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Discover the ultimate morning ritual: Why drinking saunf water on an empty stomach is a game-changer

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saunf water

The way we start our mornings can greatly influence the rest of our day. Establishing a healthy morning routine can set a positive tone, boost productivity, and promote overall well-being. While there are countless morning rituals to choose from, one that has gained popularity in recent years is drinking saunf water on an empty stomach. 

Saunf water is a traditional beverage made by steeping fennel seeds in water. Fennel seeds, also known as saunf, are derived from the fennel plant (Foeniculum vulgare). They have been used for centuries in various cuisines and herbal remedies due to their distinct flavor and medicinal properties. When infused in water, the seeds release their aromatic compounds, creating a refreshing and health-enhancing drink.

In this article, we will delve into the wonders of safflower water and explore why it can transform your mornings.

The Health Benefits of Saunf Water

  • Digestive Aid and Gut Health

Saunf water is renowned for its digestive properties. It acts as a natural digestive aid, stimulating the secretion of digestive enzymes and improving overall digestion. It can alleviate indigestion, bloating, and constipation, promoting a healthy gut and preventing digestive discomfort.

  • Relieves Bloating and Gas

The carminative properties of fennel seeds help alleviate bloating and gas, making saunf water an effective remedy for those struggling with these symptoms. It aids in the release of trapped gas and reduces abdominal distension, providing relief and comfort.

  • Alleviates Menstrual Symptoms

For women experiencing menstrual discomfort, safflower water can offer relief. Its antispasmodic properties help relax the uterine muscles, reducing menstrual cramps and soothing other associated symptoms such as nausea and fatigue.

  • Boosts Immune System

Fennel seeds are rich in antioxidants and immune-boosting compounds. Regular consumption of saunf water can strengthen the immune system, protect against common illnesses, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

  • Promotes Weight Loss

If you’re aiming for weight loss, saunf water can be a valuable addition to your routine. The seeds contain essential oils that stimulate the metabolism and suppress appetite, aiding in weight management. Additionally, the diuretic properties of saunf water can help eliminate excess water weight.

  • Improves Skin Health

The antioxidants present in fennel seeds can help combat free radicals, which contribute to skin aging. Saunf water promotes healthy skin by detoxifying the body and improving blood circulation, resulting in a clearer complexion and a youthful glow.

How to Prepare Saunf Water

  • Ingredients and Equipment Needed

To prepare saunf water, you will need the following ingredients and equipment:

  • 1 tablespoon of fennel seeds
  • 1 cup of water (250 ml)
  • Saucepan or kettle
  • Strainer or sieve
  • Glass or mug for serving
  • Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
  • Follow these simple steps to prepare saunf water:
  • Start by boiling water in a saucepan or kettle.
  • Once the water reaches a boiling point, add the fennel seeds to the water.
  • Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 5-10 minutes.
  • After simmering, remove the saucepan from heat and allow the saunf water to cool for a few minutes.
  • Strain the water using a sieve or strainer to separate the fennel seeds.
  • Pour the strained saunf water into a glass or mug for serving.
  • Your saunf water is now ready to be consumed.

The Ideal Time to Drink Saunf Water

For maximum benefits, it is recommended to drink saunf water on an empty stomach in the morning. When consumed before breakfast, saunf water can effectively cleanse the digestive system, stimulate metabolism, and prepare the body for the day ahead. It is advised to wait for at least 30 minutes before having breakfast after consuming saunf water to allow proper digestion.

Tips for Incorporating Saunf Water into Your Morning Routine

Here are some tips to help you incorporate saunf water into your morning routine:

  • Prepare saunf water the night before to save time in the morning.
  • Drink saunf water at room temperature or slightly warm for better absorption.
  • You can enhance the flavor of saunf water by adding a squeeze of lemon or a dash of honey if desired.
  • Consider making a larger batch of saunf water and refrigerating it for a few days to have it readily available each morning.
  • Use high-quality organic fennel seeds to ensure maximum health benefits.

