Friday, December 19, 2025
Home Blog Page 1141

Experience gluten-free bliss: Mumbai’s 9 best restaurants for healthy and tasty eats with your gang – Don’t miss out! 

0
gluten free restaurant

When it comes to finding delectable gluten-free dishes in Mumbai, a city known for its diverse culinary scene, there are several standout restaurants that cater to the dietary needs of gluten-intolerant individuals without compromising on taste or flavor. These establishments go above and beyond to provide a delightful dining experience with a wide range of gluten-free options. 

From health-conscious eateries to restaurants specializing in international cuisine, Mumbai offers a variety of choices for gluten-free enthusiasts. Whether you’re a local or a visitor to the city, here are nine of the best restaurants in Mumbai that excel in crafting delicious gluten-free dishes, ensuring a memorable culinary journey for all.

9 best restaurants in Mumbai for delectable gluten-free dishes-

  1. Rivea, Taj Santacruz: Located in the luxurious Taj Santacruz hotel, Rivea is a culinary gem that offers a delightful dining experience with its gluten-free offerings. With a focus on Mediterranean cuisine, this restaurant showcases a menu filled with fresh and vibrant flavors. From gluten-free salads and seafood dishes to gluten-free pasta and risotto, Rivea provides a memorable gluten-free dining experience in an elegant setting.
  1. Woodside Inn: Woodside Inn is a popular gastropub in Mumbai that has gained a reputation for its relaxed atmosphere and diverse menu. They offer a separate gluten-free menu, ensuring that gluten-intolerant patrons have plenty of options to choose from. From gluten-free pizzas and burgers to salads and appetizers, Woodside Inn caters to gluten-free dietary needs while maintaining the utmost taste and quality.
  1. Ziya, The Oberoi: Ziya, situated in the renowned Oberoi hotel, is a fine dining restaurant that specializes in contemporary Indian cuisine. With its commitment to providing a memorable gastronomic experience, Ziya offers an array of gluten-free options. From gluten-free bread and rice-based dishes to gluten-free desserts, every dish at Ziya is carefully crafted to showcase the richness and diversity of Indian flavors.
  1. Slink and Barot: Nestled in the bustling neighborhood of Bandra, Slink and Barot is a hidden gem for gluten-free dining. This cozy and intimate restaurant focuses on serving modern European cuisine with a twist. Their gluten-free menu features a variety of delectable options, including gluten-free bread, pasta, and main courses that are prepared with fresh, seasonal ingredients.
  1. Bombay Baking Company, JW Marriott: Located in the JW Marriott hotel, the Bombay Baking Company is a haven for gluten-free enthusiasts with a sweet tooth. This charming bakery offers a range of gluten-free baked goods, including bread, cakes, cookies, and pastries. Their skilled pastry chefs ensure that every gluten-free creation is deliciously satisfying and visually appealing.
  1. Foo: Situated in the heart of Mumbai, Foo is a contemporary Asian restaurant that caters to gluten-free diners. With a fusion of flavors from different Asian cuisines, Foo offers gluten-free options that are both flavorful and visually stunning. From gluten-free sushi rolls to stir-fries and curries, every dish at Foo is crafted with precision and creativity.
  1. Smoke House Deli: Known for its casual and vibrant ambiance, Smoke House Deli is a popular eatery that provides gluten-free alternatives. Their extensive menu includes gluten-free options for breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner. From gluten-free sandwiches and salads to gluten-free mains and desserts, Smoke House Deli ensures a delightful experience for gluten-intolerant individuals.
  1. PA PA YA: PA PA YA is a modern Asian bistro that offers a contemporary take on traditional Asian flavors. With a dedicated gluten-free menu, this restaurant ensures that gluten-intolerant guests can savor their dishes without any worry. From gluten-free sushi and dim sum to gluten-free noodles and wok-tossed delicacies, PA PA YA guarantees an exceptional gluten-free dining experience.
  1. Poco Loco Tapas and Bar: Poco Loco Tapas and Bar is a vibrant and lively restaurant that specializes in Spanish and Mediterranean cuisine. With an emphasis on sharing plates, this establishment offers a separate gluten-free menu featuring an array of gluten-free tapas, paellas, and grilled dishes. Poco Loco Tapas and Bar provides a convivial atmosphere where gluten-intolerant diners can indulge in flavorsome gluten-free delights.
Advertisement

Shocking revelation: The hidden dangers of mixing carbonated beverages and fast food – Are you risking your health?

