In an initiative to generate more income through value-added products, the Kerala Forest Development Corporation (KFDC), a State government enterprise, is set to launch retail tea and coffee brands. According to officials, the new products will hit the market soon.

Officials noted that the KFDC operates its own tea plantations at Kambamala in Wayanad and coffee plantations in Gavi, Munnar, and Nelliampathi.

“The plan is to launch chicory-blended coffee powder and pure tea powder,” an official said. “The coffee powder will be made using organic coffee beans sourced from the KFDC-owned plantations. Meanwhile, the tea powder will be produced using leaves from both the KFDC plantation and nearby small-scale tea farmers in Mananthavady, Wayanad. Both the tea and coffee will arrive in the market in newly designed packaging.”

A social media post, jointly shared by Forests Minister Shibu Baby John and the KFDC, has invited the public to suggest names for the new retail brands. People can share their name suggestions in the comment section of the post, and those whose entries are selected will receive prizes. Officials noted that the retail branding is mainly an initiative by the Forests Minister.

“The new brands of tea and coffee will soon be available at the KFDC-operated tourism centres and Forest department-operated Vanasree markets,” the official added. “The rudraksha beads collected from the KFDC plantation in Gavi is already a highly demanded product in the eco-shops at Gavi and other locations. We plan to introduce our tea and coffee retail brands using the same model. Many tourists are already looking for the KFDC coffee and tea products. We hope this new initiative will help increase the corporation’s income while ensuring stable prices and a reliable market for our farm products.”

The KFDC manages plantation crops, ecotourism, and eco-products across six divisions Statewide, employing approximately 500 workers and 100 staff members.

Published - July 10, 2026 09:03 pm IST