Imagine waking up to the aroma of warm, homemade parathas wafting through the air, filling your senses with a sense of comfort and nostalgia. It takes you back to a time when life was simpler, and you were carefree, being lovingly pampered by your parents. Each bite of these flaky, golden delights carries the essence of your mom’s love and the warmth of a home-cooked meal. As you spread a dollop of butter on top, watching it melt and glisten, you can almost taste the indulgence and hear the sizzle as it meets the hot parantha. The combination of crispy layers and the soft, buttery center creates a symphony of textures and flavors, leaving you longing for another bite.
Back to reality! You are outside home and you miss the warmth of mom’s love deeply, but don’t really have time for warm, healthy and loving home cooked meals?
We can understand the struggle and hence have found a way for you to feel home and at the same time, do it at your own ease and convenience with this easy to make, no roll, liquid paratha recipe!
Ingredients:
2 cups whole wheat flour
1 cup water
2 tablespoons ghee or oil
Salt, to taste
Instructions:
In a mixing bowl, add the whole wheat flour and salt. Mix well to combine.
Create a well in the center of the flour mixture and pour in the water gradually while mixing with a spoon or your hands.
Continue to mix until a sticky dough forms. If the dough feels too dry, add a little more water, a tablespoon at a time, until it comes together.
Add ghee or oil to the dough and knead it for a few minutes until smooth and elastic. The dough will be soft and slightly sticky.
Divide the dough into equal-sized portions, approximately golf ball-sized.
Heat a non-stick skillet or tawa over medium heat.
Take one portion of the dough and flatten it between your palms to form a disc.
Place the disc onto the heated skillet and use your fingers to spread it into a thin, even round shape. The dough will be soft and pliable, so you don’t need to use a rolling pin.
Drizzle a little ghee or oil around the edges of the parantha and cook until golden brown spots appear on the bottom side.
Flip the parantha and cook the other side until it becomes golden brown as well.
Remove the parantha from the skillet and place it on a plate lined with a paper towel to absorb any excess oil or ghee.
Repeat the process with the remaining portions of dough.
Serve the no-roll liquid paranthas hot with your favorite side dish, such as curry, chutney, or yogurt.
Enjoy the simplicity and convenience of this no-roll liquid parantha recipe that still delivers the delicious taste and texture of traditional paranthas, without the need for rolling and shaping.
Delhi, the vibrant capital city of India, is not only a melting pot of diverse cultures but also a culinary paradise for food enthusiasts. With its thriving food scene, Delhi offers a plethora of options when it comes to international cuisine. From Japanese and Italian to Spanish and Mexican, the city boasts an array of restaurants that cater to various palates. In this article, we will take you on a gastronomic adventure through Delhi-NCR, highlighting 12 handpicked international restaurants where you can indulge in delectable dishes from around the world.
Coco ICHIBANYA – Japanese Cuisine
If you’re craving authentic Japanese flavors, head to CoCo ICHIBANYA. With over 1,400 outlets worldwide, this Japanese curry house has made its mark in Delhi as well. Located in the food court of Select Citywalk Mall in Saket, CoCo ICHIBANYA offers a wholesome Japanese culinary experience. Their menu includes curated vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, allowing visitors to savor the essence of Japanese cuisine.
Address: My Square, Select Citywalk Mall, Saket, Delhi
Cost for Two: Approximately INR 600
Bergamo Delhi – World Cuisine
Situated in Vasant Kunj, Bergamo Delhi is a restaurant that takes you on a culinary journey around the world. With a diverse menu featuring salads, lasagna, and pizzas, Bergamo aims to satisfy your cravings for international flavors. Whether you’re in the mood for Italian, Mediterranean, or Continental dishes, this restaurant is sure to delight your taste buds.
Address: The Grand New Delhi, Vasant Kunj, Delhi
Cost for Two: Approximately INR 2,500
Sevilla – Spanish Cuisine
For an authentic Spanish dining experience, Sevilla is the place to be. Located in The Claridges hotel, this restaurant offers a charming outdoor area along with a delectable Spanish menu. Indulge in paella, tapas, and wood-fired pizza while enjoying the serene ambience. Sevilla is perfect for a romantic date night or a special celebration.