0
carbonated beverages and fast food

Fast food and carbonated beverages have become a staple in the modern diet. They are convenient, tasty, and readily available. However, recent research has shed light on the hidden dangers of combining these two popular indulgences. While the occasional treat may not seem harmful, regularly consuming fast food and carbonated beverages together can have serious implications for your health.

The Immediate Effects of Mixing Carbonated Beverages and Fast Food

When carbonated beverages are consumed with fast food, several immediate effects can occur. These effects can have a negative impact on your overall well-being and quality of life.

  • Increased Caloric Intake: Fast food is often high in calories, and carbonated beverages can contribute a significant amount of additional calories due to their sugar content. Consuming both together can lead to excessive calorie consumption, which can contribute to weight gain and other health issues.
  • Poor Nutritional Value: Fast food and carbonated beverages are typically low in essential nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Consuming them together can result in a meal that lacks the necessary nutrients for optimal health.
  • Digestive Distress: Fast food is notorious for its high fat and sodium content, which can cause digestive discomfort. Carbonated beverages, particularly those containing artificial sweeteners, can also contribute to gastrointestinal issues such as bloating and gas.
  • Blood Sugar Imbalance: Carbonated beverages, especially those high in sugar, can cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels. When consumed with fast food, which often contains refined carbohydrates, this can lead to a surge in blood sugar followed by a crash in blood sugar levels. This rollercoaster effect can leave you feeling tired, sluggish, and can disrupt your body’s natural insulin response.

Long-Term Health Risks

The dangers of regularly combining carbonated beverages and fast food extend beyond the immediate effects. Chronic consumption of this combination can lead to various long-term health risks that should not be overlooked.

  • Obesity and Weight Gain: Fast food and carbonated beverages are known contributors to obesity and weight gain. Both are often high in calories, unhealthy fats, and added sugars. Regularly consuming these together can lead to an excessive calorie intake, which can contribute to weight gain and increase the risk of obesity-related health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and certain cancers.
  • Increased Risk of Chronic Diseases: The consumption of fast food and carbonated beverages has been linked to an increased risk of developing chronic diseases. These include cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic syndrome. The combination of unhealthy fats, excess sugar, and refined carbohydrates in fast food and carbonated beverages can contribute to inflammation, insulin resistance, and other metabolic dysfunctions that are precursors to these conditions.
  • Dental Issues: Carbonated beverages, particularly soda, are highly acidic and contain sugars that can erode tooth enamel and contribute to tooth decay. When consumed in combination with fast food, which often lacks the necessary fiber and nutrients for oral health, the risk of dental issues such as cavities and gum disease is further exacerbated.
  • Nutrient Deficiencies: Fast food and carbonated beverages are typically devoid of essential nutrients. Regularly consuming this combination can result in nutrient deficiencies, as these meals often lack vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber. Over time, these deficiencies can lead to compromised immune function, poor bone health, and other health complications.

The hidden dangers of mixing carbonated beverages and fast food are a cause for concern. Regular consumption of this combination can lead to immediate effects such as increased caloric intake, poor nutrition, digestive distress, and blood sugar imbalances. 

Moreover, the long-term health risks include obesity, chronic diseases, dental issues, and nutrient deficiencies. By making conscious choices, opting for healthier alternatives, practicing moderation, and adopting mindful eating habits, you can reduce the potential health risks associated with this harmful combination. Prioritizing a balanced and nutritious diet will contribute to your overall well-being and long-term health.

Advertisement

Discover the surprising truth: Should professionals really start their day with tea or coffee?

