First Choice Foods Pvt. Ltd. has launched a European-technology potato processing facility in Siddharthanagar Rural Municipality, Rupandehi District. The Rs. 2 billion (US$24M) plant covers five bighas with a 60,000 square foot industrial building, detailed Executive Chairman Krishna Prasad Poudel during a recent product launch event. Products were introduced by Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Bishnu Prasad Paudel, who highlighted their potential in the international market.
The facility produces frozen potato products, including French fries, with plans to expand to potato tikki, burger patties, smileys, and hash brown potato wedges. "First Choice Foods has obtained BRCGS international quality production certification," mentioned Poudel. The company is also registered with the U.S. FDA and exports to the Indian market, with plans to reach the U.S., Dubai, Malaysia, and Saudi Arabia.
Investments have been channeled into research on processing-grade potatoes across various regions, sourcing 2,000 metric tonnes from local farmers. The company collaborates with thousands of farmers in 19 districts, including Kailali and Nawalpur. Poudel emphasized the role of in-house specialists in potato crop management and food science.
The venture supports farmer-market connections, aligns agriculture with technology, and seeks to establish 'Made in Nepal' as a global brand. Despite challenges from low-quality imports and policy issues, the company is committed to healthy, safe potato products under the "Himalayan Crisp and Hamro Fries" brands. Products are distributed across major Nepalese cities and in India through Pal Frozen Group.
Source: The Rising Nepal