Precautions and Potential Side Effects

While saunf water is generally safe for consumption, it is essential to be aware of potential side effects and take necessary precautions:

  • Some individuals may be allergic to fennel seeds. If you have known allergies to plants in the carrot family (such as celery, coriander, or dill), consult a healthcare professional before consuming saunf water.
  • Excessive consumption of saunf water may lead to hormonal imbalances in certain individuals. It is recommended to consume it in moderation and discontinue use if any adverse effects occur.
  • If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your doctor before incorporating saunf water into your routine.

Incorporating saunf water into your morning ritual can be a game-changer for your overall well-being. From aiding digestion and relieving bloating to boosting the immune system and promoting weight loss, saunf water offers a wide array of health benefits. With its ease of preparation and refreshing taste, saunf water is a simple yet powerful addition to your daily routine.

Remember to source high-quality fennel seeds and practice moderation while consuming saunf. By embracing this ultimate morning ritual, you can kickstart your day on a healthy note, promoting optimal digestion, improved skin health, and a revitalized body and mind. Cheers to a healthier you with Saunf water!

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Boost your health with these perfect green tea food pairings!

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green tea food pairings

Green tea has long been known for its numerous health benefits. Packed with antioxidants and other beneficial compounds, green tea has been shown to improve brain function, aid in weight loss, lower the risk of heart disease, and even reduce the risk of certain types of cancer. But did you know that pairing green tea with specific foods can enhance its health benefits and create a delightful culinary experience?

In this article, we will explore the perfect green tea food pairings that can boost your health and tantalize your taste buds.

Choosing the Right Green Tea

To fully enjoy the benefits of green tea food pairings, it’s essential to choose the right type of green tea. There are several varieties of green tea available, each with its unique flavor profile and health benefits. Some popular types of green tea include sencha, matcha, genmaicha, and jasmine green tea.

Sencha is the most commonly consumed green tea in Japan and has a refreshing, grassy flavor. Matcha, on the other hand, is a powdered green tea that is whisked into hot water, creating a vibrant, frothy beverage with a slightly bitter taste. Genmaicha is a blend of green tea leaves and roasted brown rice, giving it a nutty and toasty flavor. Jasmine green tea is scented with jasmine flowers, resulting in a fragrant and floral infusion.

Understanding Flavor Profiles

When it comes to green tea food pairings, it’s important to consider the flavor profiles of both the tea and the accompanying food. The delicate and nuanced flavors of green tea can be complemented or contrasted by choosing the right food pairings.

Some general guidelines for flavor pairings with green tea include:

  • Light and subtle foods: Opt for foods that are not overpowering in flavor, as they can overshadow the delicate taste of green tea. Light seafood, salads, and lightly seasoned dishes are excellent choices.
  • Earthy and nutty flavors: Green teas with roasted notes, such as genmaicha, pair well with earthy and nutty flavors. Think roasted vegetables, grains, and roasted nuts.
  • Fruity and floral flavors: Green teas with floral or fruity undertones, like jasmine green tea, can be paired with dishes that have similar flavor profiles. Fresh fruits, floral-infused desserts, and light pastries make delightful accompaniments.

Perfect Green Tea Food Pairings

Now that we understand the health benefits of green tea and how to match flavors, let’s explore the perfect green tea food pairings that can take your tea-drinking experience to the next level.

  • MUESLI BARS

Muesli bars, packed with oats, nuts, and dried fruits, are an excellent choice to pair with green tea. The crunchy texture and natural sweetness of the bars complement the refreshing and slightly bitter taste of green tea. The combination provides a balanced and satisfying snack that is not only delicious but also nutritious. Muesli bars are rich in fiber, protein, and healthy fats, making them a great source of sustained energy and a perfect accompaniment to a cup of green tea.

  • SEAFOOD

Seafood, such as grilled fish or steamed shrimp, pairs exceptionally well with green tea. The light and delicate flavors of seafood harmonize with the subtle grassy notes of green tea, creating a delightful combination. The antioxidants in green tea can also help counteract the potential harmful effects of consuming grilled seafood, making it a healthier choice. Whether you enjoy sushi, sashimi, or a simple seafood salad, green tea is an ideal beverage to enhance your dining experience.