0
tea or coffee

Coffee has become an integral part of the lives of working professionals, transcending from a mere beverage to a symbol of productivity and trendiness. In the fast-paced world we live in, where time is a precious commodity, coffee has emerged as a lifeline that working professionals can’t do without. It’s no longer just a morning ritual or a pick-me-up; it has become a necessity, an essential source of energy and focus. Coffee has seamlessly blended into the fabric of our daily routines, evolving into more than just a functional drink. It has become a fashion statement, with trendy coffee shops and aesthetically pleasing latte art taking social media by storm. The allure of coffee extends beyond its caffeine content. It has become a trend, with an array of specialty brews, artisanal blends, and unique brewing methods captivating the taste buds of coffee enthusiasts. 

However, like any other indulgence, coffee has its pros and cons. 

On the positive side, coffee can enhance alertness, improve focus, and boost productivity. It stimulates the central nervous system, providing a surge of energy and reducing the feeling of fatigue. Coffee also contains antioxidants that may offer some health benefits. On the other hand, excessive coffee consumption can lead to dependency, disrupted sleep patterns, and potential digestive issues. Each individual’s body reacts differently to coffee, with some experiencing increased heart rate or jitteriness. 

How Does Coffee React to Your Body Early in the Morning? 

  • Tea or coffee consumed in the morning can provide an energy boost due to their caffeine content.
  • Caffeine stimulates the central nervous system, enhancing alertness and combating sleepiness.
  • Coffee has a stimulating effect on the digestive system, potentially promoting bowel movements.
  • Tea and coffee may have a mild diuretic effect, leading to increased urination.
  • Caffeine can improve mood, concentration, and cognitive performance.
  • It can temporarily increase heart rate and blood pressure, but these effects are usually mild.
  • Caffeine’s effects can linger in the body, affecting sleep if consumed too close to bedtime.

Cons of Coffee on Body

  1. Excessive Consumption: Consuming excessive amounts of coffee can lead to negative effects on metabolism. 
  1. Added Ingredients: Be cautious of adding excessive sweeteners, creams, or syrups to your coffee. These additions can contribute to calorie intake and potentially lead to weight gain or metabolic imbalances.
  1. Dependency and Tolerance: Regularly relying on coffee for an energy boost may lead to caffeine dependence. Over time, your body may build up tolerance, requiring higher amounts of caffeine to achieve the same effects. This can disrupt natural metabolic functioning.
  1. Blood Sugar and Insulin Response: Some studies suggest that caffeine consumption can affect blood sugar levels and insulin sensitivity. This can impact how the body metabolizes carbohydrates and regulates glucose levels.
  1. Individual Sensitivity: Every individual’s response to coffee can vary. Some people may be more sensitive to caffeine, experiencing increased heart rate or anxiety, which can indirectly affect metabolism.
  1. Balanced Approach: It’s important to maintain a balanced approach to coffee consumption. Pairing it with a healthy lifestyle that includes a balanced diet, regular exercise, sufficient sleep, and stress management is key for overall metabolic health.

What’s the Best Time to Consume Tea/Coffee? 

The best time to drink tea or coffee depends on individual preferences and lifestyle factors. For many people, a cup of coffee in the morning provides a much-needed energy boost to kickstart the day. The caffeine content can help increase alertness and focus. However, it’s important to be mindful of potential sleep disturbances if consumed too late in the day. Tea, on the other hand, offers a range of options with varying caffeine levels. Some people enjoy a cup of tea in the morning as a gentler alternative to coffee, while others prefer it throughout the day. Herbal teas, which are caffeine-free, are a great choice in the evening when seeking relaxation. Ultimately, the best time to enjoy tea or coffee is when it aligns with personal taste preferences and doesn’t interfere with sleep patterns or daily activities.

