Cargill opens $100m wet corn milling plant in India

US-based Cargill has inaugurated a $100m wet corn milling plant in Davangere, Karnataka, India.

The new facility is spread over 44.5 acres of land and has the capacity to mill 800t of corn every day.

The corn, after processing, will produce glucose and other derivatives, which can be used as sweeteners, thickeners, and for a wide range of purposes in the food and healthcare industry.

Byproducts produced at the new facility will be primarily supplied to the local market and will cater to the company’s customers in South East Asia and Africa.

Cargill India chairman Siraj Chaudhry said: "Cargill has been present in the state of Karnataka since 1983 and has set up four manufacturing facilities in the state contributing to the development of the agriculture and the food industries.

"The newly inaugurated facility will be no different, and we are looking forward to working together with the government, the local communities as well as the farmers to develop a fruitful relationship."

The plant has integrated advanced safety, quality and water conservation technologies, to treat and recycle wastewater in the facility.

Cargill aims at improving the livelihood of 5,000 farmers and their families in 23 villages of Harihara block in Davangere district.

Cargill is also aims to improve standards in the district through school enhancements, farmer training, economic support programmes for women in farming households, and community outreach initiatives, the company claimed.

Cargill chairman David MacLennan said: "At Cargill, we are committed to help our customers and communities we operate in thrive.

"Cargill’s commitment towards successful establishment of our business in India without compromising on ecological balance, employee safety and customer delivery are top priorities for us."