Friday, December 19, 2025
Home Blog Page 1244

How to make healthy choices when eating out with colleagues?

0
food choices

Eating out with colleagues can be a challenging experience for those trying to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Restaurant menus are often filled with high-calorie, high-fat, and high-sodium options that can derail even the best intentions. However, with a little planning and mindful decision-making, it is possible to make healthy choices when eating out with colleagues.

Here are tips to help you make healthy choices when eating out with colleagues.

1. Plan Ahead and do research:

Before heading out to eat with colleagues, take some time to research the restaurant and menu options. Many restaurants have menus available online, and you can review them beforehand to identify healthy choices. Some restaurants even have nutrition information available on their website or upon request, which can help you make informed decisions about what to order.

2. Look for healthy options on the menu:

When reviewing the menu, look for dishes that are grilled, baked, or steamed instead of fried. Opt for dishes with lean protein, such as grilled chicken, fish, or tofu. Choose dishes with whole grains, such as brown rice or quinoa, instead of refined grains like white rice or pasta. Avoid dishes with creamy or buttery sauces, and instead, opt for dishes with tomato-based sauces or olive oil.

3. Choose lean proteins and whole grains:

Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, and whole grains are an excellent source of fiber and other essential nutrients. Choose dishes with lean protein sources like grilled chicken, fish, tofu, or legumes. These options are lower in saturated fat and calories than dishes with red meat or processed meats like bacon or sausage. When choosing grains, opt for whole grains like brown rice, quinoa, or whole-grain pasta instead of refined grains like white rice or pasta.

4. Opt for vegetables and fruits:

Vegetables and fruits are an essential part of a healthy diet and can help you meet your daily recommended intake of vitamins and minerals. Choose dishes with a variety of vegetables and fruits, and opt for dishes with salads or vegetable-based sides instead of fries or chips. You can also ask for extra vegetables on your dish or a side of steamed vegetables.

5. Watch portion sizes:

Restaurant portions are often much larger than what we need or should be eating. Consider sharing a dish with a colleague or ordering a half-portion if available. You can also ask for a to-go box at the beginning of the meal and pack up half of your meal to take home for later. Additionally, try to eat slowly and mindfully, savoring each bite, and stopping when you feel satisfied.

6. Mindful eating techniques:

Mindful eating involves paying attention to the present moment and being aware of your thoughts, feelings, and sensations while eating. Some techniques to practice mindful eating include taking small bites, chewing slowly, and focusing on the taste, smell, and texture of your food. Avoid distractions like your phone or computer, and try to eat in a quiet and peaceful environment.

7. Stay hydrated:

Drinking water throughout the meal can help you stay hydrated and full. Avoid sugary drinks like soda or sweetened tea, and instead, opt for water or unsweetened tea. You can also ask for a slice of lemon or lime to add flavor to your water.

8. Avoid alcohol and sugary drinks:

Alcoholic beverages and sugary drinks are often high in calories and can quickly add up to your daily calorie intake. Instead of ordering a sugary drink or a cocktail, opt for water, herbal tea, or freshly squeezed juice. If you must drink alcohol, limit yourself to one drink and avoid cocktails that are high in sugar and calories.

Eating out with colleagues can be a fun and enjoyable experience if you make healthy choices. Remember that healthy eating is a lifestyle choice that requires commitment and dedication. With these tips, you can maintain your healthy eating habits even when dining out with colleagues.

Advertisement

How these healing foods can help you overcome the effects of trauma

0
trauma

Foods play a crucial role in maintaining our overall health and well-being. When we eat a balanced and nutritious diet, it can work wonders for our body. Our body requires different types of nutrients such as carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals to function optimally. These nutrients work together to support various bodily functions and maintain a healthy immune system.

Carbohydrates are the primary source of energy for our body. They are found in foods like grains, fruits, and vegetables. Proteins are the building blocks of our body and are essential for repairing and building new tissues. They can be found in foods like meat, fish, eggs, and legumes. Fats are essential for the absorption of certain vitamins and for maintaining healthy skin and hair. They are found in foods like nuts, seeds, and oils.

Eating a balanced and nutritious diet can also help prevent chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help lower cholesterol levels, reduce blood pressure, and improve blood sugar levels.

But, were you familiar with the fact that apart from physical health, foods can also play a crucial role in maintaining an individual’s mental health as well? 

