The recent spate of articles reporting on the unsatisfactory quality of airline food has caused shockwaves among passengers and food critics alike. Just when we were still processing the news of an Air India passenger who found an insect in their meal, another report has surfaced that a business-class passenger was served a solitary banana as part of their in-flight meal.
It’s hard to imagine how an airline could consider a single banana to be a reasonable meal option for a long-haul flight, but that is exactly what happened to Kris Chari, who was traveling on a Japanese airline for over seven hours from Indonesia to Tokyo. Kris had pre-ordered the VGML (vegan) option from the pre-lunch snack menu, but was surprised to find that it only consisted of a banana.
Kris Chari, said, “Before takeoff today my flight attendant confirmed that I ordered VGML and that my breakfast was a banana, by which I mistakenly assumed she meant that breakfast included a banana. When she served the banana after takeoff I thought it was just an underwhelming appetizer, but it was in fact the entire meal service! It was cute of the crew to serve the banana with chopsticks, though!”
He further added, “It was a really good banana-one of the best I’ve had recently-but it still seems more appropriate as a snack. Is catering out of CGK typically this underwhelming?”
Meanwhile, the non-vegan snack option on the airline’s menu was far more substantial, including seared tuna with a Moroccan-style eggplant salad, two kinds of cheese with orange salsa, and a baguette. One can only imagine Kris’s disappointment when he received just a single piece of fruit while other passengers were feasting on a range of delicious options.
What’s even more baffling is the inclusion of chopsticks in Kris’s meal, which seemed entirely pointless given the nature of his meal. Perhaps the airline was trying to add a touch of sophistication to the presentation, but it certainly seemed out of place.
Despite the less-than-ideal situation, Kris took it all in stride and made the most of his meal. It’s commendable that he was able to find satisfaction in a single banana, but it’s also clear that airlines need to do much better in terms of providing reasonable meal options for all passengers, regardless of their dietary preferences.
The issue of in-flight and on-train meals has been a long-standing problem for many travelers. While these meals are often included in the ticket price and provide a convenient solution to satisfy hunger, they frequently receive criticism for their taste, quality, and lack of options.
Chef Sanjeev Kapoor is a renowned Indian culinary expert who has been in the industry for decades. His opinion on food is highly valued by many, and when he speaks up about food-related issues, people tend to listen. His recent tweet about the unpalatable in-flight meal he had on an Air India flight from Nagpur to Mumbai quickly went viral, indicating just how widespread the problem is.
Sanjeev Kapoor tweeted “Wake Up @airindiain Nagpur-Mumbai 0740 flight. Cold Chicken Tikka with watermelon, cucumber, tomato and sev. Sandwich with miniscule filling of chopped cabbage with mayo. Sugar syrup sponge painted with sweetened cream and yellow glaze.”
In his tweet, Kapoor expressed his disappointment with the cold snack, almost-empty sandwich, and overly sweet dessert he was served. The chef’s tweet not only resonated with many travelers but also sparked a conversation about the quality of in-flight and on-train meals. The responses to his tweet were mixed, with some people sharing their similar experiences of receiving unsatisfactory meals during their travels, while others defended the food quality and taste they had experienced on flights.
Despite the varying opinions, it is clear that in-flight and on-train meals are a contentious issue for travelers. While they may not expect restaurant-quality food, they do expect meals that are at least appetizing, fulfilling, and satisfying. It is vital for airlines and train companies to take these concerns seriously and work towards providing better meal options that cater to a wide range of dietary preferences and restrictions.
Many people have suggested implementing a desi (Indian) menu for domestic flights, which could be a step towards satisfying passengers’ taste buds while also promoting regional cuisine. Others have suggested offering more fresh food options, such as salads and fruits, rather than just processed and packaged snacks.
The issue of in-flight and on-train meals is not a new one, and it is clear that there is room for improvement. Chef Sanjeev Kapoor’s tweet has brought attention to the issue, and it is up to airlines and train companies to listen to their customers and take steps to improve their meal options.
The concept of pet-friendly establishments is becoming increasingly popular worldwide, with more and more restaurants and cafes accommodating customers who wish to bring their pets along. The trend is particularly visible in cities, where people often seek out opportunities to bond with their pets in social settings. In recent years, many eateries have started serving special menus for pets, allowing them to indulge in delicious treats while their owners enjoy their meals.