Address: The Claridges, 12, Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Rd, New Delhi
Cost for Two: Approximately INR 4,500
Tonino Ristorante Italiano – Italian Cuisine
For those craving Italian flavors, Tonino Ristorante Italiano is a must-visit restaurant in Delhi. Located in Mehrauli, this Italian eatery offers an elegant ambiance and a menu filled with authentic Italian delicacies. From the Marechiaro Pizza to gluten-free pasta, Tonino Ristorante Italiano serves up a range of dishes that will transport you to the streets of Italy.
If you’re a fan of Afghani cuisine, head to Afghan Darbar in Lajpat Nagar. Known for its ‘dhaba-style’ Afghani fare, this restaurant offers a delightful range of grills, soft fluffy rotis, and flavorful mutton dishes. Don’t miss out on their Qubuli Uzbeki, Tandoori Chicken, and Chicken Qorma for a truly authentic taste of Afghanistan.
Address: E-96, Block E, Lajpat Nagar II, Lajpat Nagar, Delhi
Cost for Two: Approximately INR 600
Taco Bell – Mexican Cuisine
For a quick and satisfying Mexican food fix, Taco Bell is a popular choice in Delhi. With outlets in Cyber Hub, DLF Cyber City, and Epicuria Food Mall in Nehru Place, Taco Bell brings the flavors of Mexico to your doorstep. Indulge in their tacos, burritos, and quesadillas while enjoying the lively ambiance. Taco Bell is the perfect spot for a casual and flavorful meal.
Lha Kitchen – Nepali, Tibetan, Bhutanese, Chinese Cuisine
Lha Kitchen is a hidden gem located in Safdarjung Enclave, offering a fusion of Nepali, Tibetan, Bhutanese, and Chinese cuisines. While their menu covers a wide range of dishes from these regions, their momos steal the show. The restaurant provides an authentic experience with Tibetan prayer flags, monastery prayer wheels, and floor seating, allowing you to savor succulent roast pork and juicy jhol momos.
For an immersive Korean culinary experience, Kori’s in Humayunpur is the place to be. As the first Korean restaurant in the area, Kori’s offers a delectable selection of Korean dishes, including Bulgogi Bibimbap, Kimchi Pancake, Kimchi Jjigae, and more. Pair your meal with a bottle of soju for a truly authentic Korean dining experience.
Address: R -62/1, Humayunpur, Safdarjung Enclave, Delhi
Cost for Two: Approximately INR 1,000
Le Cirque – French-Italian Cuisine
If you’re looking for a refined French-Italian dining experience, Le Cirque at The Leela New Delhi is the perfect choice. This upscale restaurant offers a candlelit ambiance, three private rooms, a Chef’s Table, a show kitchen, al fresco seating, and a separate bar area. Indulge in exquisite French and Italian dishes prepared with precision and finesse.
Address: The Leela Palace New Delhi, Chanakyapuri, Delhi
Cost for Two: Approximately INR 5,000
The American Connection Diner – American Cuisine
For lovers of American cuisine, The American Connection Diner is a go-to place in Delhi. Located in Kalkaji, this diner serves generous portions of burgers, pizzas, smoothies, onion rings, and pancakes that are worth every penny. The casual and affordable ambiance makes it a popular spot for comfort food cravings.
Address: 2nd floor, F1, Kalkaji Main Rd, Kalkaji, Delhi
Cost for Two: Approximately INR 1,500
Viet: Nom – Vietnamese Cuisine
If you’re craving Vietnamese flavors, head to Viet:Nom in DLF CyberHub. This cozy restaurant offers a wholesome Vietnamese menu, with their pho being a standout dish. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite after work or a leisurely dinner, Viet:Nom provides a cozy ambiance and delicious food to satisfy your Vietnamese cravings.