Well you will be surprised to know how the right foods can do wonder to your body and your mind! 

For instance, foods like Fatty fish can have been linked to reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety. Omega-3s are thought to work by reducing inflammation in the brain and improving the communication between brain cells.

Whereas foods like whole grains provide a sturdy source of energy throughout the day which has proven to reduce blood sugar level that directly has shown to improve mood swings. 

Apart from all that, there is a very famous theory that high cocoa foods like dark chocolate can improve mental health and deal with mood swings and depression and that is why it is a popular choice of girls when they are PMSing. 

Foods that can help you recover from Trauma 

Trauma can have a significant impact on our physical and mental health. While it is important to seek professional help to address the effects of trauma, nutrition can also play a role in supporting recovery. Eating a balanced and nutritious diet can help support physical and mental health, reduce inflammation, and improve overall well-being. Here are some foods that can help you recover from trauma:

Omega-3 fatty acids

 Omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the body. They can be found in fatty fish such as salmon, tuna, and sardines, as well as in flaxseeds, chia seeds, and walnuts. Omega-3 fatty acids have also been shown to have a positive effect on mood and can help reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.

Whole grains

 Whole grains such as brown rice, quinoa, and whole wheat bread are a good source of complex carbohydrates, which can help regulate blood sugar levels and provide a steady source of energy throughout the day. Whole grains also contain B vitamins, which are essential for brain function and can help reduce stress and anxiety.

Leafy greens

Leafy greens such as spinach, kale, and collard greens are packed with vitamins and minerals that are essential for physical and mental health. They are also a good source of antioxidants, which can help reduce inflammation in the body.

Fermented foods

Fermented foods such as yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut are rich in probiotics, which can help support a healthy gut microbiome. Studies have shown that the gut-brain connection plays a significant role in mental health, and a healthy gut can help reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.

Nuts and seeds

 Nuts and seeds such as almonds, pumpkin seeds, and sunflower seeds are a good source of healthy fats, protein, and fiber. They are also rich in vitamins and minerals that are essential for overall health and can help reduce inflammation in the body.

A balanced and nutritious diet can help support recovery from trauma by reducing inflammation, improving mental health, and promoting overall well-being. Incorporating foods such as fatty fish, whole grains, leafy greens, fermented foods, and nuts and seeds into your diet can help support your physical and mental health. It is important to work with a healthcare provider to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that includes nutrition as part of the healing process.

Advertisement

How this commonly consumed food is secretly ruining your workday

0
coffee creamer

For many working professionals, a cup of coffee is an essential part of their daily routine. However, the addition of coffee creamer to their morning cup of joe may not be the healthiest choice. Despite being a convenient and tasty addition, many coffee creamers contain a range of unhealthy ingredients that can negatively impact health. Whether you’re a coffee lover or just looking for ways to improve your health, this article will provide valuable insights to help you make more informed choices about your morning coffee routine.

Why is coffee creamer popular in the first place? 

Coffee creamer is popular among working professionals for a few reasons. Primarily because it adds flavor to coffee, making it more enjoyable to drink. Many people find that coffee by itself can be too bitter or strong, and adding creamer can make it more palatable. Additionally, coffee creamer can add a creamy texture to coffee, making it feel more like a treat or indulgence.

Another reason why coffee creamer is popular among working professionals is convenience. Many people don’t have the time or resources to make their own creamer at home, so pre-packaged creamers are a quick and easy solution. This is especially true for people who need to get out the door quickly in the morning and don’t have time to make their coffee and creamer from scratch.

Health risks when it comes to coffee creamer:

While coffee creamer can be a convenient and enjoyable addition to coffee, it is important to be mindful of the potential health risks associated with some creamers. 

As mentioned in the previous answer, many creamers are high in sugar, unhealthy fats, and artificial flavors, which can have negative impacts on health. As a working professional, it is important to prioritize your health and choose healthier alternatives when possible.

Coffee creamer is a popular choice among working professionals who rely on caffeine to get through their busy days. However, many coffee creamers contain a variety of unhealthy ingredients that can negatively impact health. Here are some reasons why coffee creamer is bad for the health of working professionals:

High in sugar:

Many coffee creamers are high in sugar, with some containing up to 5 grams of sugar per serving. Consuming too much sugar can lead to weight gain, type 2 diabetes, and other health problems.

