iD Foods is a household name in India’s packaged food industry, known for its range of ready-to-cook and instant food products. What started as a small home kitchen operation has now grown into a multi-million dollar business, making the brand a success story in the Indian food industry.
Born in a small village in Kerala, the Founder of iD Foods, PC Musthafa, has faced many challenges to get to where he is today. Growing up, he had limited access to resources and facilities that most urban kids take for granted. However, he was determined to make something of himself and get a good education.
Musthafa moved to Bengaluru to attend college, where he worked as a newspaper delivery boy to support himself. He studied mechanical engineering and later landed a job at a software firm, Infosys. Although the job paid well, Musthafa was unhappy with the corporate culture and wanted to do something more meaningful.
He quit his job at Infosys and started exploring business ideas. While discussing the lack of healthy and affordable breakfast options with his friend, he came up with the idea of creating ready-to-cook food products. In 2005, Musthafa and his cousins launched iD Foods with a capital of just INR 50,000.
Their first product was iD Idly, a ready-to-cook idly batter made from a mix of rice and lentils. The batter was an instant hit, and the brand started gaining popularity. Over the years, iD Foods has expanded its product range to include dosa batter, vada batter, paneer, and more.
What sets iD Foods apart from its competitors is its commitment to quality and consistency. The brand uses only high-quality ingredients and follows strict hygiene standards in its manufacturing process. Each product is carefully crafted to ensure that it meets the taste and texture standards set by Musthafa.
Today, iD Foods is a thriving business with an annual turnover of over Rs 400 crore ($55 million). The brand has a presence in over 20 countries, including the US, UK, UAE, and Australia. It has won several awards for its innovation and impact, including the Economic Times Entrepreneurship Award and the Walmart Women’s Empowerment Award.
One of the reasons for iD Foods’ success is its focus on sustainability and social impact. The brand sources its ingredients from local farmers, helping to boost rural incomes and support the local economy. It also provides employment opportunities to women, many of whom come from disadvantaged backgrounds.
iD Foods’ success story is an inspiring example of how determination, hard work, and a commitment to quality can lead to success. The brand’s founder, PC Musthafa, has shown that even with limited resources, anyone can achieve their goals with the right mindset and a willingness to take risks. Today, iD Foods is not just a successful business but also a model for sustainable and socially responsible entrepreneurship in India.
View their range of products here: iD Fresh official website