For a unique culinary experience, Burma Burma is the place to be. Located in Select Citywalk Mall in Saket, this award-winning fine dining restaurant showcases the flavors of Burmese cuisine. From lemongrass curry to coconut pudding, samosa soup to mushroom bun, Burma Burma offers a wide range of dishes that will transport you to the vibrant streets of Myanmar. The restaurant also features a tea bar showcasing Burmese artifacts and lacquerware.
Address: Select CityWalk Mall, Saket, Delhi
Cost for Two: Approximately INR 1,600
Delhi-NCR is a treasure trove for food lovers, offering a diverse range of international cuisines to satisfy every palate. From the authentic flavors of Japan and Italy to the vibrant spices of Mexico and Afghanistan, these handpicked restaurants provide an immersive dining experience. So, whether you’re in the mood for a romantic Spanish dinner, a quick Mexican bite, or a culinary adventure through various Asian cuisines, Delhi-NCR has got you covered. Embark on a gastronomic journey and indulge in the best international eateries that the city has to offer.
Protein powder has become a staple in the diets of fitness enthusiasts and health-conscious individuals alike. Its convenience, versatility, and ability to provide a concentrated source of protein make it a popular choice for those looking to meet their protein needs. While protein shakes are the go-to method of consumption, there are numerous other delicious and inventive ways to incorporate protein powder into your diet.
In this article, we will explore six mouthwatering ways to use protein powder that go beyond the traditional shaker bottle.
Add it to Baked Goods:
Baked goods offer the perfect opportunity to increase the protein content of your favorite treats while maintaining their deliciousness. By substituting a portion of the flour with protein powder, you can enhance the nutritional profile of muffins, pancakes, bread, and more. Start by replacing up to 25% of the flour with protein powder and adjust the liquid ingredients accordingly. Keep in mind that different types of protein powder may affect the texture of your baked goods, with whey protein powder adding lightness and fluffiness and soy or pea protein powder creating denser results. Experiment with flavors and find the combination that best complements your baked creations.
Mix it with Oatmeal and Yogurt:
Oatmeal and yogurt are breakfast staples, and adding protein powder to these dishes can elevate their nutritional value. To incorporate protein powder into your oatmeal, mix a scoop with a small amount of liquid to create a smooth paste. Then, add it to your cooked oats and stir well. You can adjust the sweetness by adding honey, maple syrup, or other sweeteners to taste. Similarly, you can mix protein powder into yogurt for a protein-packed snack or dessert. Just ensure that the flavor and texture of the protein powder align with your preferences and the overall taste of your dish.
Include it in Energy Balls and Bars:
Energy balls and bars are convenient and nutritious snacks that can provide a quick boost of energy during the day. By adding protein powder to these homemade treats, you can increase their protein content and enhance their satiating power. Simply mix the protein powder with the other ingredients in your recipe before shaping them into balls or pressing them into bars. You may need to adjust the amount of liquid or dry ingredients to achieve the desired consistency. Get creative with flavors and ingredients to find your perfect combination of protein-packed snacks.
Boost Your Smoothie Bowls:
Smoothie bowls have gained popularity for their vibrant colors and nutritious ingredients. By incorporating protein powder into your smoothie bowl, you can make it even more satisfying and filling. There are two main approaches to adding protein powder to smoothie bowls. One method involves mixing the protein powder directly into the base before adding toppings, ensuring even distribution throughout the bowl. The other method involves sprinkling the protein powder on top of the bowl, creating distinct layers of color and texture. Consider the flavor profile of your protein powder when choosing complementary ingredients and adjust the sweetness and texture as desired.
Enhance Salad Dressings:
Salads are a refreshing and nutrient-dense option for a meal, but they can sometimes lack protein. By adding protein powder to your salad dressings, you can increase the protein content without compromising flavor. Start by selecting a protein powder that complements the dressing’s flavors. For creamy dressings, vanilla or chocolate protein powders can work well, while a neutral-flavored powder may be better suited for vinaigrettes. Mix a small amount of protein powder with a liquid component of your dressing, such as vinegar, lemon juice, or olive oil, to create a smooth paste. Gradually whisk in the remaining ingredients until the dressing is well combined. Adjust the seasoning and sweetness to taste, and enjoy a protein-rich salad dressing that enhances the nutritional value of your greens.
