Question

Which of the following criteria that are used for screening of the New Food Product ideas?
(A). Marketability
(B). Technical feasibility
(C). Manufacturing capability
(D). Financial capability
Choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below:

• A. (A), (B) and (D) only.
• B. (A), (B) and (C) only.
• C. (A), (B), (C) and (D).
• D. (B), (C) and (D) only.

Hint:

Think of the NPD screening process as a checklist for success. A good idea must be \textbf{desirable} (marketable), \textbf{feasible} (technically possible), \textbf{viable} (financially sound), and \textbf{producible} (manufacturing capability). All aspects must be considered.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
New Product Development (NPD) is a multi-stage process. After generating ideas, the "idea screening" phase is crucial for eliminating unviable concepts before investing significant resources. This screening is based on a comprehensive set of business and technical criteria.
Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
All the listed criteria are essential for a thorough screening of new food product ideas:
- (A) Marketability: This assesses the business potential. Questions include: Is there a consumer need? Who are the target customers? What is the market size? Who are the competitors? A product that won't sell is not a viable idea.
- (B) Technical feasibility: This assesses the scientific and technological aspects. Can we actually create this product with the desired taste, texture, and shelf life? Does the technology exist?
- (C) Manufacturing capability: This assesses the operational aspect. Do we have the right equipment, facilities, and expertise to produce the product consistently and at scale? Can our existing production lines handle it?
- (D) Financial capability: This assesses the economic viability. Is the product profitable? What are the estimated costs for development, production, and marketing? Do we have the financial resources to fund the project?
Since all four are critical hurdles a new product idea must clear, they are all used in the screening process.
Step 4: Final Answer:
Marketability, technical feasibility, manufacturing capability, and financial capability are all fundamental criteria for screening new food product ideas. Therefore, option (C), which includes all four, is the correct answer.