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Food truck policy in the works for Delhi, to be released for public feedback soon

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food truck
Food trucks will operate during the night hours from 8 pm to 2 am at the designated site where they will be stationed. (Representative Image)

The Delhi government is currently in the process of developing a food truck policy, which is expected to be completed in the next few months and subsequently made available for public feedback, according to officials.

Officials have revealed that meetings are scheduled with different stakeholders to discuss the different aspects of the food truck policy.

As per their statement, the stakeholders who will be participating in the meetings include the MCD, DMRC, traffic police, and Transport Department.

“We have identified metro stations and parking sites as hubs for setting up food trucks. But it will have to be seen under which category these trucks can be placed by the Transport department and also the rules governing their plying in Delhi, the official said.

We will also need the Delhi Metro and the MCD to be on board since we plan to station these food trucks at metro stations and parking sites,” he said.

The official has clarified that as per the framework, food trucks will operate during the night hours from 8 pm to 2 am at the designated site where they will be stationed. They will come and go from the location.

“Currently there are no food trucks in Delhi. There are only shops that are given the shape of trucks but these will be proper food trucks. We will have concessionaires who will bring in different vendors along with these trucks and they will be responsible for clearances and other things,” the official said.

He mentioned that the Tourism department aims to conclude the policy within the next few months.

“We are looking at finalising the policy within the next couple of months, following which it will be put up online for public feedback,” the official said.

In the previous year, former Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia had announced that the government was in the process of preparing a food truck policy.

During the presentation of the Rozgaar Budget for the fiscal year 2022-23, he had announced that the government was preparing a policy to permit food trucks to operate at designated locations in the city from 8 pm to 2 am.

“This will strengthen the night economy of Delhi and new employment opportunities will be created,” Sisodia had said.

According to government estimates, the promotion of the food truck business in the city could lead to the creation of at least 15,000 new job opportunities.

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Maharashtra sees record-breaking 23% surge in alcohol sales, resulting in a 25% rise in revenue

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Alcohol consumption in Maharashtra saw a 23% jump in sales between 2021-22 and 2022-23, as per data from the excise department. Despite a rise in prices, senior officials have noted that this surge marks the biggest year-on-year increase seen in several decades.

A significant boost of nearly 25% in revenue was recorded by the state through a record-breaking excise haul of INR 21,550 crore. This was a result of the surge in alcohol consumption between 2021-22 and 2022-23 in Maharashtra.

Officials have stated that the impressive performance of beer and wine can be attributed to a liberalized policy that aims to increase their sales.

The regions of Nagpur, Aurangabad, and Kolhapur have witnessed the most remarkable surge in revenue, surpassing the traditionally profitable Mumbai-Thane, Pune, and Nashik regions. Nagpur recorded the highest growth with a 42.9% increase in revenue, followed by Aurangabad and Kolhapur with 29.7% and 28.5% respectively. On the other hand, Mumbai-Thane, Pune, and Nashik have experienced an annual increase of approximately 23% in excise revenue.

Sumit Chawala, who serves as the Vice President of the Association of Progressive Retail Liquor Vendors (APRLV), has stated that the state’s policy to liberalize the sale of beer and wine, particularly in Nagpur, Kolhapur, and Aurangabad, has enhanced the availability of these beverages. As a result, there has been an increase in consumption as well as revenue.

According to Chawala, a significant increase in sales can be expected in the Mumbai-Thane, Nashik, and Pune regions if the state eventually reduces taxes on beer.

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Westlife Foodworld eyes significant expansion with 580-630 new McDonald’s restaurants in India by 2027

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Westlife Foodworld, the franchisee of McDonald’s in India, has stated in a BSE filing that it has plans to expand its restaurant chain by opening 580-630 new locations by 2027.

During the fourth quarter (Q4) of FY23, Westlife opened 18 new restaurants and is now planning to accelerate its expansion by adding 40-45 more restaurants in FY24.

According to a regulatory filing, Westlife had a total of 357 restaurants across 56 cities, including 311 McCafés, 220 Experience of the Future (EOTF) restaurants, and 68 Drive-Thrus as of March 2023.

Amit Jatia, Vice-Chairman of the company said, “FY 23 was a landmark year for Westlife Foodworld. Our strong performance, delivered by our omnichannel strategy, menu innovations, store modernization, and cost optimization strategies, is a testament to our scale and agility.”

According to Jatia, the company is currently experiencing a robust growth trajectory and intends to leverage its competitive strengths to maintain its business advantage going forward.