Elevate Soups and Stews:
Soups and stews are hearty and comforting meals, and adding protein powder can make them even more satisfying and nutritious. Opt for a neutral-flavored protein powder that seamlessly integrates with the other ingredients in your dish. Create a smooth paste by mixing a small amount of protein powder with a bit of broth or stock, then gradually whisk it into the soup or stew. Stir continuously to prevent clumps from forming and adjust the seasoning as needed. This technique is particularly beneficial for individuals following vegetarian or vegan diets, as it can help meet their protein needs and enhance the overall nutritional profile of plant-based soups and stews.
Safety Considerations and Conclusion
While protein powder offers numerous benefits, it’s essential to choose high-quality products and consume them in moderation. opt for reputable brands that prioritize quality and safety. Additionally, consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian to determine the appropriate protein powder type and dosage for your specific needs.
Final Thoughts:
Incorporating protein powder into your diet doesn’t have to be limited to basic shakes. By exploring these six inventive and delicious ways to use protein powder, you can transform your boring protein shakes into irresistible beyond-shake delights. From baked goods to energy balls, smoothie bowls to salad dressings, and soups to yogurt, the possibilities are endless. Embrace the versatility of protein powder and enjoy the nutritional benefits it brings to your meals and snacks.
Fast food, the ultimate culinary delight, encompasses a wide range of delectable and addictive dishes that are designed to ignite your taste buds and satisfy your cravings. Sink your teeth into the succulent and juicy burger, with its perfectly melted cheese and tangy pickles, or savor the crispy, golden fries that are impossible to resist. Indulge in the heavenly pleasure of a warm, cheesy pizza loaded with your favorite toppings, or relish the irresistible crunch of fried chicken that leaves you longing for more. Fast food is synonymous with convenience, as it saves you precious time on busy days when you need a quick meal to fuel your adventures. With countless drive-thru lanes and easily accessible locations, you can enjoy a mouthwatering fast food feast without stepping out of your car. From bustling city streets to sleepy suburbs, fast food chains have permeated every corner, ensuring that you can always find your favorite guilty pleasure just around the corner.
However, we can see the shift in the culture, as the fast food that we used to consume only during special occasions has now taken over as our everyday meal. True to it’s very name, fast food is made quickly and efficiently and tastes good but just like any other shortcut with its own disadvantages, this fast food also has cheap nutrition which ruins the body in the long run. Yes, the terrifying truth is that the very meals we crave may be contributing to brain damage and cognitive decline. Join us as we delve into the shocking realities of fast food and explore the detrimental effects it can have on your brain health. Brace yourself for a journey that will leave you questioning your fast food choices and seeking healthier alternatives.
The Fat-Fueled Time Bomb:
Fast food is notorious for its high levels of unhealthy fats, particularly trans fats and saturated fats. Consuming these fats in excessive amounts can lead to a host of health problems, including the potential for brain damage. Research has shown that a diet high in unhealthy fats can impair cognitive function, memory retention, and even increase the risk of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s. It’s time to reconsider that greasy burger or deep-fried treat and choose brain-friendly options instead.
The Sneaky Sugar Overload:
Fast food meals often come with a side of sugary beverages or desserts. The excessive intake of refined sugars can wreak havoc on your brain, leading to inflammation, impaired memory, and reduced cognitive abilities. Regularly indulging in sugary fast food treats may also contribute to a higher risk of developing conditions like diabetes and obesity, which further impact brain health. It’s crucial to be mindful of the hidden sugars lurking in your favorite fast food choices and make healthier alternatives a priority.
The Additive Avalanche:
Fast food is notorious for its excessive use of additives, preservatives, and artificial flavorings. These additives, such as monosodium glutamate (MSG) and artificial food dyes, have been linked to adverse effects on brain health. Studies have shown that these additives can trigger headaches, migraines, and even exacerbate symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in susceptible individuals. Choosing fresh, whole foods over fast food options can help protect your brain from these harmful additives.