However, in the city of Indore, a unique dhaba has emerged that takes this concept a step further. The Doggy Dhaba is an establishment designed exclusively for dogs, where they can enjoy a range of food items, stays, and even birthday parties. The dhaba’s menu features everything from basic meals to special vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, supplements, and regular dog food. The prices are reasonable, ranging from INR 7 to 500 per day, ensuring that every dog can enjoy the delights of the Doggy Dhaba.
The owner Balraj Jhala said, “My business also operates online. Dog food delivery boys are also kept who supply food both times.” And added “I have been a dog lover since the beginning. I used to work in a hotel till the year 2019, from where I fed the dogs on the way back home at night.”
The dhaba’s owners, Balraj Jha and his wife, are passionate dog lovers who were inspired to create this unique establishment during the lockdown period. They observed how difficult it was for dogs to find good food and decided to open a restaurant that catered exclusively to their furry friends. The result is a warm and welcoming environment that offers much more than just food.
In addition to the delicious cuisine, the Doggy Dhaba also provides stays for dogs, allowing them to enjoy a comfortable and safe environment while their owners are away. The dhaba also offers customized birthday parties complete with cakes, boarding services, and home delivery of their menu items. The owners are dedicated to providing the best possible experience for the dogs, and their passion and commitment are evident in every aspect of the establishment.
The Doggy Dhaba is a unique concept that highlights the growing trend of pet-friendly establishments worldwide. It provides a safe and welcoming environment for dogs, allowing them to enjoy a pleasant eating-out experience alongside their human companions.
The dhaba’s success has shown that there is a growing demand for such establishments, and it is likely that we will see more establishments like this emerge in the future. For dog lovers in Indore, the Doggy Dhaba is a must-visit destination that offers a one-of-a-kind experience for their beloved furry friends.
On Monday, a spokesperson for Nestle announced that the Swiss food giant would halt all production in Myanmar, making it the latest company to withdraw from the country following the military coup that occurred two years ago.
Since the coup, Myanmar has been embroiled in a state of turmoil, with widespread unrest and a deteriorating economy. In response, numerous foreign companies, including TotalEnergies and Chevron, as well as Norwegian telecoms operator Telenor, have all left the market.
Nestle sells popular products in Myanmar, such as Nescafe instant coffee, Maggi noodles, and Milo chocolate malt beverage. However, a local firm will now be responsible for marketing and distributing Nestle products from Thailand, Malaysia, and the Philippines instead. The spokesperson added that Nestle would do everything it could to support those affected by this decision. Currently, Nestle employs 138 people at its factory and head office in Myanmar.
A spokesperson told AFP, Due to the “current economic situation” Nestle’s factory in the commercial hub Yangon, as well as its head office, would “cease operations”.
Myanmar has had a significant influx of investors after the military relaxed its grip on the country in 2011, leading to democratic reforms and economic liberalization. However, the fallout from the 2021 coup has severely damaged the economy, resulting in more than a million people losing their jobs, according to the International Labour Organization.
The coup has also sparked renewed fighting with ethnic rebel groups, as well as the emergence of dozens of “People’s Defence Forces” fighting against the junta. Since seizing power, the military has killed over 3,000 people who were dissenting and arrested more than 19,000 people, according to a local monitoring group.
Nestle’s worldwide sales reached approximately $95 billion last year, and its decision to cease production in Myanmar is a reflection of the company’s commitment to social responsibility and ethical business practices. As the situation in Myanmar continues to evolve, it remains to be seen how other international companies will respond to the country’s political and economic instability.
Ghost Kitchens, a cloud kitchen incubator, has announced its acquisition of Speak Burgers, a gourmet cloud kitchen startup owned by celebrity chef Vicky Ratnani. The deal is aimed at enabling Ghost Kitchens to expand its offerings to the premium segment, catering to high-spending customers. The acquisition will also help Ghost Kitchens to create a range of premium food delivery brands that operate on popular platforms such as Swiggy and Zomato.
As part of the deal, Ratnani will be joining Ghost Kitchens as the Chief Culinary Officer and Co-founder. The company has also announced plans to launch three new brands in partnership with Ratnani, targeting both the mass premium and cloud kitchen categories. This move is aimed at enabling Ghost Kitchens to scale its offerings and add an additional 400 fulfilment partners over the next three years.