In the previous fiscal year, Westlife bolstered its menu offerings with a focus on big burger innovations, introducing new items such as the chicken big mac and cheesy nuggets.

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Shifting consumer preferences in small towns boost sales of branded kitchen staples

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kitchenstaples
(Representative Image)

Branded edible oils, rice, and wheat flour have witnessed a surge in sales of up to 15% in small towns since April, as reported by industry officials. This increase is attributed to the fall in commodity prices and the profitable yields for farmers’ rabi crop.

Gemini Edibles & Fats India, Adani Wilmar, and GRM Overseas, marketers of kitchen staples, have confirmed a shift towards branded products from unbranded ones in tier-2 and tier-3 markets. This shift is due to the reduction in prices of branded products.

In the past, consumers in small towns generally opted for loose products due to their lower prices.

“Prices of branded oils are almost on par with loose oils, which has prompted buyers in smaller towns and upcountry consumers to shift to the branded category,” said Pradeep Chowdhry, Managing Director of Gemini Edibles & Fats that sells edible oils under the brand name Freedom.

According to him, consumers from tier-2 and tier-3 markets are showing a preference for premium brands instead of local ones, as the disparity in prices between imported sunflower and soybean oils and domestic oils has greatly diminished.

“Since April, there has been a 10%-15% rise in sales of branded oils in these markets,” Chowdhry said.

Experts in the industry suggest that the prices of edible oil could see a further decrease as international prices continue to trend downward. This could potentially lead to an increase in the consumption of branded oil products.

“With the edible oil prices beginning to show a downward trend and are set to witness further reduction…the Indian consumers can expect to pay less for their edible oils,” the food and public distribution ministry had said in a statement last week.

Angshu Mallick, the Managing Director of Adani Wilmar, has reported an 8% to 10% shift towards branded oil in tier-2 and tier-3 markets due to a decrease in prices of these products.

“In the case of wheat flour or atta, we have seen a 12% shift to branded products from April in smaller towns and villages,” he said.

Between January and March, there was a surge in wheat prices, leading consumers in tier-2 and tier-3 markets to switch to purchasing loose wheat flour.

“But as the prices cooled off from the end of March, we saw a shift to branded atta,” Mallick said.

Atul Garg, the Managing Director of GRM Overseas, has reported that the company has experienced a 15% transition from unbranded to branded categories for basmati rice and atta in tier-2 and tier-3 markets.

“The farmers have got good money for their crops, which is driving them to shift from unbranded to branded staples,” he said.

He further mentioned that there are indications of a revival in rural demand.

“We cater to the 5-lakh plus towns like Meerut from where our products go to sub-towns like Alwar. We are seeing that farmers from Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and Punjab, where we majorly operate, are attracted towards branded products. Also, post-Covid, health and hygiene have become a big issue and therefore, they are shifting to branded products.”

According to industry experts, the Indian market for bagged wheat flour is experiencing favorable conditions for expansion due to a combination of positive micro and macroeconomic factors. This trend is projected to persist, particularly as key market players extend their presence into rural markets across the country.

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The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf sets sights on India expansion with two new franchise partners

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CBTL presently operates roughly 30 stores in India (Representative Image)

The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf (CBTL), a popular coffee shop chain originally established in the United States, has set its sights on expanding its reach in India. Following its acquisition by Jollibee Foods Corporation, a fast food brand headquartered in the Philippines, CBTL is actively searching for new franchise partners in India. This strategic move aims to strengthen CBTL’s presence in the country and capitalize on the growing demand for its offerings.

According to sources, CBTL intends to engage with up to two master franchise partners to oversee its operations in India.

“The company is holding preliminary discussions with Indian conglomerates, large restaurant partners and family offices,” they added.

CBTL has enlisted the services of Lodha Capital Markets to provide guidance on its business plan for India and assist with the selection of a master franchise partner.

CBTL presently operates roughly 30 stores in India but has terminated its master franchise agreement with Pan India Food Solutions, a company owned by Prabhuji Pure Foods, which had store franchise rights for approximately 10 CBTL outlets under the 2019 agreement. While a store franchise partner is usually confined to a single location, a master franchise agreement provides exclusive territorial rights and unlocks greater potential for growth.

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Challenging the giants: How WAAYU’s zero commissions strategy poses a threat to Swiggy and Zomato

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WAAYU was founded in late 2022 by Anirudha Kotgire and Mandar Lande, with the backing of AHAR and Bollywood actor, Suniel Shetty.