The Nutrient Void:
While fast food may fill your stomach quickly, it falls short when it comes to providing essential nutrients for brain health. A diet lacking in crucial vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants can hinder brain function and contribute to cognitive decline. Opting for a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can supply your brain with the nutrients it needs to thrive.
Final Thoughts:
Fast food may offer convenience and instant gratification, but the terrifying truth is that it can have detrimental effects on your brain health. The excessive consumption of unhealthy fats, sugars, additives, and the lack of essential nutrients can lead to brain damage, cognitive decline, and increased risks of neurodegenerative diseases. It’s time to take control of your health and make informed choices that prioritize your brain’s well-being. Opt for wholesome, nutrient-rich meals that nourish your body and mind, and explore healthier alternatives to your favorite fast food indulgences. Remember, your brain is a precious organ, and it deserves to be treated with care. So, say no to the fast food trap and embrace a brain-healthy lifestyle for a brighter, sharper future.
Running a Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) business comes with its fair share of challenges, and one such challenge is dealing with Return to Origin (RTO) orders. Recently, Apeksha Jain, Founder & CEO at The Gourmet Jar, took to LinkedIn to share a shocking experience involving a return order that left her astounded and frustrated. In her post, she revealed the absurdity of receiving a mere INR 5 Vim bar in a return, questioning whether it is the consumer or the courier company to blame for such occurrences. This incident highlights the financial burden and logistical hassles CPG businesses face when dealing with RTO orders, underscoring the pains involved in running a CPG enterprise.
Return to Origin (RTO) orders refer to cases where a customer’s order is returned to the seller instead of being successfully delivered. These returns can happen for various reasons, such as incorrect addresses, unavailability of the recipient, or the customer changing their mind. While RTO orders are an inevitable part of e-commerce and retail businesses, it is incidents like the one Jain faced that shed light on the challenges businesses face.
Speaking to Snackfax, Apeksha Jain, Founder of Gourmet Jar, said, “Logistic Aggregators need to come up with a process that ensures courier boys are not tampering with the packages. Automation might hold the key here. Perhaps something like a weight check of the package while it’s being returned to match the original weight might help reduce this problem. And definitely a better resolution from the aggregator’s end is much required, the time they take to get back and resolve issues like these is really way too long.”
The financial implications of RTO orders can be significant for CPG businesses. In Jain’s case, not only did she lose the revenue from the original order, but she also had to bear the costs of back and forth shipping. This double blow can have a detrimental impact on the profitability of small and medium-sized CPG businesses. The expenses incurred due to RTO orders eat into the company’s resources, affecting cash flow and hindering growth opportunities.
Consumer Responsibility vs. Courier Company Accountability:
When examining return orders, both consumers and courier companies share responsibility. While some consumers may exploit return policies to save money, it is crucial to consider the role of courier companies in ensuring reliable deliveries. Courier companies must handle reverse logistics efficiently to minimize the financial burden on businesses and prevent incidents such as the one Jain experienced.
Addressing the Challenges:
To mitigate the challenges faced by CPG businesses, all stakeholders must take proactive measures. Here are some potential solutions:
Strengthen Return Policies: Businesses can review and refine their return policies to strike a balance between customer convenience and protecting their financial interests. Clear guidelines and restrictions can discourage frivolous returns.
Improve Communication with Customers: Transparent communication regarding return policies and associated costs can manage customer expectations and reduce unnecessary return orders.
Collaborate with Reliable Courier Companies: Developing strong partnerships with courier companies known for efficient reverse logistics can streamline the RTO process, minimizing costs for CPG businesses.
Streamline Internal Operations: Evaluate internal processes and procedures related to returns. Identify areas for improvement and implement streamlined workflows to handle RTO orders more efficiently.
Continuous Customer Feedback: Encourage customers to provide feedback on return experiences. Actively listen to their suggestions and incorporate them into the improvement process.
Harness Technology: Implementing advanced tracking systems, automated return processes, and data analytics can provide valuable insights to optimize reverse logistics and identify patterns of misuse.