Best Alternatives for Tea/Coffee

  1. Herbal teas: Herbal teas are made from herbs, flowers, and fruits, and they come in a wide variety of flavors. Examples include chamomile, peppermint, hibiscus, and rooibos. Herbal teas are typically caffeine-free and can be enjoyed throughout the day.
  2. Green tea: Green tea contains caffeine but in lower amounts compared to coffee. It is known for its antioxidant properties and potential health benefits. Green tea can be enjoyed hot or cold and comes in various flavors.
  3. Matcha: Matcha is a type of powdered green tea that has gained popularity for its unique taste and high concentration of antioxidants. It provides a calm energy boost due to its caffeine content.
  4. Decaffeinated coffee: If you enjoy the taste of coffee but want to reduce your caffeine intake, decaffeinated coffee is an option. It undergoes a process to remove most of the caffeine while retaining the flavor.
  5. Chai: Chai is a spiced tea typically made with black tea, milk, and a blend of spices such as cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, and ginger. It offers a flavorful and aromatic alternative to regular tea or coffee.
  6. Hot chocolate: Hot chocolate is a comforting and indulgent beverage made from cocoa powder or melted chocolate mixed with milk or water.
  7. Fruit-infused water: For those who prefer non-caffeinated options, fruit-infused water is a refreshing choice. Simply add slices of fruits like citrus, berries, or cucumber to water and let it infuse for a flavorful and hydrating drink.
Advertisement

Zomato reports 72% of cash-on-delivery orders paid with INR 2,000 notes since RBI announcement

0
zomato
Zomato (Representative Image)

Zomato, the leading food delivery service, revealed that an impressive 72% of cash on delivery users paid for their orders with INR 2,000 notes since Friday.

On Monday, Zomato tweeted, “since friday, 72% of our cash on delivery orders were paid in ₹2000 notes”.

The disclosure follows the recent announcement by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on May 19 regarding the phased withdrawal of INR 2,000 denomination notes from circulation by September 30. In response to the announcement, there has been a surge among Indians to dispose of their INR 2,000 currency notes.

Despite the ongoing withdrawal process, the central bank has clarified that INR 2,000 notes will remain as legal tender.

The RBI has also stated that the public has the option to deposit INR 2,000 banknotes into their bank accounts or exchange them for banknotes of different denominations at any bank branch.

On Twitter, users shared Zomato’s tweet and added their own perspectives. One user humorously commented, “Queuing up outside ATMs is so 2016.”

Another user tagged Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and said, “@nsitharamanoffc, now you know where to look for all the rest of the missing 2000 rupees notes.”

Following the RBI’s announcement, Zomato playfully took a jab at the development, stating, “kids: exchange ₹2000 note at bank, adults: order cash on delivery and give ₹2000 note, legends: never had ₹2000 note”.

On November 8, 2016, during a televised address at 8 pm, Prime Minister Narendra Modi declared the demonetisation of INR 500 and INR 1,000 banknotes, effective from midnight. To replace these high-denomination notes, the central bank introduced the INR 2,000 banknote, necessitating banks to recalibrate their ATMs to accommodate the new size.

The central bank ceased printing INR 2,000 notes in 2018-19. The total value of INR 2,000 banknotes in circulation has decreased to INR 3.62 lakh crore, accounting for just 10.8% of the total notes in circulation as of the end of March. At its highest point in March 2018, the denomination’s total value in circulation reached INR 6.73 lakh crore.

Advertisement

DrinkPrime’s growth rate soars, secures Tracxn’s ‘Emerging Startup Awards 2023’ accolade

0
DrinkPrime
DrinkPrime, backed by notable investors such as Omidyar Network India, Sequoia Surge, and 9 Unicorns, experienced a remarkable growth rate of 330% last year. (Representative Image)

DrinkPrime, an IoT-enabled water purifier on subscription, has been recognized as one of the leading online rental tech startups in Tracxn’s ‘Emerging Startup Awards 2023’.

It has achieved this recognition in the ‘Minicorns’ category, which represents early-stage companies with the potential to become unicorns in the future. This acknowledgment reinforces DrinkPrime’s status as a fast-growing disruptor in the industry and showcases its dedication to delivering innovative solutions that improve the lives of its subscribers.

