McCain Foods and Cargill are expanding their nearly two-decade partnership in India as demand for frozen potato products — particularly French fries — continues to rise. The collaboration, announced by both companies, places innovation, sustainable sourcing and healthier product profiles at the centre of their joint strategy in one of the world’s fastest-growing frozen food markets.

India’s frozen potato category is expected to grow at a compound annual rate of 10.3% between 2025 and 2033, supported by rising incomes, rapid expansion of quick-service restaurants and greater digital access. Shifts in consumer expectations around health, nutrition, transparency and sustainability are further reshaping the category, creating opportunities for processors able to offer products with improved nutritional and environmental attributes.

McCain, a dominant player in India’s frozen potato segment, and Cargill, a key supplier of high-performance edible oils, are broadening their work together to develop next-generation oil blends and ready-to-eat alternatives aligned with these emerging trends. Both companies said that their collaboration now extends beyond volume supply to include responsiveness to market dynamics and consumer insight-driven product development.

A notable outcome of the partnership has been McCain’s transition to 100% RSPO Segregated palm oil across its India portfolio — described by the company as a first for the country’s frozen foods sector. Cargill acted as the enabling supply partner for this shift, which McCain says strengthens its sustainability commitments and positions the brand as an industry pioneer in responsible sourcing.

India’s health-and-wellness food segment is projected to grow at a CAGR of 18.5% through 2031, prompting manufacturers to adjust product formulations while maintaining quality and convenience. McCain and Cargill are co-developing soft-oil blends intended to deliver improved product profiles and consistent fry performance for the QSR sector, a key driver of growth for frozen potato processors.

Mainak Dhar, Managing Director, McCain Foods India, said:
“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. 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.”

Dheeraj Talreja, Vice President and Managing Director, Food South Asia at Cargill, added:
“Our partnership with McCain reflects the power of collaboration and innovation. Together, we’ve built trusted solutions that advance 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.”

Both companies say their expanded collaboration sets new benchmarks for India’s frozen food industry by combining sustainable sourcing with consumer-driven innovation, particularly as QSR expansion and evolving shopper expectations reshape the demand profile for frozen potato products.