  • CUCUMBER SANDWICH

The classic cucumber sandwich is not only a delightful tea-time treat but also a perfect companion to green tea. The cool and crisp texture of cucumber slices complements the refreshing nature of green tea, creating a refreshing and light combination. The simplicity of the cucumber sandwich allows the flavors of both the tea and the sandwich to shine, making it a go-to option for a light and healthy snack.

  • CHICKEN OR TURKEY

Green tea pairs well with lean proteins like chicken or turkey. Grilled, baked, or roasted chicken or turkey dishes offer a savory and flavorful component that complements the earthy and vegetal notes of green tea. Whether it’s a chicken salad, turkey wrap, or grilled chicken skewers, incorporating these lean meats into your meal alongside a cup of green tea provides a well-balanced and nutritious combination.

  • ROASTED RICE

If you’re looking to add a unique twist to your green tea experience, try pairing it with roasted rice. Genmaicha, a type of green tea blended with roasted brown rice, offers a toasty and nutty flavor that pairs exceptionally well with a variety of dishes. The nuttiness of roasted rice complements the earthy and grassy notes of green tea, creating a robust and satisfying combination. Enjoy genmaicha alongside rice bowls, stir-fried vegetables, or even sushi for a delightful fusion of flavors.

  • HEALTHY BISCUITS

Opt for whole-grain or oat-based biscuits to pair with green tea. These healthier alternatives to traditional biscuits provide a slightly sweet and crunchy texture that complements the subtle bitterness of green tea. Look for biscuits that are low in sugar and made with wholesome ingredients like nuts, seeds, and dried fruits. These biscuits not only satisfy your craving for a snack but also provide added nutrients and fiber.

  • CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIES

For those with a sweet tooth, pairing green tea with chocolate chip cookies can be a delightful indulgence. The richness of chocolate and the sweetness of the cookies contrast with the slightly astringent taste of green tea, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. Opt for dark chocolate chips or cookies with less sugar to maintain a healthier balance. Enjoy a small cookie or two alongside your green tea for a satisfying treat.

  • CAKE

If you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to indulge, pairing green tea with a slice of cake can be a delightful experience. Opt for lighter and less sweet cakes, such as sponge cakes or matcha-flavored cakes, to complement the subtle flavors of green tea. The combination of a moist and flavorful cake with a cup of green tea creates a balance of sweetness and bitterness that can elevate your tea-drinking experience.

OTHER HEALTHY OPTIONS

In addition to the perfect green tea food pairings mentioned above, here are a few more healthy options that can complement your green tea:

  • Roasted Chickpea (Chana):Roasted chickpeas, also known as chana, make a delicious and nutritious snack to enjoy with green tea. These crispy and flavorful legumes are high in protein and fiber, making them a satisfying and healthy option. Season them with spices like paprika, cumin, or garlic powder for an extra kick of flavor. The crunchy texture and savory taste of roasted chickpeas pair well with the subtle bitterness of green tea, creating a delightful combination.
  • Fruit salads: Fresh fruits are an excellent choice to enjoy alongside green tea. The natural sweetness and juiciness of fruits provide a refreshing contrast to the earthy flavors of green tea. Create a colorful fruit salad with a variety of seasonal fruits like berries, citrus fruits, melons, and grapes. The combination of hydrating fruits and antioxidant-rich green tea can boost your overall health and well-being.
  • Roasted Makhana (Foxnuts): Makhana, or foxnuts, are nutritious and crunchy snacks that can be enjoyed with green tea. These seeds are low in calories and high in fiber, making them a healthy alternative to traditional snacks. Roast them with a touch of ghee or sprinkle them with spices like turmeric, chaat masala, or cinnamon for added flavor. The light and crispy texture of roasted makhana pairs well with the subtle flavors of green tea, providing a satisfying and guilt-free snack option.

So, the next time you enjoy a cup of green tea, consider the perfect food pairing to elevate your tea-drinking experience and nourish your body.

