PRODUCT PROFILE Rice flake is the husked rice which is flattened into flat light dry flakes. These flakes of rice swell when added to liquid, whether hot or cold, as they absorb water, milk or any other liquids. The thicknesses of these flakes vary between almost translucently thin (the more expensive varieties) to nearly four times thicker than a normal rice grain. These are also known as POHA. Paha industry comprises an important segment of Industrial activity in food processing industry in the country. It provides nutrition breakfast and food to a large number of households in cities, towns and even villages of India. Paha industry has also an important role in popularizing wheat in traditionally non wheat consuming regions of the country. Paha consumed by people of all ages and all times. With tea and coffee, Paha make a tasty and nutrition snack. There is a definite need for the poha industry to make inroads in the rural areas. Applications It is a vegetable food. All the men and women eat poha in the breakfast and children like it. It has light in weight so it cannot be harmful in any stage. The urgency for the development of nutritionally balanced protein foods, which would be within the reach of a substantial portion of the population in a country like India, can hardly be over emphasized. The dietary deficiencies of protein, particularly among pre school children and also during the prenatal period, can lead to both physical and mental impairment. Global demand A typical, average middle class Indian family did not have a standard breakfast on a regular basis like its Western counterpart. Those who did have breakfast consumed milk, snacks, bread, butter, jam or local food preparations like dalia idlies, parathas and the like as convenient. As a result of the organized efforts of domestic and global players, the breakfast items have come now to include cereals, energy bars, fresh dairy products and fruit juices. Because of these forays, the breakfast cereal category almost doubled between 2003 and 2006. Estimated at a modest Rs 2.5 billion, the market includes cornflakes, muesli, pancakes, oatmeal and porridge. It is growing fast not only because of macro factors, such as acceptance of packaged food and rising household incomes but also because companies have become innovative. The market is estimated to be growing annually up to 30%, and with modern retail providing new recipes of the contemporary products, Indian and Western, a strong wave of growth is anticipated. The demand of Rice flake in the market is immense and therefore its market position is splendid. Hence it is an excellent field to venture.