DrinkPrime, backed by notable investors such as Omidyar Network India, Sequoia Surge, and 9 Unicorns, experienced a remarkable growth rate of 330% last year. Tracxn’s selection process, which considers factors like market size, investment, execution excellence, and future growth potential, recognized DrinkPrime’s outstanding performance.

Vijender Reddy Muthyala, Co-Founder and CEO, DrinkPrime, said, “We are incredibly honoured to receive Tracxn’s Top Online Rental Tech Startup Award. Our mission is to provide clean, safe and healthy drinking water to all. We knew from the beginning that subscription is the way to improve secure drinking water access in India. We provided five crore litres of safe drinking water to our one lakh+ users in 2022. In the upcoming years, we look forward to making it accessible and affordable to 70% of India using IoT and our subscription model.”

DrinkPrime was established to tackle the issue of obtaining clean and safe drinking water. They recognized that a significant portion of the water sold in plastic cans is unsuitable for consumption, and fewer than 10% of Indians own a water purifier. Motivated by the scale of the problem, DrinkPrime began their mission seven years ago. Today, they serve over one lakh users across seven cities, ensuring they have reliable access to clean and safe drinking water.

DrinkPrime’s commitment to utilizing IoT technology in their pursuit of making safe drinking water accessible in India has garnered recognition from Tracxn. This Bengaluru-based startup continues to impress with their consistent efforts, adding over 4000 subscribers every month. By harnessing the power of the Internet of Things (IoT), DrinkPrime moves closer to their mission of ensuring clean, safe, and healthy drinking water for all.

Advertisement

FSSAI assessing WHO’s red flag on sugar substitutes, potential impact on sales of diet and no-sugar products

0
non-sugar sweeteners
According to WHO's statement, non-sugar sweeteners (NSS) are not essential components of the diet and lack nutritional value. (Representative Image)

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is evaluating the recent guideline issued by the World Health Organization (WHO). The guideline highlights that non-sugar sweeteners such as aspartame and stevia do not aid in weight loss and may increase the risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.

Read More: WHO’s latest guideline advises against using artificial sweeteners for weight management

“Our scientific panel is examining and evaluating the WHO guideline in detail,” a spokesperson of the national foods regulator said.

Non-sugar sweeteners are commonly used by prominent Indian brands of soft drinks, breakfast cereals, ice creams, and juices as purported “healthy” alternatives to sugar.

Coca-Cola, PepsiCo, Kellogg, and Dabur, which promote products such as Coke Zero, Diet Coke, Pepsi Black, Special K, and Chyawanprakash as “low-calorie options,” have declined to comment on the matter.

According to executives, the implementation of similar guidelines in India could have a substantial impact on the sales of various products, including aerated drinks, ice creams, cookies, chyawanprash, confectionery, and artificial sweeteners like Sugar Free, which are marketed as healthier alternatives for cooking.

No restrictions on use currently:

“If the FSSAI makes any labelling change about mentioning warnings on products containing non-sugar sweeteners, it will definitely impact consumption of diet and no-sugar foods and drinks, as now consumers do read labels and contents regularly,” said RS Sodhi, President of the Indian Dairy Association, Adviser to Reliance Retail and former Managing Director of dairy brand Amul.

Health groups have hailed the decision as long-awaited, emphasizing the importance of educating consumers about the usage of non-sugar sweeteners. They believe this step is crucial, especially as the demand for such food and beverage products has been rising due to growing health consciousness.

Read More: Bournvita refutes social media influencer’s high sugar content claims, deems video ‘unscientific’

Ashim Sanyal, Chief Operating Officer of Consumer Voice, called on FSSAI to adopt the WHO recommendations and impose a “restrictive use only” formulation regulation on such products. “The myth has been busted about the benefits of artificial sweeteners which are extensively used as a body fitness formula,” said the head of the consumer rights group.