For years, Zomato and Swiggy have held a significant portion of India’s food delivery market, creating an unchallenged duopoly in the segment.

In recent times, we have witnessed the emergence of some contenders challenging the dominance of Zomato and Swiggy, such as the government’s Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) and Thrive, among others.

Read More: ONDC sparks price war, threatens Zomato and Swiggy dominance in food delivery space

Once again, the food delivery industry has a new contender in the form of WAAYU. The platform, which operates without charging commissions, made a splashy entry on May 8th, aiming to disrupt the status quo dominated by Swiggy and Zomato. Its objective is clear – to empower restaurants by freeing them from the burden of high commissions levied by other food delivery platforms.

Read More: Indian Restaurant Association takes on Zomato and Swiggy with launch of Waayu, a zero-commission food delivery app

WAAYU was founded in late 2022 by Anirudha Kotgire and Mandar Lande, with the backing of Indian Hotel and Restaurant Association (AHAR) based in Mumbai and Bollywood actor, Suniel Shetty.

Partnering with AHAR has enabled WAAYU to save a substantial amount on customer acquisition costs. The founders have a unique plan to use these savings to enhance customer retention by passing them onto their customers.

“The tie-up with the association is helping them acquire thousands of restaurants and millions of customers,” Suniel Shetty said at the launch event on Monday.

According to reports, WAAYU has succeeded in getting 1,500 restaurants in Mumbai to sign up on its app, and the total number of downloads for the app has now crossed 25,000.

Could WAAYU be the next bully in the food delivery market, challenging Swiggy and Zomato’s reign?

Similar to Swiggy and Zomato, WAAYU is a food delivery application that assists restaurants in managing their online orders. However, what sets it apart is its role as an aggregator that operates without charging exorbitant commissions per order. This is a significant differentiation, as many restaurants struggle to operate with slim profit margins when burdened with such fees.

By following a zero-commission strategy, the company aims to motivate restaurants to offer competitive pricing and pass on the benefits to their customers, as per their assertion.

“With WAAYU, restaurants will start offering their own schemes. Further, they will be able to add value to their products, which would make a huge difference,” said Shetty.

One of the Co-Founders, Anirudha Kotgire, discussed how the platform generates revenue. He said “We have 16 revenue streams, but not all will kick in from the beginning. We will have a fixed fee deal with the restaurants at an introductory price of INR 1,000 per month per outlet. Later, it will be increased to INR 2,000 a month.”

Additionally, Kotgire mentioned that there is a one-time onboarding set-up fee of INR 3,650.

Although the co-founders of WAAYU stated that restaurants would have the option to choose between Grab, Dunzo, or their own in-house delivery personnel, they did not specify who would bear the delivery costs.

Considering the approximate monthly cost of INR 2,000 that restaurants would incur to utilize WAAYU’s platform, there is a significant possibility that these establishments may ultimately be responsible for covering delivery charges.

In addition, the platform has created a specialized application for delivery personnel, allowing restaurants to effectively oversee and organize their own delivery fleets.

WAAYU aims to provide restaurants with enhanced flexibility and control over their online ordering system, offering instant payments through the UPI network. By adopting this approach, the platform’s founders intend to counter the longer payment cycles of competitors such as Zomato and Swiggy, which can negatively impact the cash flow of restaurants.

WAAYU’s nationwide expansion strategy:

The Co-Founders have expressed their intentions to soon expand to additional cities.

“Our plan is to add additional 10,000-plus restaurants in Mumbai, Pune and the suburbs in the next three months, and then expand WAAYU to both metro and non-metro cities across India,” Lande said.

Additionally, WAAYU has plans to integrate with ONDC, which is also making its mark as a prominent player in India’s food delivery market. This integration opens up interesting possibilities for how WAAYU and ONDC can collaborate to strengthen the network and provide enhanced services to their users.

Adding to the competitive landscape, Thrive, a food delivery startup backed by Coca-Cola, presents an interesting potential rival for WAAYU. With its focus on reducing commission fees and adopting a more agile and restaurant-friendly business approach, Thrive aims to challenge the dominance of Swiggy and Zomato. This intensifies the competition between Thrive and WAAYU, making the food delivery market even more dynamic and compelling.

Regardless of the outcome, it will be captivating to witness how WAAYU competes against the formidable presence of Swiggy and Zomato in India’s thriving $5.3 billion food delivery industry. The future will unveil the dynamics and performance of WAAYU as it navigates through this competitive landscape.

