KIST entered into a partnership with the Scaling Up Nutrition People’s Forum (SUNPF) for Sri Lanka’s first-ever Fruit Festival, at the Colombo Public Library premises, on February 21 and 22.
This event emphasised the importance of incorporating local fruits into daily life and highlight the sustainable practices driving Sri Lanka’s agricultural sector.
“As a member of the Cargills Group, KIST has long been committed to supporting local farmers and ensuring the highest quality standards in its products,” said Arjuna Kumarasinghe, Managing Director of Cargills Food and Beverage Ltd.
At the Fruit Festival, KIST showcased its diverse range of fruit-based offerings, including fruit beverages, jams, and sauces, all crafted from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. By sourcing these fruits directly from farmers, KIST ensures they receive fair prices for their produce, fostering a stable marketplace while supporting local agriculture.
A key part of this initiative is the KIST plant in Kilinochchi, a women-led facility that plays a vital role in processing locally harvested fruits. It maintains the highest quality standards and provides employment opportunities to the local community, contributing to the growth of the region and empowering local families.
Visitors to the Fruit Festival had the opportunity to experience the richness of Sri Lanka’s local fruit industry and gain insight into the positive impact KIST is making on local communities, while offering a range of quality fruit-based products to Sri Lankan consumers to experience their favourite fruits throughout the year.
