author(s)
Himang Agnihotri and Jagbir Rehal

abstract
Strawberry (Fragaria ananassa) is a nutrient-rich fruit with high commercial potential, yet its perishability poses challenges for farmers and processors. India’s strawberry cultivation has expanded due to controlled-environment agriculture but post-harvest losses, inadequate infrastructure and supply chain inefficiencies hinder processing growth. The sector remains small-scale primarily producing jams and dried strawberries though demand for frozen, organic, and nutraceutical products are rising. Government initiatives like PMFME and Operation Greens support the industry, yet high processing costs, regulatory hurdles, and consumer preference for fresh strawberries remain obstacles. Future trends indicate increasing demand for organic, functional, and sustainable strawberry-based products. Technological advancements such as AI, IoT and block chain can enhance processing efficiency. Strengthening cold storage, promoting processed products, and investing in research and innovation can drive industry growth. With improved policies and market strategies, India can emerge as a key player in global strawberry processing. This review discusses the various challenges and opportunities in this segment which will help the entrepreneurs and growers to make informed decisions regarding strawberries processing.