High in unhealthy fats:

Coffee creamers are often made with partially hydrogenated oils, which are a source of trans fats. Trans fats have been linked to an increased risk of heart disease and other health problems.

Contains artificial flavors and colors that can trigger digestive issues:

Many coffee creamers contain artificial flavors and colors, which have been linked to a range of health problems including allergies, hyperactivity, and cancer. Coffee creamer can be a source of lactose, which can trigger digestive issues such as bloating, gas, and diarrhea in people who are lactose intolerant. Additionally, many creamers contain additives and preservatives that can irritate the digestive system.

Can interfere with nutrient absorption:

Some coffee creamers contain carrageenan, which is a thickener that has been linked to digestive issues and inflammation. Carrageenan can also interfere with nutrient absorption, making it harder for the body to absorb essential vitamins and minerals.

Coffee creamer may be a convenient and tasty addition to your morning cup of coffee, but it can have a negative impact on your health. High in sugar, unhealthy fats, artificial flavors and colors, and potentially harmful additives, coffee creamer can lead to a range of health problems. As a working professional, it is important to prioritize your health and choose healthier alternatives such as unsweetened almond or coconut milk, or black coffee.

Healthy alternatives to coffee creamers:

If you are a working professional who is looking for a healthier alternative to coffee creamer, there are a variety of options available. Here are a few suggestions:

Unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk

These dairy-free options are low in calories and provide a creamy texture that is similar to dairy milk. They can be used as a substitute for creamer and come in a variety of flavors, including vanilla and chocolate.

Cinnamon

Adding a sprinkle of cinnamon to your coffee can provide a natural sweetness and flavor without the need for sugar or creamer. Cinnamon has also been shown to have health benefits, including reducing inflammation and improving blood sugar control.

Collagen powder

Collagen powder is a protein supplement that can be added to coffee for a boost of nutrition. It provides a creamy texture and can help support healthy skin, hair, and joints.

MCT oil

MCT oil is a type of oil that is derived from coconut oil. It is high in medium-chain triglycerides, which are a type of fat that is quickly converted into energy by the body. Adding MCT oil to coffee can provide a quick burst of energy and help support mental clarity.

Homemade creamer

 If you prefer a creamier texture, you can make your own creamer at home using healthy ingredients such as coconut cream or cashew milk. There are many recipes available online that are easy to make and can be customized to your preferences.

There are many healthy alternatives to coffee creamer for working professionals. By choosing options that are low in sugar, healthy fats, and artificial flavors, you can enjoy a delicious and nutritious cup of coffee that supports your health and wellbeing.

Advertisement

Why these overnight oats are the best breakfast option for your kids?

0
oats

As parents, we are always searching for healthy and delicious breakfast options for our children. Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and it is important that our children start their day with a nutritious meal. In recent years, overnight oats have gained popularity as a healthy breakfast option. In this article, we will discuss why overnight oats are a great breakfast option for kids, and why Miheso Overnight Oats are the best oats for your kids.

What are Overnight Oats?

Overnight oats are a popular breakfast option that involves soaking oats in milk or yogurt overnight. This allows the oats to absorb the liquid and become soft and creamy by morning. Overnight oats can be made with a variety of ingredients, including fruits, nuts, seeds, and sweeteners. They are a healthy and convenient breakfast option, as they can be made the night before and eaten on the go in the morning.

Benefits of Overnight Oats:

There are several benefits to eating overnight oats. First and foremost, they are a healthy breakfast option. Oats are a good source of fiber and protein, which are both important for a healthy diet. Additionally, overnight oats are a great way to incorporate fruits and nuts into your diet, which are both rich in vitamins and minerals.

Another benefit of overnight oats is their convenience. Since they can be made the night before, overnight oats are a great option for busy mornings when you don’t have time to prepare breakfast. They can also be eaten on the go, making them a great option for busy parents and children.

Why are Overnight Oats a great breakfast option for kids?

Children need a healthy and balanced breakfast to start their day off right. Unfortunately, many breakfast options for kids are high in sugar and low in nutrition. Overnight oats are a great option for kids because they are healthy, easy to prepare, and can be customized to your child’s taste preferences.

One of the biggest advantages of overnight oats for kids is their nutritional value. Oats are a good source of fiber, which can help regulate digestion and keep kids feeling full throughout the morning. Additionally, overnight oats can be made with milk or yogurt, which are both good sources of calcium and protein. By incorporating overnight oats into your child’s breakfast routine, you can ensure that they are getting the nutrients they need to start their day off right.