Interestingly, both Swiggy and Zomato faced setbacks at the beginning of the week. Swiggy witnessed a reduction in its valuation to $5.5 billion by one of its significant investors, Invesco. On the other hand, Zomato’s two-week-long positive streak on the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) came to an end as it experienced a 7% intraday decline on Tuesday, May 9th. These developments marked a challenging start to the week for both food delivery giants.

Read More: Zomato’s share prices drop as ONDC threatens with cheaper food options

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McDonald’s operator Westlife Foodworld records impressive 31% increase in Q4 FY24 consolidated net profit

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mcd
(Representative Image)

Westlife Foodworld, the operator of McDonald’s restaurants in West and South India, has announced a 31% increase in its consolidated net profit to INR 20.09 crore for the fourth quarter (Q4) ending on March 31, 2023. This is compared to a consolidated net profit of INR 15.32 crore during the same quarter in the previous fiscal year, according to a regulatory filing.

In Q4 FY23, the company experienced a 22.2% growth in revenue from operations, reaching INR 556.37 crore, compared to INR 455.07 crore in the same period of the previous fiscal year.

The company’s revenue increase was primarily due to a double-digit growth in dine-in customers, resulting in a 38% YoY growth in on-premise business. Additionally, the McDelivery platform, the company’s own delivery channel, experienced a strong increase in its user base, with digital sales accounting for approximately 62% of the total. This was largely driven by the use of self-ordering kiosks (SOKs), as per the company’s earnings presentation.

According to the BSE filing, the company’s total expenses increased to INR 534.22 crore in Q4 FY23 from INR 447.63 crore in the same quarter of the previous fiscal year.

As a result of the strong revenue growth, the company’s restaurant operating margin increased by 34% YoY, reaching INR 136.4 crore.

Despite facing inflationary pressures and macroeconomic headwinds, the company’s operating EBIDTA increased by 26% YoY to INR 91.9 crore.

Amit Jatia, Vice-Chairman of the company said, “We were not only able to strengthen our value proposition but were also able to capitalize on our momentum to promote long-term sustainable growth for all our stakeholders. I believe we are on a strong growth trajectory and will continue to build on our competitive strengths and further our business advantage.”

By March 2023, Westlife had a total of 357 restaurants operating in 56 cities, which comprised of 68 Drive-Thrus, 311 McCafés, and 220 Experience of the Future (EOTF) restaurants.

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7 reasons why popcorn is a super healthy snack

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Popcorn

Popcorn is a popular snack that is enjoyed by people of all ages. It is often associated with movie nights and amusement park visits, but its nutritional benefits are often overlooked. Popcorn is a whole grain that is high in fiber and is a powerful antioxidant. It reduces the chances of diabetes, heart disease, and hypertension. 

In this article, we will discuss seven reasons why popcorn is a super healthy snack and the correct way to make popcorn to enhance your health.

  1. High Nutrient Value:

Popcorn is highly nutritious as it contains fiber, antioxidants, protein, folate, manganese, zinc, phosphorus, iron, and several vitamins. Air-popped popcorn with no oil added to it is a very healthy option. According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), one cup of air-popped popcorn contains approximately 31 calories, 1 gram of protein, 6 grams of carbohydrates, and 1 gram of fiber.

Popcorn is also a good source of polyphenols, which are antioxidants that prevent the cell from free radical damage. Polyphenols also increase blood circulation, improve digestion, and prevent many diseases. It may also reduce the chances of breast and prostate cancer.

  1. Lowers the Risk of Type 2 Diabetes:

Popcorn without added salt and flavor can lower the risk of type 2 diabetes that is generally high in people of middle-age. However, consuming too much popcorn can increase blood glucose in your body. Popcorn is a low-glycemic food, which means that it does not cause a rapid increase in blood sugar levels. This makes it an ideal snack for people with diabetes or those who are at risk of developing the condition.

  1. Helps with Hypertension:

Eating popcorn without adding salt or butter can help reduce the risk of hypertension. Hypertension is a condition where the blood pressure is higher than normal, which can lead to heart disease and stroke. Popcorn contains potassium, which is a mineral that helps to lower blood pressure or lowers the risk of high pressure. Popcorn also lowers the risk of heart disease due to the high amount of fiber present in them.