Apeksha Jain’s LinkedIn post highlights the harsh realities faced by CPG businesses during the RTO process. Assigning blame solely to consumers or courier companies is not productive; instead, all stakeholders must work together to alleviate the financial burden and streamline the return process. By implementing these strategies and addressing these challenges head-on, CPG businesses can improve profitability, enhance customer satisfaction, and streamline their operations in an increasingly competitive market.
GoodDot, the trailblazer in the plant-based meat industry, has now unveiled an extraordinary addition to its lineup: “Pro Chaap.” This innovative offering revolutionizes traditional chaaps and marks a significant milestone in the ever-evolving food industry. As a one-of-its-kind ‘Zero Maida Soya Chaap,’ Pro Chaap is poised to revolutionize protein consumption with its exceptional nutritional profile, tantalizing taste, satisfying texture, remarkable versatility, and unparalleled convenience.
Soya chaap has garnered immense popularity in the northern region of the country and is now expanding its reach nationwide. While many soya chaap variants in the market contain a significant amount of maida (refined flour), Pro Chaap stands out as a unique product that is both maida-free and cholesterol-free, while being rich in dietary fiber. What truly sets it apart is its remarkable texture, which boasts a delightful layered sensation, making it versatile for a wide range of culinary experiences across different cuisines.
Pro Chaap offers endless possibilities for culinary creations, ranging from tantalizing tikkas and mouth-watering fillings to aromatic curries, keema, biryanis, and even beloved Chinese Chilli dishes and Asian-style stir-fries. With just one SKU, Pro Chaap unlocks a multitude of options.
Preparing Pro Chaap is a breeze, as it simply requires boiling water to hydrate the product and make it ready for use. Its layered texture and fiber structure ensure excellent moisture and flavor retention, empowering chefs to craft innovative and captivating variations of popular dishes that will please the crowd.
With an impressive protein content of 64%, Pro Chaap presents a remarkable protein source that surpasses expectations. It offers a wholesome and satisfying alternative to both paneer and chicken, positioning itself as a versatile choice for those looking for a Chaap or plant-based meat option.
One of the standout features of Pro Chaap is its exceptional shelf life of one year and ambient stability. This remarkable attribute makes it a highly convenient choice for food service players, allowing them to stock and utilize Pro Chaap without concerns of spoilage.
What sets Pro Chaap apart is not only its impressive nutritional profile but also its affordability. Priced 30-50% lower than chicken or paneer, it presents an economical protein option for chefs and food service providers. This enables them to explore new culinary possibilities and bring innovative and exciting offerings to their customers, all while effectively managing their food costs.
Abhishek Sinha, Co-Founder & CEO, GoodDot, said, “The plant-based meat and alt-protein industry is at an inflection point, and it is poised for explosive growth. The success of companies in the space is contingent upon continuous product innovation to meet customer expectations in terms of taste, affordability, and nutrition. With the advent of Pro Chaap, our team has met all the vital benchmarks of taste, price, and nutrition. Now consumers can enjoy tasty and high-quality plant-based protein at a price of almost 40-50% lower than chicken and paneer.”
Pro Chaap is making inroads into luxury hotels like Marriott, Novotel, Radisson, Raffles, and more, apart from restaurants like Global Grill, Bodhi Tree, Grillophilia, and even some of the leading Dhaabas across West and North India! The product has also found favor with some of the major food co-packers and exporters, pointing to its tremendous value.
GoodDot remains at the forefront of the plant-based meat industry, spearheading the development of groundbreaking and eco-conscious alternatives to conventional animal-derived products. Through the introduction of Pro Chaap, GoodDot reaffirms its commitment to transforming the food industry by offering cost-effective and remarkably adaptable options that cater to the diverse needs of food service providers throughout the value chain.
Skippi, the premier brand of pops in India, has recently unveiled an exciting assortment of novel Iconic Indian Flavours (Desi flavours), meticulously crafted to satisfy the discerning Indian palate. Exclusively available on Skippi’s website, this remarkable collection features six iconic desi flavors: Jal Jeera, Kala Khatta, Rose, Aam Panna, Chilli Guava, and Imli.