Another advantage of overnight oats for kids is their customization. Kids can be picky eaters, but with overnight oats, you can customize the flavor and toppings to your child’s taste preferences. This makes it more likely that they will enjoy their breakfast and be excited to eat it each morning.

Why Miheso Overnight Oats are the best breakfast choice for your child:

Miheso is a popular brand that offers a wide range of instant oats and oatmeal products. Their Overnight Oats are a great option for busy parents who want to provide a healthy and tasty breakfast to their kids without spending hours in the kitchen.

One of the standout features of Miheso Overnight Oats is the variety of flavors they offer, including Strawberry, Banana, Blueberry, Apple Cinnamon, and more. Each flavor has a distinct taste and is made with real fruits and natural ingredients, ensuring that your kids get the best of both worlds – delicious taste and nutrition.

Nutritional Value of Miheso Overnight Oats:

Nutrition is one of the most critical factors to consider when choosing a breakfast option for your kids. Miheso Overnight Oats are an excellent source of complex carbohydrates, fiber, protein, and healthy fats. One cup of Miheso Overnight Oats contains around 200-250 calories, making it a filling and satisfying breakfast that will keep your kids energized throughout the day.

Moreover, Miheso Overnight Oats are made with high-quality, non-GMO, and gluten-free oats that are rich in beta-glucan, a type of soluble fiber that helps lower cholesterol levels and improve heart health. The oats are also a good source of iron, magnesium, and zinc, essential minerals that are crucial for healthy growth and development.

Taste and Flavor of Miheso Overnight Oats

One of the biggest challenges parents face is getting their kids to eat healthy food that tastes good. Fortunately, Miheso Overnight Oats are not only nutritious but also delicious. The oats have a creamy, smooth texture that is not too thick or thin, making them easy to eat and digest. The natural sweetness of the fruits and the added sweetener make the oats flavorful without being too sugary or artificial.

Moreover, the variety of flavors means that your kids can try different flavors every day and never get bored with their breakfast. The oats also make a great base for adding in additional fruits, nuts, or spices to create a customized breakfast that suits your child’s taste preferences. 

Convenience and Easy Preparation of Miheso Overnight Oats:

Miheso Overnight Oats are incredibly convenient and easy to prepare. Simply mix the oats with your choice of milk or yogurt and leave it in the fridge overnight. In the morning, you’ll have a delicious and creamy bowl of oats that are ready to eat. This means that you can prepare breakfast the night before and save time in the morning. Plus, since the oats are already pre-portioned, you don’t have to worry about measuring out the correct amount.

Another great benefit of Miheso Overnight Oats is that they are portable. If your child is running late in the morning, they can easily take their breakfast with them to eat on the go. This is also a great option for busy mornings when there isn’t time to sit down and eat.

Affordability of Miheso Overnight Oats:

Miheso Overnight Oats are an affordable breakfast option for families. At around Rs. 50 per serving, they are cheaper than many other breakfast options, such as cereal or pre-packaged oatmeal. Plus, since they come in a variety of flavors, your child is sure to find one that they love.

In addition to being affordable, Miheso Overnight Oats are also a great value. The oats are made with high-quality ingredients, including rolled oats, chia seeds, and flax seeds, which are all known for their nutritional benefits. This means that your child is getting a nutritious breakfast that will keep them fueled throughout the day.

Miheso Overnight Oats are a fantastic breakfast option for kids. They are convenient, easy to prepare, affordable, and nutritious. Plus, with their delicious flavors, your child is sure to enjoy them. So why not give them a try and see how they can make your morning routine a little easier?

Advertisement

D2C skincare startup RAS raises $1.5M to boost product offerings and expand market reach in India

0
RAS
RAS was founded by Sangeeta Jain and her two daughters Shubhika Jain and Suramya Jain

Indian startup RAS, which specializes in farm-to-face skincare and direct-to-consumer hygiene products, has secured $1.5 million in funding from Green Frontier Capital (GFC), along with contributions from its current investors.

RAS, a company that uses natural ingredients to create cosmetics and personal care items, was established in 2017 by Sangeeta Jain and her daughters, Suramya Jain and Subhika Jain. The company is based in Raipur, Chhattisgarh.