Karan Tanna, Founder and CEO of Ghost Kitchens, said “With our presence in 40 cities, we have gaps in supply of premium brands, which we will quickly fill through this collaboration.”
Ghost Kitchens, which was founded in 2019 by Jayendra Vandravandas Tanna and Karan Tanna, operates a fund and an incubator that is solely focused on cloud kitchens. The company currently works with 160 fulfilment partners in around 40+ cities for its own portfolio of brands. Its portfolio includes popular brands such as Wakka Wakka, Biryani Hazir Ho, Momo Guy, Starboy Pizza And Shakes, and Maa Ki Khichdi, among others. The company claims to have more than 1,200 digital-focussed restaurants in 42 cities across the country.
At the end of December 2022, Ghost Kitchens had an annual GMV run rate of INR 60 Cr. The startup aims to scale its offerings to more than 4,000 internet restaurants in the next one year and is targeting an annual run rate of INR 500 Cr by the end of 2024. In October 2022, the company announced plans to invest INR 50 Cr over the next one year to scale operations.
Speak Burgers, on the other hand, plans to scale its presence to more than 200 locations in the next three years through fulfilment partner programmes. So far, the startup has raised $1.2 Mn across two funding rounds from investors such as Yuj Ventures, Dholakia Ventures, and Salarpuria Family office, among others.
The cloud kitchen domain is populated by big names such as Rebel Foods, FreshMenu, Box8, and Faasos, among others. According to a report, the homegrown cloud kitchen market was valued at $400 Mn at the end of 2019, and it is projected to grow to $2 Bn by 2024. The acquisition of Speak Burgers is expected to help Ghost Kitchens to capture a significant share of this market and establish itself as a leading player in the cloud kitchen space.
R Madhavan, the heartthrob of many, is not only known for his charming looks but also for his dedication to a vegan lifestyle. The actor has been following a plant-based diet for a few years now and has openly spoken about the benefits it has brought him.
A vegan diet is a type of vegetarian diet that excludes all animal products. This means no meat, fish, dairy, eggs, or honey. Instead, vegans rely on plant-based protein sources such as legumes, nuts, seeds, and grains to meet their nutritional needs.
A vegan diet has numerous health benefits, including reduced risk of heart disease, lower blood pressure, and improved digestion. It is also a great way to manage weight and prevent chronic diseases like type 2 diabetes.
R Madhavan’s journey towards a vegan lifestyle began when he reduced his meat intake for health reasons. He was concerned about the impact of consuming meat on his health and the environment. As he learned more about the benefits of a plant-based diet, he decided to transition to a fully vegan lifestyle.
R Madhavan’s Vegan Diet
R Madhavan follows a strict vegan diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and nuts. He believes a plant-based diet is a key to staying healthy and fit. He also avoids processed foods, refined sugar, and artificial ingredients. R Madhavan’s favorite vegan dishes include vegan biryani, tofu tikka, lentil soup, and vegetable stir-fry. He also loves to make smoothies and juices using fresh fruits and vegetables.
Skincare and Veganism
In addition to his vegan diet, R Madhavan is known for his skincare routine. He credits his flawless skin to a healthy diet and regular skincare routine. He uses natural and vegan products such as coconut oil, aloe vera, and vitamin E to maintain his skin.
R Madhavan’s vegan lifestyle is a testament to the benefits of a plant-based diet. Not only has it improved his health and well-being, but it has also contributed to his youthful appearance.
If you are considering adopting a vegan lifestyle, take inspiration from R Madhavan and slowly transition. Start by reducing your meat intake and incorporating more plant-based foods into your diet.
Recently, Indians have preferred dining out instead of relying on food delivery services. This trend is proving to be detrimental to quick-service restaurants (QSRs) and food delivery apps alike. Swiggy, one of India’s largest food delivery apps, has noted this trend and announced that it will integrate its dine-out offerings onto its platform across 24 cities. This will allow users to access discounts as they book through the app.
