Dry Fruit Processing & Packaging Trends in 2025

The nuts and dry fruits industry is changing fast. In 2025, three things matter most: safety, eco-friendly packaging and speed.

Here’s what’s new in the dry fruits and nuts market:

Safer Processing from Start to Finish

• Steam treatment for nuts: Many nuts are now cleaned with steam before packaging. This kills harmful germs but keeps the natural taste and crunch.
• Better sorting machines: New machines can “see” inside nuts using X-rays and laser lights. They remove bad pieces, shells, stones or anything that doesn’t belong.
• Tracking every batch: Companies are now recording where each batch came from and where it goes. This is called traceability. If there’s a problem, they can find and remove only the affected stock.

Packaging That Protects and is Better for the Planet

• Mono-material packs: Made from only one type of plastic for easier recycling.
• Paper-based packs: Paper or paper-plus-coating packs work well if the product doesn’t need very high oil or moisture protection.
• EPR rules: Extended Producer Responsibility means brands must collect and recycle the same amount of plastic they put into the market, and register on a government portal.
• Recycled PET: In 2025, India will allow food packs made from recycled PET if they meet safety standards.

Clearer Labels

• Front-of-pack nutrition: Bigger, clearer nutrition details on the front showing if a product is high in sugar, salt, or fat – required for both Indian and imported products.

Longer Shelf Life Without Losing Quality

• Nitrogen flushing: Packs are filled with nitrogen gas before sealing to stop staling and keep crunchiness.
• Good sealing: Stronger seals and resealable zips keep nuts fresh after opening.
• Cold storage for sensitive nuts: Walnuts and other heat-sensitive nuts are kept in cold storage during summer.

Faster, Cleaner, More Flexible Processing

• AI sorting: Artificial intelligence improves sorting speed and accuracy.
• Energy-saving roasters: New roasters save energy and give more even roasting.
• Small batch runs: More small packs and short runs for online orders and special flavours.

Packs That Consumers Like

• Resealable stand-up pouches for daily snacking.
• Clear jars (including recycled PET) for visibility and easy storage.
• Bulk pillow packs for restaurants and hotels.
• Small mixed-nut packs for travel and gifting.

Simple Steps Towards Sustainability

• Use less material in packaging without reducing strength.
• Design for recycling so the pack can go into one recycling stream.
• Prove your claim – if you say your pack is recyclable or contains recycled content, keep documents to show it.

What This Means for NDFC(I) Members

• Importers: Ensure packaging meets Indian rules before products arrive.
• Processors: Invest in better cleaning, sorting, and sealing systems.
• Brand Owners: Shift to resealable, recyclable, and easy-to-understand packs.
• Exporters: Align with both Indian and destination country rules for labelling, food safety, and sustainable packaging.

In one line: Safe product, simple packs, and clear labels – that’s the 2025 way forward for dry fruits and nuts.