To date, the FSSAI has not imposed any limitations on the utilization of sweeteners in India. However, this development coincides with the regulator’s proposal to enforce front-of-pack labeling on packaged foods, indicating the salt, sugar, and fat content.

Read More: Zerodha CEO Nithin Kamath calls for front-of-pack labeling amid Bournvita controversy

In India, the demand for diet and no-sugar beverages and food products has been witnessing double-digit growth, fueled by extensive marketing efforts by companies. Zydus Wellness, the manufacturer of Sugar Free, has previously stated in interviews that their artificial sweetener brand has experienced double-digit growth, particularly during the Covid-19 pandemic, as consumers increasingly reduce their sugar consumption.

The World Health Organization (WHO), referring to the guideline as “conditional,” stated that it is one among several existing and upcoming guidelines related to healthy diets.

“Replacing free sugars with non-sugar sweeteners (NSS) does not help with weight control in the long term,” Francesco Branca, WHO director for nutrition and food safety, said in a detailed note released by the health organisation on May 15. “People need to consider other ways to reduce free sugars intake, such as consuming food with naturally occurring sugars, like fruit, or unsweetened food and beverages.”

According to the statement, non-sugar sweeteners (NSS) are not essential components of the diet and lack nutritional value.

“People should reduce the sweetness of the diet altogether, starting early in life, to improve their health,” Branca said in the note, available on WHO’s website.

The World Health Organization (WHO) stated that their recommendations are grounded in available evidence and encompass a wide range of sweeteners, both synthetic and natural, such as aspartame, saccharin, sucralose, and stevia.

Advertisement

Amazon Fresh expands presence in India, now serving 60 cities with fresh food delivery

0
amazonfresh
Amazon Fresh (Representative Image)

Amazon Fresh, on Monday, declared its expansion to 60 cities in India and reiterated its commitment to delivering fresh and high-quality fruits and vegetables.

The ecommerce giant’s grocery delivery service in India offers an assortment of fruits, vegetables, chilled products, baby care items, personal care products, and pet care goods. Customers enjoy free shipping on orders worth INR 249 or more, and deliveries are fulfilled within the same day or the next day.

According to Srikant Sree Ram, Head of Amazon Fresh, the quick commerce division of Amazon expanded its presence to 50 cities last month, as reported by The Hindu Businessline.

Srikant Sree Ram further stated that more than half of Amazon Fresh’s customer base comprises individuals from Tier II and III markets, including Chandigarh, Thiruvananthapuram, and Kochi. These markets play a crucial role for Amazon Fresh’s operations.

“With this expansion, customers across India can purchase high-quality fresh fruits and vegetables delivered to them at their doorstep. We have seen good demand for seasonal products like mangoes and summer essentials this season and will continue to remain laser-focused on providing our growing customer base across the country the best online shopping experience,” Srikant Sree Ram said in a statement.

In the past three years, the quick commerce sector has experienced significant growth, with major players such as BigBasket, Swiggy Instamart, Blinkit, and Zepto securing substantial funding. However, this sector is known for its slim profit margins, making it a capital-intensive venture that requires substantial cash flow.

In their pursuit of profitability, quick commerce firms are undertaking significant measures. Reliance-owned JioMart ceased its express delivery operations last month, and Ola, a mobility firm, shut down Ola Dash in June of the previous year.

Meanwhile, Swiggy’s Instamart, Zomato’s Blinkit, and Bigbasket’s BBNow, among other similar businesses, are exploring strategies to minimize losses. They aim to boost order values and extend delivery timelines in order to improve profitability.

Last month, Zepto, a startup backed by Y Combinator, made a notable move by appointing Ramesh Bafna, the former CFO of Zilingo, as its CFO. With this strategic hire, Zepto expressed its intentions to prepare for an initial public offering (IPO) within the next two to three years.

Advertisement

Zomato’s CFO projects unchanged average order values in the food delivery sector for the next year

0
Zomato
(Representative Image)

The food delivery sector is expected to experience unchanged average order values (AOV) over the next year, as projected by Zomato’s CFO, Akshant Goyal, even with steady food inflation.

