Mumbai, Mar 17: Deepanshu Manchanda, Founder and Managing Director of DSM Fresh Foods Ltd. (ZappFresh), has been appointed as a Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by the IIMSAM—an observer organization to the United Nations Economic and Social Council.
This prestigious appointment recognizes Manchanda’s contributions toward building inclusive and transparent food systems, strengthening farmer livelihoods, and advancing global nutrition and food security.
Founded in 2015, DSM Fresh Foods Ltd. has been driven by the belief that food safety, traceability, and farmer inclusion are critical to public health and economic resilience. A significant aspect of Manchanda’s work has focused on creating sustainable income opportunities for smallholder farmers, particularly women producers.
Through a collaboration with Shared Wealth Ventures LLC, a subsidiary of Heifer International, the company has implemented a backyard poultry sourcing model across Odisha, Bihar, and Andhra Pradesh. This initiative connects women-led farming households directly with organized markets while promoting improved biosecurity and premium procurement practices.
Role and Focus Areas
As Goodwill Ambassador, Manchanda will support initiatives aligned with key global priorities, including:
-
SDG 2 – Zero Hunger: Promoting sustainable and innovative nutrition solutions
-
SDG 3 – Good Health and Well-being: Raising awareness on nutrition interventions to combat malnutrition
-
SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals: Strengthening collaboration among institutions, communities, and stakeholders
Leadership Commentary
Commenting on the appointment, Deepanshu Manchanda said:
“I’m honoured by IIMSAM’s recognition. It reflects the journey we began at ZappFresh to build transparent food systems that support smallholder farmers and improve nutrition outcomes. I’m eager to contribute toward achieving Zero Hunger, better nutrition, and stronger global partnerships.”
 |