  1. Maintains Weight:

Popcorn is low in calories and can prevent you from gaining weight. They can keep you fuller for longer and end your cravings without adding weight to your body. However, popcorn might lead to weight gain if you prepare it in an unhealthy manner. Don’t add too much butter and salt to it. If you are on a weight loss program, popcorn can be a healthy snack option.

  1. Gluten-Free:

Popcorn is gluten-free and suitable for people with gluten sensitivity and celiac disease. Celiac disease is a condition where the body is unable to tolerate gluten, which is a protein found in wheat, rye, and barley. Popcorn is a great alternative to wheat-based snacks and is a good source of fiber. While buying packaged popcorn, remember to read the ingredients that are present. Your popcorn should mention ‘wheat’ in its components. Also avoid buying flavored popcorn.

  1. Improves Digestion:

Popcorn improves digestion and promotes regular bowel movements in your body as it is rich in fiber. It has a high level of insoluble fiber that helps draw water to the bowels and allows it to pass quickly. Insoluble fiber also adds bulk to the stool, which makes it easier to pass. However, consuming popcorn in moderate amounts as eating it in excess can cause constipation.

  1. Lowers the Risk of Heart Disease:

Popcorn is a whole grain that is high in fiber, which is beneficial for heart health. Studies have shown that consuming whole grains can reduce the risk of heart disease by up to 30%. Popcorn contains antioxidants that prevent the oxidation of cholesterol, which can lead to the formation of plaques in the arteries. These plaques can cause atherosclerosis, which can lead to heart attack and stroke. Popcorn also contains polyphenols, which are antioxidants that help to reduce inflammation in the body. This inflammation can lead to heart disease and other chronic conditions.

Popcorn is a super healthy snack that is high in fiber, antioxidants, and nutrients. It can lower the risk of type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease. Popcorn is also gluten-free and can improve digestion. However, it is essential to prepare popcorn in a healthy manner and avoid adding too much salt and butter. So next time you are looking for a healthy snack option, consider air-popped popcorn.

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Are watermelon seeds safe to swallow? Here is what experts say

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watermelon seeds

Watermelon is a delicious summer fruit that is enjoyed by people of all ages. It is juicy, refreshing, and packed with nutrients that are good for your health. When eating watermelon, you may have come across the question of whether or not it is safe to swallow the seeds. In this article, we will explore the topic and what experts have to say about it.

Are Watermelon Seeds Safe to Swallow?

The answer is yes, watermelon seeds are safe to swallow. In fact, they are rich in nutrients like protein, fiber, and minerals like magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium. They also contain small amounts of iron and zinc. Watermelon seeds have a low-calorie count and can be an excellent source of nutrition if consumed in moderation.

While swallowing watermelon seeds is not harmful, it is important to note that they are hard and may be difficult to digest. This is why many people choose to remove them from their watermelon before consuming it. Swallowing large amounts of watermelon seeds can also lead to intestinal blockages, especially in young children, so it is best to consume them in moderation.

Benefits of Eating Watermelon Seeds

As mentioned earlier, watermelon seeds are rich in nutrients and can be beneficial for your health. Here are some of the benefits of consuming watermelon seeds:

  • Rich in Protein: Watermelon seeds are a good source of protein, with around 1 gram of protein per ounce. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues in your body, and it also helps to maintain muscle mass.
  • High in Fiber: Watermelon seeds are also high in fiber, with around 1.5 grams of fiber per ounce. Fiber is essential for maintaining good digestive health and can help to prevent constipation.
  • Good Source of Minerals: Watermelon seeds are a good source of minerals like magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium. These minerals are essential for maintaining good bone health, regulating blood pressure, and supporting proper nerve and muscle function.
  • May Help Improve Blood Sugar Levels: Watermelon seeds contain compounds like citrulline and arginine, which have been shown to help improve blood sugar levels. These compounds may also help to improve insulin sensitivity and reduce inflammation in the body.
  • May Help Boost Immune Function: Watermelon seeds are also a good source of zinc, which is essential for maintaining a healthy immune system. Zinc is involved in the production of immune cells and also helps to fight off infections and diseases.

How to Consume Watermelon Seeds

If you choose to consume watermelon seeds, there are a few different ways to do so. Here are some ideas:

  • Roasted Watermelon Seeds: You can roast watermelon seeds in the oven or on the stovetop for a crunchy and nutritious snack. Simply spread the seeds out on a baking sheet or in a frying pan and cook them over medium heat until they are lightly browned.
  • Blended in Smoothies: You can also blend watermelon seeds into smoothies for an added boost of protein and fiber. Simply add a handful of seeds to your blender along with your other ingredients and blend until smooth.
  • Sprinkled on Salads: Watermelon seeds can also be sprinkled on top of salads for a crunchy and nutritious addition. Simply rinse the seeds and allow them to dry before sprinkling them on your salad.