Zomato’s average order value (AOV) has seen a slight increase over the past year, growing by 2 percent from INR 398 in FY22 to INR 407 in FY23. This growth occurred despite fluctuations in the food inflation index, which ranged between 4.2 percent and 8.2 percent during that period.

“Inflation has been pretty range bound for the last few months, but I think AOV is still strong and if at all, trending upwards. So at this point, it feels like if you look forward to next year, you don’t expect the AOVs to fall. Maybe they will remain flat,” Goyal said in a post-earnings call with analysts.

In the March quarter, Zomato experienced a decline of around 1 percent in the gross order value of its food delivery business, amounting to INR 6,569 crore. This decrease can be attributed to both the industry-wide slowdown and Zomato’s withdrawal from 225 cities in the preceding quarter.

According to Zomato’s earnings report for the March quarter, the average monthly transacting users (MTUs) decreased sequentially from 17.4 million to 16.6 million.

Zomato’s management attributed the decline in average monthly transacting users (MTUs) to the reintroduction of its loyalty program, known as Zomato Gold, during the quarter.

“Because of Zomato Gold, actually the MTU number has come down and not gone up. We are seeing an impact of clubbing some orders in the same households which might have just a single membership. Zomato Gold, in fact, we think has led to a reduction in MTUs and not an increase. While the order frequency goes up, the number of people ordering typically goes down,” Goyal explained on the call.

In response to a question regarding Zomato’s average commission from restaurants, the company expressed its expectation of an increasing take-rate in the future. Zomato believes that as eateries recognize more value from their partnership with the food delivery platform, the average commission is likely to rise.

“We want the commission rates to be competitive and we still think we are lower than what the competition is charging. So, I think as we continue to add more value to restaurant businesses, we expect some improvement in commission revenue going forward,” said Goyal.

According to Zomato’s regulatory filing, the company’s revenue from operations amounted to INR 2,056 crore, reflecting a significant increase of 69.66 percent compared to INR 1,211.8 crore in the corresponding quarter of the previous year.

During the March quarter, Zomato reported that its business, excluding quick commerce, achieved positive adjusted EBITDA. The food delivery segment played a significant role, contributing INR 78 crore in EBITDA. Zomato also outlined its objective of attaining positive adjusted EBITDA and PAT on a consolidated basis, including quick commerce, within the next four quarters.

Zomato’s Co-founder, Deepinder Goyal, stated that the company plans to achieve its goal by boosting profits in the food delivery business and minimizing losses in the quick commerce (Blinkit) business.

Advertisement

Bonn Group unveils nutrient-rich millet-based bread, redefining healthy bakery choices in India

0
bonngroup
Bonn Group's initiative involves introducing a diverse range of millet-based bread and bakery products, aimed at promoting millets and offering Indians a nutrient-rich diet.

Bonn Group of Industries, a leading FMCG manufacturer in India, has launched a lineup of bakery products known as Bonn Millet. These include Millet Bread, Millet Pizza, and Millet Burger, packed with the goodness of Jowar, Bajra, and Ragi. These nutrient-rich superfoods offer essential benefits and are a healthy source of nourishment.

With their brand tagline “Go Healthy With Millets,” Bonn Group of Industries has taken a proactive step to support the International Millets Year and the Indian government’s Millet Mission. Their initiative involves introducing a diverse range of millet-based bread and bakery products, aimed at promoting millets and offering Indians a nutrient-rich diet.

Speaking on the launch, Amrinder Singh, Director, Bonn Group of Industries said, “Our brand’s objective has always been to provide naturally healthy bread and bakery products that have multiple health benefits. The year being declared as International Millet Year by WHO has given brands like us yet another opportunity to introduce something healthy like Millet bread for our consumers that is cholesterol-free, trans-fat-free, a source of protein, is good for digestion, contains high fiber and helps people achieve and maintain a healthy weight, low in GI. The launch gives a fresh perception of the values and character represented by our products. The product has been developed after extensive consumer research and we are confident that it will soon be the preferred choice in its category amongst all healthy snack lovers.”