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Walko Food’s NIC ice cream brand secures $11 Million investment in funding round led by Jungle Ventures

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nic
With the newly acquired capital, the company aims to bolster its production capabilities, improve its product offerings, and expand its distribution network. (Representative Image)

Pune-based Walko Food, the owner of the renowned ice cream brand NIC, has successfully raised $11 million in a growth funding round led by Jungle Ventures. This significant investment reflects the confidence placed in Walko Food and its delicious NIC ice cream by Jungle Ventures and highlights the brand’s potential for further growth and success.

According to Tracxn data, the total funding raised by the company has reached $8.65 million. In June 2021, the company successfully secured its latest funding round of $6.1 million, with J M Financial leading the investment.

With the newly acquired capital, the company aims to bolster its production capabilities, improve its product offerings, and expand its distribution network. Additionally, the company intends to invest in its technology systems. Its overarching goal is to seize a greater portion of the ice cream market in India.

In 2012, Jeetendra Bhandari, Sanjiv Shah, and Raj Bhandari Co-Founded Walko Food with a specific emphasis on frozen dessert products. The company then introduced its ice cream brand NIC in 2015.

Speaking on the funding, Walko Food Director Sanjiv Shah said, “With this new investment, we will continue to expand our reach, enhance our product portfolio, and earn a position as one of the market leaders in the ice cream industry. The company plans to invest heavily in the systems and other resources required to achieve the growth.”

Over the past five years, Walko has achieved an impressive compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of 90%. Its reach extends to more than 100 cities across India, solidifying its presence in the market.

Arpit Beri, Principal, India Investments at Jungle Ventures—a Singapore-based venture capital firm focused on early to growth-stage companies in Southeast Asia and India—said, “We see enormous potential in Walko to revolutionise the Indian ice cream and desserts industry. Through disruptive innovation across the entire value chain, from supply chain optimisation to pioneering modes of preparation, Walko is poised to become a major food company.”

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Scuzo Ice ‘O’ Magic sets a milestone with the first live popsicle outlet in Andhra Pradesh

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Scuzo Ice 'O' Magic
Scuzo Ice 'O' Magic (Representative Image)

Scuzo, the renowned dessert brand, has set its sights on revolutionizing the ice cream industry in India while capturing the nostalgic essence of childhood. With their latest venture, Scuzo Ice ‘O’ Magic, a trailblazing dessert café, they have successfully launched in Rajahmundry, Andhra Pradesh. By offering live popsicle creations, Scuzo Ice ‘O’ Magic is setting a new standard in dessert innovation and establishing itself as a leading player in the market.

Driven by the growing demand for healthier dessert options, Scuzo has taken on the responsibility of catering to customers of all ages, aiming to become a trusted and health-conscious dessert brand. With a vision to provide a wholesome and organic alternative to the existing unhealthy ice cream market, Scuzo takes the lead in India.

One of the highlights of Scuzo’s offerings is its delightful selection of popsicles, carefully crafted with a unique in-house recipe that incorporates exotic fruits and nuts. This meticulous combination elevates the natural freshness of the ice cream, providing a truly refreshing and satisfying experience. Each popsicle is a fusion of flavors sourced from across the globe, bringing together a symphony of taste that delights the palate.

Scuzo’s menu extends far beyond popsicles, offering an extensive selection of gelato flavors and an array of mouthwatering desserts. From ice-cream waffles and pancakes to milkshakes, ice cream cakes, and sundaes, they cater to all ice cream enthusiasts, ensuring their cravings are completely satisfied.

Gagan Anand, Founder, Scuzo Ice ‘O’ magic, said, “The people of Andhra Pradesh are no strangers to their fondness for sweets and desserts, thus opening another Scuzo Ice ‘O’ magic in the region quite obvious. Therefore, I am delighted to have discovered an ideal spot in Rajahmundry. Our goal is to foster and support the entrepreneurial spirit while offering our customers an unforgettable and delightful dessert experience.”

Apart from introducing distinctive desserts customized for the Rajahmundry community, the recently opened establishment will actively participate in philanthropic endeavors, striving to create a beneficial influence on society.

Scuzo Ice ‘O’ Magic is committed to actively engaging in initiatives that bring about positive change for old age homes and supporting Skill India programs, alongside various other charitable endeavors.