In May of last year, Sixth Sense Ventures provided RAS with $2 million in funding.

Commenting on the fundraise, Suramya Jain said, “Our ingredients are cultivated organically in our own farms and/or acquired from local farmers and manufacturers who are well regarded for purity and freshness. The ingredients are researched and formulated in our in-house DSIR-approved R&D facility and manufactured in our government-approved facility followed by packing and timely dispatch to our customers.”

RAS asserts that it has been growing at a rate of 300% year-on-year since its inception.

With the fresh funding, RAS intends to introduce new product innovations and expand its market presence throughout India. The startup plans to hire more employees for its Raipur and Mumbai offices as part of its efforts to further penetrate the beauty and personal care industry in the country.

RAS is also creating multiple touchpoints across India through an omnichannel approach, and is enhancing its brand presence by collaborating with appropriate channels. In addition to its own D2C website, the beauty startup sells its products through various e-commerce platforms such as Nykaa, Amazon, Blinkit, and Flipkart.

Last week, Reliance launched Tira, a new player in the beauty and personal care market in India. Tira has the potential to challenge existing brands like Nykaa and Purplle.

In the last quarter, Nykaa experienced a 71% decline in its consolidated net profit.

Several weeks ago, The Good Glamm Group, a content-to-commerce unicorn, collaborated with actor Akshay Kumar to introduce a direct-to-consumer (D2C) personal care brand for men.

Purplle was bestowed with the unicorn status last year following its $33 million Series E funding round. In addition, we previously reported on Foxtale, a skincare startup that secured $4 million in funding, and WOW Skin Science, which raised $48.02 million.

Towards the end of FY22, funding in the beauty and personal care industry began to decline. Despite this, actors and celebrities have invested in startups within the space. At the end of 2022, Ranveer Singh invested in SUGAR Cosmetics, and Rashmika Mandanna supported D2C company Plum.

According to a study conducted by Research and Markets, the Indian beauty and personal care market is anticipated to grow to $33.33 billion by 2027.

Advertisement

Indonesian cloud kitchen startup ‘Legit Group’ secures $13.7M in funding led by MDI Ventures

0
Legit Group

Indonesian cloud kitchen startup, Legit Group, has raised $13.7 million in a Series A funding round, with MDI Ventures leading the funding and Sinar Mas Digital Ventures (SMDV), East Ventures, and Winter Capital also participating.

In September 2021, Legit Group raised a seed round of $3 million, with East Ventures taking the lead.

With the new investment, Legit Group plans to expand its operations beyond the Greater Jakarta Area. Legit Group, which was founded in 2021, currently operates four food and beverage brands, namely Pastaria, Sei’Tan, Sek Fan, and Ryujin, in over 30 locations primarily in Jakarta.

Legit Group employs a purely cloud kitchen business model, without any physical offline presence. According to the company, since its seed funding round in 2021, it has experienced robust traction, with sales increasing by roughly three times.

“We are thrilled to have a strong group of investors supporting us in creating F&B infrastructure that carries the vision of ‘Food for Everyone’,” Bram Hendrata, Chairman of Legit Group, said in a statement.

Hendrata is not only the founder and CEO of Legit Group but also of Ismaya Group, a leading lifestyle and hospitality company in Indonesia that manages 18 food and beverage brands.

“Through the new funding, Legit Group will strengthen its commitment to bringing more food to various places while continuing to innovate and improve the technology we have to achieve a more efficient operating system,” Hendrata added.

Legit Group has recognized the potential of next-generation food and beverage technology, which emphasizes brand development through the use of technology to maximize profits. This approach is expected to provide a competitive edge in the cloud kitchen market.

MDI Ventures CEO Donald Wihardja said, “Their [Legit’s] ability to develop innovative product and marketing strategies makes MDI Ventures increasingly confident that our support as a major investor will strengthen their position in the F&B industry and accelerate their business growth.”

Statista predicts that by 2023, the Indonesian online delivery market will reach $10.81 billion, with a projected compound annual growth rate of 21.30% between 2023 and 2027. The market volume is set to expand to $23.4 billion by 2027.

The stable demand and promising prospects for online food delivery have spurred the emergence of several cloud kitchen startups in Indonesia. With its lean asset model, cloud kitchen offers advantages such as reduced operating expenses and maintenance costs compared to traditional dine-in restaurants.

