareness, standardization, quality control, innovation and research on spices and condiments. It also facilitates the trade and exchange of spices and condiments among India, Asian countries and beyond.

To understand the significance of spices and condiments in Asia, it is important to look at their history in India, which is one of the oldest and largest producers and consumers of spices in the world. History of Indian spices dates back to ancient times when they were used for flavouring foods, cosmetics, medicine , rituals , perfumery and trade. The origin of Indian spice trade dates back to 7000 years ago and Indian trade became very popular across the globe. Columbus was on the way to find a shorter route to India to facilitate trade but led to the discovery of America. Centuries before the prices of spices were very high and many slaves were bought and sold for a few cups of peppercorns.

Indian spices have influenced the cuisines, cultures and histories of many regions such as the Middle East, Europe, Africa and Southeast Asia . Some of the most famous Indian spices are pepper, turmeric, cardamom, cumin, coriander, fenugreek, ginger, garlic, saffron, nutmeg, clove, cinnamon and mustard . These spices have various health benefits such as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, anticancer and digestive properties . They also have spiritual significance in Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, Sikhism, Zoroastrianism, Islam, Christianity, Judaism etc..

Indian spices have also played a role in shaping the political, economic, social, cultural, religious, artistic, scientific, literary, educational, medical, technological, military, diplomatic, legal, environmental etc.

The spice trade led to the establishment of various empires such as Mauryan Empire, Chola Empire, Vijayanagara Empire, Mughal Empire, Maratha Empire etc. The spice trade also attracted many foreign invaders such as Alexander the Great, Arabs, Turks, Mongols, Afghans, Portuguese, Dutch, French, British etc to India.

Imagine a plate of biryani without the aroma of cardamom, a cup of tea without the warmth of ginger, or a curry without the colour of turmeric. Spices and condiments are the essence of Indian cuisine, adding flavour, fragrance and health to every dish. But they are not just culinary delights, they are also economic assets for India, which is the largest producer, consumer and exporter of spices and condiments in the world. India produces about 75 of the 109 varieties listed by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). In 2021-22, India produced 10.88 million tonnes of spices and exported spices worth US$ 4,102.29 million.

However, the spice sector in India faces many challenges such as maintaining quality and safety standards, preventing adulteration and contamination, competing with other countries, and meeting the changing demands and preferences of consumers. The Government of India addresses these challenges and supports the spice sector, creating policies and initiatives that regulate, promote and develop the spice industry in India.

One of the biggest market share for consumption of masala and condiments is Hospitality Industry exclusive which contributes a major share of revenue for state and nation across India & Asia. As India becomes the major route for trade, effective planning can make this business and trade more profitable for manufacturers and government agencies along with the board which are working for the development of trade and business in India & abroad. Till now all these government boards were working only on independent level and there was no industry handloading for joint actions, hence the need was to create platform of a robust nature from the industry which makes sure that there is joint action and support from the industry to develop the trade & business to mark a perfect harmony between traders and industry therefore formation of ACOHI Spices & Condiments Research & Development Board took place.

There is a huge gap between manufacturers and industry as it is populated by a majority of agents which manipulate the markets, trading, prices & quality as well. A full proof plan is being established to connect the manufacturers directly with the industry to make sure there are no malpractices occurring in terms of points written above. This will enhance growth of Brands and Direct Manufacturers as well as farmers as they will get the fair pricing for their yield.

The board is also making an attempt to educate the farmers for better yield, better products and better hygiene & safety along with education which is imparted to them on the latest technologies in agriculture which will enable them for better and best productivity for which separate board has been established for the purpose which is an SPU Board known as Dr. Panjabrao Deshmukh Agricultural Research & Development Board which consists to topmost people from agriculture including Vice Chancellors, Agriculture Commissioners along with Agriculture Universities & Scientists of the various subject.

Click link to know more about the SPU Board – https://www.acohi.org/indian-organic-movement-board/

The major emphasis is on the research & development of spices & condiments as till date there was no joint research organized with the Hospitality Industry and Government Sector. Joint action has been planned for better yields and products which will enhance the productivity of Indian Spice & condiment market in India, Asia & rest of the World.

Major emphasis is on the manufacturers getting connected to the Industry in order for fair pricing and to derail the structure of unwanted agents in between manufacturers and Hospitality Industry.

Major standardization is in process for the supply of spices and condiments into the Hospitality Industry of India, Asia & World from ACOHI. More emphasis will be on adulteration free and best products which are extremely healthy for human consumption and for the usage in the industry. Till now there are no parameters laid down by the industry for the supply of spices & condiments in the Industry resulting in products with adulteration and the products handled in the wrong and in non scientific way.

The SOP set by ACOHI will be the first of its kind in the entire India, Asia & World which will give way for best practices and handling along with quality and fresh products for the industry usage.

Are you a Manufacturer or Farmer who is into the subject of Spices & Condiments, if yes then apply for the most prestigious Culinary ID for the product by filling the inquiry form and be with the market leaders and Hospitality Industry of India, Asia & World. Make your product reach the right destination which will accelerate its growth, business , brand & positioning with ACOHI – SCRDB.