Through these endeavors, Scuzo Ice ‘O’ Magic strives to make a meaningful contribution to the community by supporting causes that uplift and empower individuals. Alongside their delectable dessert offerings, Scuzo fosters a sense of social responsibility and actively gives back to society.

Situated in Rajahmundry, Scuzo Ice ‘O’ Magic is a well-equipped dessert café that provides ample seating for customers who prefer to dine in. In line with the company’s ethical principles, the café proudly offers an entirely vegetarian menu, meticulously crafted using the finest, fresh, and natural ingredients.

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India’s Agrifood startup investments experience a sharp 33% decline in 2023, discloses AgFounder-Omnivore report

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The report also reveals that India emerged as the second highest funded market for agrifoodtech startups in 2022, surpassing China for the first time and trailing only the United States. (Representative Image)

AgFounder and Omnivore have recently unveiled the India Agrifood Startup Investment Report for 2023, providing comprehensive insights into the investment landscape. According to the report, there has been a decline of 33% in startup investments, amounting to $2.4 billion, compared to the previous year’s figure of $3.6 billion. It is worth noting that this decline aligns with the global trend of reduced investment in the sector. However, the report also highlights positive aspects, revealing instances where investors demonstrated a keen interest in supporting groundbreaking innovations focused on empowering farmers and combating climate change.

According to a recent report, the year 2022 witnessed a decline of 37% and 65% in funding to startups operating in the downstream and midstream sectors respectively. However, there was a significant increase of 50% in investments in upstream categories in India. It is worth noting that India is projected to surpass China as the world’s most populous nation this year. Furthermore, the report reveals that India emerged as the second highest funded market for agrifoodtech startups in 2022, surpassing China for the first time and trailing only the United States.

Providing further valuable insights, the report emphasized that startups focusing on upstream sectors, operating in proximity to farmers and spanning the entire supply chain, defied the downward trend observed worldwide. These startups secured a remarkable $617 million in funding, marking a 50% increase from the $409 million raised in 2021. Additionally, the report highlighted that investment in farmtech remained resilient, accumulating $1.1 billion in 2022, experiencing only a modest decline of 15% compared to 2021.

“It is a challenging funding environment for startups globally and, as our report shows, India is no different. The relative increase in upstream financing is a welcome bright spot and reflects the urgency to fund technologies addressing the multiple inefficiencies in our food production and distribution systems that contribute to climate change and hunger,” said Michael Dean, founding partner at AgFunder.

According to the report, access to capital in India has become more limited, aligning with the global trend, although the tightening has been less severe compared to developed markets. Despite this, venture investors in India continue to exhibit optimism towards agrifoodtech innovations in the upstream sector, which encompass activities both on the farm and within the supply chain. These investors are particularly interested in ventures that create strong barriers to entry and provide cost-effective solutions to benefit smallholder farmers.

“Across India’s agrifoodtech ecosystem, 2023 will stress test startups, while also being an ideal vintage for VCs who can enter promising deals at cheap valuations. Despite the transient headwinds, agrifoodtech in India will continue to surge ahead,” said Mark Kahn, managing partner, Omnivore.

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Indian consumers crave elevated flavors in sweet bakery items, Mintel study finds

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An overwhelming majority of 79% of Indian consumers affirm that the introduction of new and unique flavors serves as a strong motivating factor for their consumption of sweet bakery products. (Representative Image)

According to recent findings by Mintel, a new study reveals that Indian customers are craving a more elevated and exciting flavor experience when it comes to sweet bakery items. A staggering 70% of consumers surveyed expressed their dissatisfaction with the mundane and repetitive options available in this category.

In contrast to well-established sweet bakery markets, the realm of flavor innovation in India is still relatively restricted. Mintel’s Global New Products Database reveals that from December 2019 to November 2022, the UK witnessed over five times the number of distinct flavors introduced in sweet bakery product launches compared to India during the same period. The Indian market predominantly revolves around traditional favorites such as chocolate and vanilla, with limited diversification. Notably, chocolate holds the lion’s share, representing 32% of total launches, while vanilla accounts for 14% between January 2022 and December 2022.