Skippi has made a groundbreaking move within the F&B industry by becoming the first Indian brand to offer pre-booking for their products. This achievement not only showcases their commitment to delivering exceptional products but also highlights the enthusiastic response from customers. Skippi’s innovative approach has set a new standard in the industry, surpassing customer expectations and solidifying their position as a leader in the market.
With a presence in over 10,000 outlets across India, Skippi Ice Pops has already made a significant impact. The brand is dedicated to continuous innovation and novelty. Through the launch of these new iconic flavors, Skippi aims to establish itself as a national brand with an extensive distribution network reaching even the smallest towns in India, ensuring that the highest quality Ice Pops are accessible to everyone, whether they be children or adults, seeking a delightful frozen treat.
Ravi Kabra, Co-Founder of Skippi Ice pops said, “We believe the Indian iconic flavours will be an absolute game changer for Skippi as these flavours are very popular amongst the Indian consumers. After immense research, we have introduced these flavours that capture the essence of India by catering to the customer’s taste buds and can be enjoyed by all.”
McDonald’s Turkey has recently pushed the boundaries of technological innovation by introducing an extraordinary AI-driven drink menu. Referred to as “The Recipes from my ImaginAIon,” this remarkable selection of smoothies is now exclusively available at select McCafe branches located in Istanbul, as reported by credible sources.
“In the present era, there is a notable fascination, particularly among the youth, with artificial intelligence-driven programs encompassing image, video and audio domains. With the responsibility of being a brand that adopts the principle of making everyone happy, we prepared an extraordinary project based on the expectations and demands of young people,” shared Özdeş Dönen Artak, CMO, McDonald’s Turkey in the release.
The quick-service restaurant (QSR) chain has leveraged ChatGPT’s capabilities to curate an enticing smoothie menu. As part of their limited-time offerings, customers can now relish the delectable Unicorn Smoothie and the refreshing Lemon Chiller Smoothie.
“We entrusted ChatGPT to create drink recipes that would resonate with these aspirations. Consequently, it bestowed upon us the extraordinary ‘Recipes from my ImaginAIon’ menu. In collaboration with our McCafé baristas, we successfully brought this innovative menu to life and presented it to our cherished customers within the Istanbul’s popular McCafé branches. We invite everyone to experience these digital flavors that will be on sale for a limited time,” Artak mentioned.
McDonald’s runs a total of 250 outlets in Turkey, supporting a workforce of nearly 7,000 employees.
Despite years of stagnant growth, the sales of candies, toffees, and chewing gum bars witnessed a remarkable turnaround in the last fiscal year, reaching a record-breaking figure of nearly 40 billion units. This surge in sales reflects a clear preference for affordable sweet treats, especially during a period of economic hardship caused by the Covid pandemic, where disposable income was limited for many consumers.
According to Nielsen, officials have reported that the confectionery market witnessed significant growth, expanding by 13% to reach INR 12,127 crore. Companies have attributed their success in defying the slowdown experienced in various discretionary sectors to the affordability of their products.
“It is an affordable treat since 80% of the sales come from a one-rupee product,” said Rajesh Ramakrishnan, Managing Director of Perfetti Van Melle India, the company that makes Alpenliebe hard-boiled candies and Mentos soft candies.
“Increase in innovation and direct reach also helped. From our company’s standpoint, positioning of our brands has also become far sharper,” he added.
Typically, confectionery products heavily rely on cash-driven impulse purchases, and their consumption has been declining since late 2016. The confectionery market faced a significant contraction of one-fifth during the initial year of the pandemic, but it managed to make a strong recovery in FY22, albeit from a much lower starting point. Companies have attributed the growth observed in FY23 to resilient consumer demand, as the industry expanded on a higher base.
“While large players have contributed to the demand, there is an influx of smaller regional and local players in the category, that have been driving the growth, especially at a sub-rupee price point,” said Krishnarao Buddha, senior category head of Parle Products, the maker of Melody coffee-flavoured candies and Mango Bite.