Watermelon seeds are safe to swallow and can be a nutritious addition to your diet if consumed in moderation. They are rich in protein, fiber, and minerals, and may offer a range of health benefits, including improved blood sugar levels and immune function. However, it is important to note that they can be difficult to digest and may cause intestinal blockages if consumed in large quantities, especially in young children.

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Can overeating chia seeds cause harmful side effects? Here is what you need to know 

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chia seeds

Almost every fitness influencer that you might come across on Instagram, might tell you about “chia seed” recipes as they have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their impressive nutritional profile and versatile use in various recipes. These tiny seeds, which are native to Mexico and Guatemala, are a rich source of several essential nutrients and have been associated with a wide range of health benefits.

But just as anything else, even this food is not all white and has its own pros and cons. Let’s find out! 

Chia seeds are a nutrient-dense food, meaning they contain a wide variety of essential vitamins, minerals, and other beneficial compounds. Here are the key nutrients found in one ounce (28 grams) of chia seeds:

  • Calories: 138
  • Protein: 4.4 grams
  • Fat: 8.7 grams (including 0.6 grams of saturated fat)
  • Carbohydrates: 12.3 grams (including 10.6 grams of fiber and 0.2 grams of sugar)
  • Calcium: 177 milligrams
  • Magnesium: 64 milligrams
  • Phosphorus: 110 milligrams
  • Potassium: 44 milligrams
  • Zinc: 1.0 milligram
  • Vitamin B3 (niacin): 2.5 milligrams

As you can see, chia seeds are a rich source of several essential nutrients, including fiber, protein, calcium, and magnesium. They are also relatively low in calories and carbohydrates, making them an excellent food choice for those looking to maintain a healthy weight or regulate blood sugar levels and they are an excellent source of fiber, which is essential for maintaining digestive health and promoting regular bowel movements.

Chia seeds are one of the best plant-based sources of omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants, which are essential for brain health and may help to reduce inflammation in the body and are a good and lean source of vegan protein. 

Side Effects and Precautions when it Comes to Chia Seeds

While chia seeds are generally considered safe for most people, consuming too many chia seeds can cause some side effects. Here are some of the potential side effects of eating too many chia seeds:

Upsets the Stomach

 Chia seeds are high in fiber, which can cause digestive discomfort such as bloating, gas, and abdominal cramping, especially when consumed in large amounts.

Dehydration

Chia seeds absorb water and can swell up to 10 times their size, which can cause dehydration if they are not consumed with enough fluids. They dried up throat is more prone to result in choking of food while eating which sometimes may result in an instant death. That’s why one must be really careful while consuming chia seeds.

Interference with medication absorption

Chia seeds contain a compound called mucilage, which can interfere with the absorption of certain medications.

Blood pressure changes

Since it is known for reducing blood sugar levels, chia seeds contain a high amount of omega-3 fatty acids, which can cause blood thinning and potentially lower blood pressure, leading to dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting. That’s why it is not recommended for those who particularly have lower blood pressure.

It is essential to keep in mind that these side effects are typically only associated with consuming large amounts of chia seeds regularly. Consuming moderate amounts of chia seeds as part of a balanced diet is generally considered safe for most people.

A Desi Alternative to Chia Seeds- Sabja/Basil Seeds 

Yes, sabja seeds (also known as basil seeds or tukmaria) are a popular alternative to chia seeds. Like chia seeds, sabja seeds are rich in fiber, protein, and essential minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and iron. They also have a unique ability to swell up when soaked in water, creating a gel-like substance that can help promote feelings of fullness and aid in digestion.

One significant difference between chia and sabja seeds is their origin. Chia seeds come from a plant native to Mexico and Central America, while sabja seeds come from a plant native to India and Southeast Asia.

Sabja seeds are commonly used in Indian and Southeast Asian cuisine and are often added to drinks such as falooda, a sweet and refreshing milk-based beverage. They can also be used as a substitute for chia seeds in recipes such as smoothies, puddings, and baked goods.

It is essential to note that while sabja seeds offer many of the same nutritional benefits as chia seeds, they may not be suitable for everyone. Like chia seeds, they can cause digestive discomfort if consumed in large amounts, and some people may be allergic to them.

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