In the broader context of the Asia-Pacific region, the flavor of pistachio has experienced a remarkable surge in popularity within the sweet bakery segment. Astonishingly, over the past three years leading up to December 2022, pistachio has witnessed an exponential growth of 1200%. This significant increase showcases the increasing demand and preference for pistachio-flavored sweet bakery products among consumers in the region.

Moreover, an overwhelming majority of 79% of Indian consumers affirm that the introduction of new and unique flavors serves as a strong motivating factor for their consumption of sweet bakery products. Interestingly, approximately one-third of the surveyed individuals have explicitly expressed their desire for more innovative offerings in the sweet bakery category. This includes a keen interest in products featuring seasonal flavors (32%) and intriguing flavor combinations (30%). These findings highlight the growing demand for fresh and exciting taste experiences among Indian consumers in the sweet bakery segment.

Seasonal flavours: A growing interest

India is notably falling behind when it comes to introducing seasonal innovations in the sweet bakery product segment. Surprisingly, only 4% of all new sweet bakery product launches in India between September 2021 and 2022 featured seasonal flavors. In comparison, the global market saw a higher percentage of 16% for seasonal launches during the same period. Notably, among the age group of Younger Millennials aged 26-32, seasonal flavors have emerged as a top interest in the sweet bakery category. An impressive 38% of Younger Millennials express a strong desire for more flavorful seasonal innovations, surpassing the overall average of 32% among all consumers. This signifies the growing importance of introducing seasonal variety to cater to the preferences of this specific consumer segment.

Anamika Banerji PhD, Food and Drink Analyst, Mintel Reports India, said, “Introducing product innovation that features seasonal flavours can be a good route to spark new interest and attract more consumers. The vast variety of seasonal fruits (eg jamun, mango) and sweet goods (eg carrot halwa) prepared during different seasons and festivals throughout the year can serve as flavour inspirations for packaged sweet bakery products.”

Ready-to-bake products attract young Indians

Among the younger demographic in India, aged 18-34, there has been a notable surge in the popularity of ready-to-bake mixes. These mixes not only provide a sense of consumer involvement and flexibility but also simplify the baking process. Specifically, among students and metropolitan residents, this trend is particularly prevalent, with 31% of students and 32% of metropolitan dwellers expressing a strong desire for this convenient baking format. The appeal of ready-to-bake mixes lies in their ability to cater to the busy lifestyles of these individuals while still allowing them to enjoy the experience of baking.

Consumers who are drawn to the concept of “ready-to-bake at home” sweet bakery products place a high value on freshness. An impressive 79% of these consumers agree that they are willing to pay a premium for packaged sweet bakery products that guarantee freshness. According to Banerji, this emphasis on freshness might be the driving force behind their preference for the ready-to-bake format. This format not only provides convenience but also allows them to experience the pleasure of consuming freshly baked treats.

Furthermore, an overwhelming majority of nearly four in five (78%) consumers who are interested in ready-to-bake products express inconvenience in sourcing all the required ingredients for a recipe. Mintel’s research reveals that this group finds the premix/DIY kit format to be a fitting solution as it provides both convenience and ensures freshness. By opting for premixes or DIY kits, these consumers can enjoy the ease of preparing baked goods without the hassle of gathering individual ingredients, all while being assured of the freshness of the final product.

Better-for-you sweet bakery: An emerging opportunity

Sweet bakery products are widely regarded as indulgent treats that have the power to uplift one’s mood, as confirmed by 77% of Indian consumers. However, there is a growing demand for healthier alternatives within this category. When choosing a healthy sweet bakery product, consumers prioritize factors such as the use of whole wheat flour (33%), all-natural ingredients (32%), and the inclusion of nuts (31%). This indicates a shift towards healthier ingredients and options in the market.

Notably, consumers in metropolitan and Tier 1 cities exhibit a particularly strong inclination towards healthier sweet bakery products, with 24% and 27% respectively expressing a desire for such alternatives. This highlights the increasing awareness and preference for healthier options among urban dwellers.

“Better-for-you versions that reduce or take away the guilt while maintaining the taste and fun element will offer permissibility. This presents a promising opportunity for the sweet bakery sector in India to innovate and cater to evolving consumer needs,” Banerji concluded.

