Khyber (K2) Aquaculture, a leading producer of Himalayan trout in Jammu & Kashmir, has obtained a licence from the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) for its integrated trout farming and processing facility at Chak Akhal, Ganderbal. The approval marks a significant milestone in the company's expansion strategy and paves the way for the commercial rollout of packaged trout products across retail, HoReCa and institutional channels.
The licence authorises the manufacture, trade and retail of fish and fish products, providing the regulatory framework necessary for the processing, packaging, storage and distribution of Himalayan trout. With the approval in place, the company is preparing to introduce a range of value-added trout products while strengthening its distribution footprint in domestic markets.
The development is expected to support Khyber Aquaculture's transition from a production-focused aquaculture enterprise to a fully integrated farm-to-consumer seafood brand, leveraging its technology-driven operations, cold-chain infrastructure and sustainable farming practices.
"Securing our FSSAI licence is an important step as we move into the next phase of our business," said Yunus Trumboo, Director, Khyber Aquaculture. "Our focus now is to bring our sustainably farmed, clean and biosecure trout closer to consumers while maintaining the highest standards of freshness, quality and traceability."
The company plans to launch its initial portfolio in fresh, chilled and frozen formats, including skin-on portion cuts, Supreme Fillets and trout steaks. An expanded range comprising ready-to-cook and premium speciality products is also planned as part of its long-term growth strategy.
The FSSAI approval comes ahead of the opening of Khyber Aquaculture's first branded retail outlet in Srinagar and supports the company's plans to expand across retail, modern trade, foodservice and e-commerce channels, while pursuing international certifications and export opportunities.
