Retort Pouch Technology for Ready to Eat Products – An Economic Analysis of Retort Processing plant

Abstract

The research reported in this paper is carried out as a part of the larger project on retort processing. Evaluation of small scale retort processing plant with a capacity of 1,20,000 pouches of Deccan Chicken Curry per year is carried out using project evaluation techniques. Data is taken from the experiments of the larger project. Financial feasibility analysis indicates that the retort processing plant is economically feasible. The plant is financially viable with an Internal Rate of Return of 72% and a Net Present Value of Rs. 1,86,62,503 discounted at 12%. Risk is also found to be less. Sensitivity analysis showed that the project is less sensitive to changes in input and output prices but sensitive to changes in Sales volume. This study may be useful for the enterprenuers interested in processing sector to get first hand information on investment opportunities in retort processed ready to eat products.