Dawinder Pal, Marketing Head, Bonn Group said, “The launch of Millet bread and bakery products is in conjunction with Bonn’s Mission Millet initiative. With Mission Millet, we have embarked on a journey to build a culture of millet consumption through an exciting range of product portfolio. The new millet products are an integral step towards that mission. We believe that these millet bakery items will not only satisfy the taste buds of our consumers but also have nutrients.”

Bonn Millet Bread is priced at INR 50 for a 300g pack. Bonn Millets Pizza base comes in a 200g pack, priced at INR 50, while the burger pack weighs 160g and is priced at INR 30. These products will be available in select outlets in Delhi-NCR, Punjab, and Chandigarh.

The bakery industry in India, being a significant segment of the food processing sector, presents vast opportunities for growth, innovation, and job creation, aligning with the brand’s primary objectives.

Advertisement

Vahdam CEO urges India to capitalize on high-quality tea by promoting indigenous brands

0
Vahdam CEO Bala Sarda
Vahdam CEO Bala Sarda (File photo)

Vahdam CEO Bala Sarda, speaking on International Tea Day, urged India to move beyond tea supply and start selling its high-quality tea under indigenous labels. He highlighted the success of foreign brands in capitalizing on this opportunity and emphasized the need for India to follow suit.

Sarda, whose homegrown tea company is making waves internationally with endorsements from notable figures such as Oprah Winfrey, Ellen Degeneres, and Mariah Carey, expressed his disappointment that there are more European brands selling Darjeeling tea and American brands selling Chai worldwide than Indian brands.

“I think we as consumers have always trusted origin products. For example, wine from France and whiskey from Scotland. But for some reason, European brands are selling more Darjeeling tea, and American brands are selling more Chai than any Indian brand was even doing remotely.

“For India to be recognised as a country, which is trusted, which is a superpower we need global brands to come out of India… I think it is just about taking Indian teas through an Indian brand and you know, convincing consumers to have that,” he said.

For the unversed, India holds the distinction of being the world’s second-largest producer and consumer of tea. It commands a significant presence in the global tea industry, accounting for nearly 25-28 percent of the world’s tea production and contributing approximately 10-12 percent to global tea exports.

Sarda noted that despite India’s potential to lead the multi-billion dollar global tea market, the absence of indigenous brands has resulted in the country exporting tea as a “commodity” at meager profit margins. This has allowed foreign importers to package and sell the tea at significantly higher margins, benefiting from the value addition that Indian brands have missed out on for a long time.

With the introduction of brands like Vahdam and others, Sarda highlighted that India is now able to retain the value that was previously being directed to foreign nations.

“You know the average tea export price is nothing more than four and a half dollars per kg. We at Vahdam sell to consumers at multiple times higher price points per kg. And it’s not that consumers were anyways not paying for that. Just the only difference because of a brand like us is that value is retained in India, versus that value which was being spread out in a foreign land,” he explained.

As a fourth-generation entrepreneur with a family legacy of tea retailing and exporting spanning 90 years, Sarda draws inspiration from Sri Lanka and advocates for India to adopt similar strategies to enhance its tea industry.

Sarda pointed out that Sri Lanka, ranked among the top five global tea producers, experienced a similar predicament in the 1980s. However, the rise of local brands like Dilmah and others turned the tide as they took control of the situation and began selling their indigenous tea worldwide.

“I think Sri Lanka is a great example. In the 1980s, they were also exporting their tea as a commodity and all the value was being retained by foreign brands who would take Sri Lankan tea. Later, a plethora of brands came up and took charge and promoted Sri Lankan tea packed in Sri Lanka from Sri Lanka. This helped the industry massively and now the Srilankan tea industry is one of the highest contributors to their GDP,” he said.

Vahdam, with a majority of its business originating from the United States, Canada, and select European countries, currently serves over four million customers in more than 130 countries through its global shipping operations.

Advertisement