The Central Food Technological Research Institute at Mysore, popularly known as 'CFTRI' was established in the year 1950 under the aegis of the Council of Scientific & Industrial Research, New Delhi, Government of India. Since its inception, CFTRI has been in the forefront of Indian food processing scene striving to meet the ever increasing food and nutritional demands of the population and technological requirements of the Food Industries with firm academic linkages.

In the early years, CFTRI's major concern was minimising post-harvest losses of food commodities through effective processing and storage techniques to extend the food availability. Towards this goal, the Institute had developed number of primary processing techniques. CFTRI's integrated approach of optimising harvesting conditions, post-harvest treatments, appropriate packing and storage systems has been of significant help in keeping fruits and vegetables fresh for longer periods, thus facilitating their safe transport to distant markets. CFTRI's pioneering work in utilising unconventional and hitherto untapped sources like oilseed cakes has resulted in inexpensive protein rich formulations that are being used by the Government and other agencies in nutritional intervention programmes aimed at improving the nutritional status of vulnerable groups. MILTONE, the milk toned with groundnut protein developed by the Institute achieved international laurels. AMUL, the world's first infant food formulation based on buffalo milk laid foundation to self-reliant baby food manufacturing industry in the country.

Over the years, CFTRI grew in its strength and capabilities to meet the challenges constantly emerging due to changes in national and global scenario. Today, the Institute has earned the distinction as "one-stop centre" for food science and technology with R&D expertise and excellence in all the related disciplines. Besides providing know-how on about 300 processes and equipment developed by it, the Institute also aids entrepreneurs in their new ventures, expansion and diversification programmes by providing services such as technical consultancy and counselling, project identification and evaluation, feasibility studies and surveys. CFTRI is a recognised partner to various Government agencies and regulatory organisations like PFA, FPO, BIS and Codex Alimentarius in the pursuit of quality assurance, food safety and consumer protection. The institute has also played a commendable role in providing manpower to various food industries through its Human Resource Development programmes.