Apart from Legit Group, other prominent cloud kitchen companies in Indonesia include Dailybox, which secured $24 million in funding last June, led by Northstar and Vertex, and Hangry, which raised $22 million in April 2022 from various investors, including Journey Capital Partners and Alpha JWC Ventures.

Advertisement

Amul’s MD Jayen Mehta dispels competition rumors with Nandini Milk brand

0
amul milk

Amidst the raging controversy surrounding the two dairy giants, the head of Amul has clarified that the company has no intention of entering Karnataka’s market to compete with Nandini, the local dairy brand.

Dismissing the reports and allegations made by the Karnataka Milk Federation (KMF), the second-largest milk cooperative after Amul, the top executive of Amul stated that the company had no plans to enter Karnataka’s market and compete with Nandini. The controversy has now taken a political turn in the state, which is approaching an Assembly election next month.

Amul MD Jayen Mehta, said, “Amul and Nandini have strong collaboration and respect for each other. We are not into competition. Amul’s launch of fresh milk and curd ( dahi) is only for a niche market through e-commerce channels and not through a mass distribution network.”

Amul’s recent tweet announcing its expansion into the Bengaluru market has caused a political uproar in poll-bound Karnataka. Opposition parties such as the Congress and the JD(S), along with various Kannadiga groups, have expressed concerns that Amul’s entry would harm the market share of the home-grown Nandini and pose a threat to its business in the state.

The executive contended that the controversy was unfounded since Amul had only announced its plans to sell fresh milk and curd (dahi) through e-commerce channels and not through the mass market distribution network, thereby clarifying that there was no intention to directly compete with Nandini.

“It’s a niche and selective foray, not a full-fledged entry as is being made out,” he said, adding “there would be no competition since Amul would be selling its milk at INR 54 per litre, while Nandini sells milk at a much cheaper price.”

According to the executive, Amul had already commenced the sale of its fresh milk through a niche market approach in select districts of North Karnataka a few years ago, and this had not posed any threat or competition to Nandini in any way.

“Contrary to the reports of competition, we have a strong collaboration. During Covid-19 period, Amul got INR 200 crore worth of cheese from Nandini,” he said. “Moreover, Amul gets ice creams worth INR 100 crore manufactured in the plants of Nandini every year.”

Mr. Mehta further added that Amul and Nandini were both owned by farmers and their commercial partnership aimed to benefit the farming community as a whole.

Advertisement

Third Eye Distillery redefines premium spirits landscape with launch of ‘Short Story’ in New Delhi

0
Short Story

Short Story – the latest creation from Third Eye Distillery, a distillery based in Goa, is making its way to New Delhi. The goal of the brand is to steer the conversation towards creating a standard for premium spirits. They aspire to establish a benchmark for quality in the industry.

Pankaj Balachandran, a highly acclaimed veteran in the beverage industry, is at the helm of Short Story as its Brand Director.

“There has been a general rise in interest towards cocktail culture and subsequently, a need for quality, true-to-style spirits that can be relied upon. I am excited to have had the chance to work on these spirits personally with the goal of delivering a great drink irrespective of the occasion. We hope to be the brand that bartenders and consumers invariably reach for a drink, be it for themselves or someone else,” he shared.

The creation of Short Story was driven by a vision to offer premium spirits that are synonymous with quality and reliability for every occasion in the Indian spirits landscape.

“Having worked in the beverage industry for over ten years, I noticed the need for a go-to spirits brand in India, something that exists in most international markets. Over the years, this need-gap has propelled the dependency on imported brands for regular consumption. We, at Third Eye Distillery, wanted to offer the Indian spirits landscape with a portfolio of true-to-style essential spirits which set a standard for quality and are an effortless choice be it at home or a bar,” added Pankaj.

Presently, the Short Story portfolio comprises of a classic London dry gin, which boasts a juniper backbone, a triple distilled grain vodka that has been charcoal-filtered, and an Indo-Caribbean white rum that comes with an added geography lesson.

Third Eye Distillery aims to break free from the conventions of the spirits industry with its Short Story spirits. They steer clear of long-winded tales and excessive romanticizing of ingredients and processes to validate their products’ quality.

Short Story will be hitting the shelves of bars and retail stores in Bangalore, Mumbai, and Goa in September, with plans to expand to other regions of the country in the following months.

