Local food products at the heart of Croatian army meals

(Photo: MORH/J. Kopi)

Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Ivan Anušić visited the headquarters of leading Croatian food company Podravka on Monday, highlighting the importance of domestic food production for the Croatian Armed Forces.

Accompanied by Podravka CEO Martina Dalić and her executive team, Minister Anušić toured the company’s facilities and discussed opportunities for deeper cooperation.

The visit underscored the Ministry of Defence’s commitment to supporting Croatian producers in providing meals for soldiers and future conscripts.

“The modernisation of our armed forces doesn’t end with equipment and weapons. Nutrition plays a crucial role, especially as we prepare for the return of basic military training. Ensuring high-quality, Croatian-made food products is a key priority for us,”

(Photo: MORH/J. Kopi)

Anušić stated, noting the strategic importance of food self-sufficiency, particularly in times of crisis or instability.

Currently, Pleter, the state-run company responsible for preparing meals for the military, sources around 70 percent of its food from Croatian producers—with a significant share supplied by Podravka.

Praising Podravka’s impressive business performance, Anušić expressed confidence in the company’s capacity to meet the growing nutritional demands of the armed forces.

“We see potential for even stronger cooperation with Podravka, a company whose business results speak for themselves,” he said.

(Photo: MORH/J. Kopi)

In 2024, Podravka reported revenues exceeding €766 million, excluding newly acquired companies. CEO Martina Dalić affirmed the company’s readiness to expand its role in supplying the Croatian military, reinforcing its commitment to local partnerships.

Martina Puljić, CEO of Pleter, also joined the minister on the visit and emphasised the importance of continuing collaboration with domestic firms. “We place great value on our cooperation with Croatian producers like Podravka, ensuring quality and reliability in every meal we serve,” she said.

(Photo: MORH/J. Kopi)

The visit marks a renewed focus on supporting Croatian industry while ensuring the nutritional needs of the country’s soldiers are met with quality, home-grown products.