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Zomato incurs INR 143 Crore expense in H2FY23 for CEO Deepinder Goyal’s ESOPs

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Deepinder Goyal
Deepinder Goyal

Zomato’s recent transactions filings with the exchanges have unveiled that the company bore a cost of INR 143 crore in the second half of FY23 for the Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs) provided to Deepinder Goyal, the Co-Founder of Zomato.

Furthermore, Zomato extended ESOPs valued at INR 13.5 crore and INR 10 lakh to senior executives within the company, including Akshant Goyal, the Chief Financial Officer, and Sandhya Sethia, the Company Secretary. Additionally, the food technology major disclosed in a recent shareholder letter that its expenses for implementing ESOPs decreased to INR 510 crore in FY23, down from INR 880 crore in FY22.

In its recent quarterly report, Zomato announced a reduction in losses, with the figures for the March quarter standing at INR 188.20 crore, a decrease from INR 346.60 crore in the December quarter and INR 359.70 crore in the corresponding quarter of the previous year. Zomato further revealed that its business, excluding quick commerce, achieved a positive adjusted EBITDA during the March quarter.

The term “adjusted EBITDA positive” used by Zomato indicates that, in the March quarter, the company’s operating earnings, after excluding certain non-cash expenses and one-time charges, exceeded its operating expenses.

“I would rate our current confidence level (regarding group-level profitability) at 9/10….In food delivery, over the last five quarters, we have improved our margins meaningfully while further strengthening our market position. We will continue with the same mindset as we look to further expand the Adjusted EBITDA margin (from the current 1.2 percent) to our stated goal of +4-5 percent of Gross Order Value (GOV), which would translate to ~INR 1,000 to INR 1,300 crores of annual cash operating profit at the current scale of the food delivery business,” he wrote.

Additionally, Zomato’s revenue for the quarter experienced a substantial increase of 69.66 percent, amounting to INR 2,056 crore, in comparison to INR 1,211.80 crore generated in the corresponding quarter of the previous year.

Within the shareholder letter, Goyal expressed Zomato’s objective of attaining group-level profitability, encompassing the quick commerce division Blinkit, within a span of four quarters. The company aims to achieve this by augmenting profits in the food delivery segment and minimizing losses in Blinkit, thereby working towards its goal.

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Chinese authorities grant permission for B vitamins in beverage formulations, taurine dosage levels elevated

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In 2020, Statista reported that Red Bull, recognized for its taurine-based beverages, achieved remarkable success as the top-selling energy drink brand in China. (Representative Image)

The People’s Republic of China’s National Health Commission (NHC) has recently granted approval for the inclusion of vitamins B1 and B2 in beverages. Additionally, the NHC has raised the maximum permitted dosage of taurine.

The NHC’s department of Food Safety Standards and Monitoring and Evaluation has made an announcement regarding the expansion of the utilization of vitamins B1 and B2 in beverages with specific purposes, including sports and nutrition drinks. Chinese authorities have approved a dosage range of 2mg/kg to 5mg/kg for these vitamins.

Previously, the usage of vitamins B1 and B2 was limited to being incorporated solely as food additives in dairy powder intended for children and pregnant women, as well as certain other food items. However, with this recent announcement, their scope of application has been expanded to include beverages for specific purposes.

Simultaneously, the NHC is raising the maximum authorized dosage of taurine from 0.5g/kg to 0.6g/kg. In China, taurine is presently sanctioned for inclusion in beverages with specific applications, such as sports and nutritional drinks. Taurine, an amino acid abundantly present in meat and seafood, among other sources, is a widely used ingredient globally in numerous energy drinks.

In 2020, Statista reported that Red Bull, recognized for its taurine-based beverages, achieved remarkable success as the top-selling energy drink brand in China. It accounted for an impressive 52% share of all energy drink sales in retail outlets, solidifying its market dominance.

In April, Chinese researchers published a review indicating that supplementation with adequate doses of taurine might have a beneficial impact on reducing visual fatigue. This recent study aligns with the notion that taurine supplementation could potentially help alleviate visual exhaustion.