In Maharashtra, Short Story is being sold at the following prices: Vodka for INR 1650, Gin for INR 1850, and Rum for INR 1950. However, in Karnataka and Goa, all three bottles can be purchased for INR 1950 and INR 1050, respectively. The brand is priced at INR 1000 for Vodka, INR 1100 for Gin, and INR 1200 for Rum in the capital.

Advertisement

Commerce ministry issues draft guidelines for certification of halal meat products

0
meat

In an effort to make the halal certification process more efficient for meat and meat product exports from India, the DGFT, a department of the Ministry specializing in import and export issues, has created guidelines on halal certification.

According to the Ministry of Commerce, meat and meat products can only be exported with a “halal certified” label if they are manufactured, processed, and packaged in a facility holding a valid certificate issued by a Quality Council of India-accredited body. This requirement applies to industry professionals.

The Ministry also stated that the process for exporting meat and meat products without halal certification will remain the same. Additionally, for export shipments to countries with halal regulations, the producer, supplier, or exporter must comply with the importing country’s requirements.

In a notification, the DGFT stated that policy conditions for halal certification of meat and meat products have been established. It further stated that all current halal certification bodies must obtain accreditation from the NABCB (National Accreditation Board for Certification Bodies) for ICAS (Indian Conformity Assessment Scheme) halal within six months.

The notification said, “Meat and meat products shall be allowed to be exported as ‘halal certified’, only if produced, processed, and/or packaged in facilities having a valid certification under the iCAS of the Quality Council of India (QCI), issued by a certification body duly accredited by the NABCB as per the guidelines issued or amended from time to time.”

This notification pertains to products such as bovine meat, fish, chilled meat, sheep and goat meat, sausages, and related items. The ‘India Conformity Assessment Scheme (i-CAS)’ was created with the goal of streamlining the halal certification process for meat and meat products within India.

Until recently, the Indian government did not have a mandatory halal certification system in place, as there was no national regulation governing certification procedures.

As of 2021, the worldwide halal food market was valued at USD 1,978 billion and is expected to grow to USD 3,907.7 billion by 2027. With a substantial Muslim population, India presents significant opportunities for entrepreneurs interested in halal-based ventures.

India’s halal industry is still in its early stages, with no particular labeling mandates for halal food imports. Halal certification is granted by various private companies in India, signifying that the food or products are permissible. Halal India Pvt. Ltd. and Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind Halal Trust are the most prominent halal-certifying organizations in India.

The International Halal Accreditation Forum (IHAF) is a global network of accreditation bodies responsible for implementing halal standards within their respective economies. While countries such as Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, the Philippines, the UAE, Pakistan, and others have their own halal standards, there are currently no universal halal standards in place.

The report noted that the swift expansion of the halal industry has resulted not only in halal technologies and advancements but also in halal-related legislation and regulations that are yet to be globally standardized. The halal market now appeals to not only the Muslim population but also non-Muslim consumers due to shifting consumer perceptions.

Advertisement

Domino’s becomes the first QSR to introduce order via CarPlay

0
dominos carplay

Domino’s has introduced a new technology that allows for on-the-go ordering through CarPlay, making it the first quick service restaurant in the United States to offer this service.

When using Domino’s app on CarPlay, customers can choose between two options to place their orders: “Tap to Order” or “Call to Order.” With “Tap to Order,” customers can submit either their saved Easy Order or one of their most recent orders. On the other hand, “Call to Order” enables customers to place any order of their preference hands-free, by speaking with a customer service representative.

“Domino’s has been known as the industry leader when it comes to pizza and technology, and we’re constantly striving to continue providing the best experience to customers. That’s why we launched Domino’s app on CarPlay,” said Christopher Thomas-Moore, Domino’s Senior Vice President and Chief Digital Officer.

In addition, he noted that CarPlay provides an alternative to drive-thru service, offering customers the convenience of placing an order from their car without having to wait in a long drive-thru line. This way, customers can order from anywhere they are, without leaving the comfort of their car.

Apart from ordering through Domino’s on CarPlay, customers can also monitor the progress of their order through Domino’s Tracker®. The Domino’s app on CarPlay is part of the brand’s latest AnyWare™ ordering platform, which comprises a range of technologies that enable customers to place orders from any location, using any preferred device. Other AnyWare ordering platforms include ordering via Apple Watch or through text using an emoji.

Advertisement