“School reopenings last year also helped, and we expect the traction to continue this year,” he added.
The chocolate category is largely dominated by major companies like Mondelez, Nestle, and Mars, collectively holding a market share of over 90%.
However, regional firms make up more than 35% of the entire confectionery market, with certain players operating in limited states or even specific districts.
In recent years, the confectionery industry as a whole has progressively transitioned towards the INR 1-per-unit price point to accommodate rising costs of sugar, other raw materials, and packaging.
“Candy is not really a discretionary category and there has been a smooth transition from a 50-paise product to Re 1 a unit, even though it’s a 100% jump. So, the category is relatively insulated from inflation despite price increases,” said Koteshwar LN, business head at Flipkart Wholesale, an online B2B marketplace of the ecommerce platform.
According to companies, the significant inflation in input costs during the pandemic, further aggravated by the Ukraine-Russia conflict, hindered the expansion of operating profit margins in tandem with revenue.
Perfetti, the frontrunner in the INR 12,500-crore confectionery market, stated that there has been a substantial surge in all raw material and packaging costs.
“So, the challenge is more on the profitability side, instead of growth. We must continuously look at value engineering because there is a limit to which we can drop grammage,” added Ramakrishnan. Chocolate and confectionery combined is a INR 25,000-crore market, with each category accounting for roughly half the overall industry in value terms.
Companies have expressed that they are encountering intense competition from categories like salty snacks and biscuits. Kalpesh R Parmar, General Manager of Mars Wrigley Asia, mentioned in a previous interaction, “When consumers seek small moments of joy, they often choose between packaged snacks such as biscuits, chocolates, and chips.”
The recently implemented liquor policy, which permits corporate offices in Haryana to offer low-alcoholic beverages in their cafeterias, has received minimal attention and failed to generate any enthusiasm thus far.
Despite being home to thousands of multinational corporations and startups, including around 300 listed as Fortune 500 companies, not a single company has shown interest in applying or even inquiring about the newly introduced L-10F license since its introduction on June 1. According to officials, the reason behind this lack of response is that only a few companies meet the “strict criteria” necessary for applying for this license.
In order to apply for a license, offices must satisfy the following requirements: they must have a minimum covered area of 100,000 square feet without any obstructions in between different sections, and they must employ at least 5,000 individuals. Furthermore, these offices must have a cafeteria that spans at least 2,000 square feet, which serves low-alcoholic beverages.
“Forget applications, we haven’t even received any enquiries for the L-10F licence,” said a senior excise official, pointing out that new liquor policies usually start getting responses within a few days of their applications.
The L-10F licence will be valid for only 12 months from the date it is granted. “With the strict criteria in place, we were anyway not expecting a large number of applications for this licence. But we hoped there would be a lot of excitement and a number of enquiries for the provisions. The response is disappointing,” the official said.
According to Ravinder Singh, the deputy excise and taxation commissioner (east), the cost of the L-10F license would be comparable to that of a bar permit.
“The corporate office applying for it would have to pay INR 10 lakh annually as the licence fee. Besides, it will have to cough up INR 3 lakh as security deposit,” he added.
Amit Bhatia, his counterpart in the west zone, mentioned that one of the prerequisites for obtaining the license was the necessity for the office to be located in an independent structure.
“The premises have to be one single patch. There can’t be a thoroughfare or links to any other building,” he said.
Consequently, buildings that house multiple offices, a common occurrence in the city, are excluded from consideration. Additionally, the policy does not extend to Special Economic Zones (SEZs) and IT Parks. Since liquor licenses in these establishments fall under the jurisdiction of the town and country planning department, they are prohibited from serving any form of alcohol. Liquor licenses are not granted to offices located in IT Parks and SEZs, even temporarily or for events.
“With all such offices out of the purview, there will only be a dozen establishments that will meet the criteria of this policy. And even those that do may not apply for the licence because their HR policy may not allow liquor on the office premises,” another official said.
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