Global food companies McCain Foods and Cargill are deepening their partnership to support innovation and sustainability in India’s frozen food category. Both companies are working together to provide responsibly produced food options to Indian consumers.
The growth of French fries in India is reflected in the frozen potato food industry, projected to grow at a Compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 10.3% between 2025–2033. Rising disposable incomes, digital access, and QSR (quick-service restaurants) expansion have influenced both production and consumption in this category. Changing consumer preferences towards health, nutrition, transparency, and sustainability are also affecting growth. The Cargill–McCain partnership is developing solutions that balance taste, convenience, and better-for-you attributes.
A longstanding strategic partnership
McCain, in the frozen potato segment in India, has had a strategic partnership with Cargill for nearly two decades. What began as technical support from Cargill has evolved into a strategic collaboration. Today, Cargill’s partnership with McCain delivers volumes and helps respond to market dynamics, social trends, and evolving consumer preferences.
With a shared focus on responsible and sustainable practices, McCain led the transition to 100% RSPO Segregated palm oil across its India portfolio, with Cargill as a supply partner enabling this shift. This step towards sustainable sourcing established McCain as an early adopter of segregated palm oil in India. Cargill, as a supplier of edible oils, supported this transition.
Advancing sustainable and consumer-centric innovation
As India’s health and wellness food market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 18.5% through 2031, consumers are seeking both convenience and nutrition. McCain and Cargill are positioned to meet this demand through ready-to-eat alternatives. Both companies are also developing soft oil blend solutions aimed at offering French fries with improved product profiles and consistent quality.
These innovations focus on consumer needs, addressing the changing preferences of Indian consumers and the QSR sector.
At McCain, we believe in celebrating real connections through delicious, planet-friendly food. Our partnership reflects this shared vision — working together to support farmers in adopting regenerative practices that build healthier soils, reduce environmental impact, and strengthen resilient supply chains,” said Mr. Mainak Dhar, Managing Director, McCain Foods India. “We have worked hand-in-hand with Cargill to create a real, lasting change — fostering trust, sharing knowledge, and nurturing a spirit of collaboration that goes beyond business. Our innovations not only nurture stronger communities and ecosystems but also ensure that the food we bring to the table is better for people and the planet. Together, we have built partnerships and connections that are as enduring as they are meaningful,” he added.
“Our partnership with McCain reflects collaboration and innovation,” said Dheeraj Talreja, Vice President and Managing Director, Food South Asia, Cargill. “Together, we’ve developed solutions that improve product quality, sustainability, and consumer value. With our shared purpose and long-standing relationship, I’m confident we’ll continue to strengthen this partnership and shape the future of India’s food industry.”