According to the review, taurine, being a naturally occurring amino acid, possesses a commendable safety profile and is permitted for use in functional beverages and various food products in numerous countries. The review further emphasized the promising potential of taurine in the development of functional foods aimed at alleviating visual fatigue.

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Bikaji Foods International reports impressive 57.14% growth in Q4 net profit, expects strong momentum ahead

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Bikaji (Representative Image)

Bikaji Foods International, an ethnic snacks company, reported an impressive 57.14% growth in consolidated net profit for the fourth quarter (Q4) ending on March 31, 2023. According to a filing with the BSE, their net profit reached INR 38.28 crore, surpassing the previous fiscal year’s profit of INR 24.36 crore in the same period.

As per the regulatory filing, Bikaji Foods International witnessed year-on-year (YoY) growth in total income during the fourth quarter (Q4) of FY23. Their total income for the period reached INR 466.84 crore, showing an increase from the INR 405.96 crore earned in the corresponding period of the previous fiscal year.

Deepak Agarwal, Managing Director, Bikaji Foods International said, “We had a strong fiscal year FY23 with strong double-digit value (up 22 per cent YoY) and volume growth (up 15 per cent YoY), the performance was broad based across business segments. In the current quarter, the downward trend in our key input materials and efficient pricing measures has amplified profitability with the healthy gross margin of 35.2% and EBITDA margin of 13.4%.”

Anticipating a continuation of its current momentum, Bikaji Foods International foresees another double-digit growth in its topline for the next fiscal year. The company also expects improvements in margins, driven by a superior mix of products, increased operating leverage, and effective cost management.

The ethnic snacks company attributed its consistent compound annual growth rate (CAGR) in revenue to its emphasis on expanding its network.

“We remain committed on strengthening our distribution network to achieve a deeper penetration across our core & focus markets. We aim to expand our footprint to 1.5 lakhs retail stores by FY24,” Agarwal said.

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Nestlé sets sights on India as a key market for coffee expansion

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Nestlé, the renowned Swiss packaged food major, is placing a significant bet on India to fuel the growth of its coffee business. This strategic move comes at a time when India’s coffee culture is rapidly evolving, driven by the preferences of young consumers and a burgeoning interest in specialty coffee. Despite tea-drinkers still reigning supreme in the market, Nestlé sees India as one of the fastest-growing coffee markets and aims to capture the attention of more Indian consumers, persuading them to embrace the joys of coffee.

Philipp Navratil, Head of Coffee Strategic Business Unit at Nestlé said, “India is a very important market for us because of its sheer size and population offering huge headroom for growth with a low per capita consumption of coffee. We are also seeing a growing coffee culture driven by young consumers with new coffee shops coming up in the country.”

He highlighted India’s position as a swiftly emerging market for Nestlé’s global coffee business, underscoring the fact that Nescafé has already achieved a household penetration of 46 million households in the country.

“India is a sizable market already and household penetration is accelerating. We believe Nescafé is perfectly positioned to introduce coffee to new consumers as its offers great quality at accessible prices in terms of price per cup.,” Navratil said.

“Our key focus is to grow the household penetration of our coffee portfolio further in India. We believe it’s not a matter of if but when and it will probably happen faster in the southern India region as they have a well-entrenched coffee-drinking habit. We are also sharply focusing on driving efficiencies in our supply chain to maintain the “magic price points” such as INR 2 or INR 10 as they are critical to make our products accessible to a broad population,” he added.

Asked about plans for future launches, he said, “Our strategy is to continue to grow our existing core portfolio. We also want to tap into the premiumisation opportunity in India as coffee consumption is getting more sophisticated, allowing us to bring innovations to India. We may look at launching products such as coffee concentrates and single origin coffees.”

In 2012, Nestlé introduced the Nescafé Plan, a sustainability initiative, in India. Over the past decade, Nestlé India has collaborated with 3,500 coffee farmers in the country to source coffee. Navratil emphasized that Nestlé relies on Indian farmers as a key source for their coffee production, catering not only to the domestic market but also to global production needs.

“We also see a huge opportunity to leverage India as a talent factory for our global coffee business,” he added.

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