While QSRs have been aggressively expanding in the last two years, with many new store openings, few have been concentrating on providing dine-in experiences. Only one chain, McDonald’s, run by Westlife Foodworld in India, has been successful in this regard by focusing on an omnichannel strategy. McDonald’s reported a 20% year-on-year same-store sales growth, driven by higher guest count and average order value, due to its meals and omnichannel strategy.
The pizza category, where the product is designed for delivery, has suffered the most due to this trend. The franchises that run Pizza Hut saw a sequential fall in same-store sales growth by 4% and 6%, respectively. Jubilant, which runs Domino’s, showed almost flat same-store sales growth sequentially. BNP Paribas reports that the demand for pizza has softened due to its larger delivery salience, relatively higher penetration, and elevated competitive intensity.
KFC witnessed a decline in its average daily sales per store both sequentially and year-on-year due to weak consumer spending and incremental store additions in non-metro cities that typically have lower sales. While 35% of sales for Domino’s comes from on-premises, for McDonald’s, that percentage stands at 52%; for Pizza Hut, it’s 41%; and for KFC, it’s 54%.
Additionally, almost all QSRs have been expanding their store numbers but reducing store sizes to make them delivery-friendly. Even Pizza Hut, which started as a dine-in brand, changed its strategy to focus on delivery in the last few years to catch up with its closest competitor, Domino’s.
Apart from changing preferences, Indians also seem to be rethinking their discretionary spending, which is eating into the QSR business. Rising inflationary pressures, a cut in household expenses, and consumers’ down-trading behavior are all contributing factors. This has led to a slowdown in discretionary consumption, especially post-Diwali, dampening the strong demand sentiment that QSR players witnessed in the past few quarters.
Moreover, the growth that most consumer companies have foreseen might be a mirage. The growth rate for food delivery has slowed down versus projections, which has led to Swiggy laying off 380 employees in January. Zomato has also exited 225 small cities to control falling revenues where performance was not very encouraging.
Franchises running these brands are looking to double their store count in the next four to five years, adding as many as 820-920 such restaurants annually. However, store expansion targets might need to be toned down if the growth remains weak. Rising wheat and cheese prices have been biting into their margins, and muted sales have given them little room for price hikes, which could further pressure sales and margins. With tightening competition, QSRs are chasing a shrinking pie that could get smaller as consumers watch how much they spend.
The trend of Indians preferring to dine out rather than relying on delivery services is impacting QSRs and food delivery apps. The pandemic has accelerated this trend, and it is unclear when it will reverse. In the meantime, QSRs and food delivery apps will need to adapt to this new normal and find innovative ways to attract customers.
As the temperature rises and the sun shines bright, summer is the perfect time to refresh your diet with seasonal foods. Eating seasonally has numerous benefits, including supporting local agriculture, reducing the carbon footprint, and improving the taste and quality of your food.
Summer is the perfect time to embrace a diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables, as many of them are at their peak during this season. In this article, we will discuss the benefits of eating seasonal foods in summer and explore some of the top foods to eat as summer approaches.
Eating seasonally means consuming foods that are grown and harvested at the same time of year that you eat them. It is important to eat seasonal foods for several reasons, including Nutritional value, Support to local agriculture and for best of their Taste and Quality.
Benefits of Eating Seasonal Foods in Summer
Summer is a great time to eat seasonal foods because many of them are at their peak during this season such as Mangoes. Some of the benefits of eating seasonal foods in summer include:
Hydration: Many summer fruits and vegetables, such as watermelon and cucumber, are high in water content, which helps to keep you hydrated during the hot summer months.
Immune System Boost: Summer produce is packed with vitamins and minerals that can help boost your immune system. For example, tomatoes are rich in vitamin C, which can help protect against illness and disease.
Antioxidants: Many summer fruits and vegetables are rich in antioxidants, which can help protect against cellular damage and reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease.
Weight Management: Eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables can help you maintain a healthy weight. Many summer produce items are low in calories and high in fiber, which can help you feel full and satisfied.
The foods to eat as the Summer approach are:
1. Berries
Berries are a delicious and nutritious addition to any summer diet. They’re packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber, making them an excellent choice for maintaining good health. Some of the most popular berries to eat during the summer include strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries.
Strawberries are high in vitamin C, which can help boost the immune system and protect against sun damage. They’re also rich in folate, a nutrient that’s important for pregnant women. Blueberries, on the other hand, are known for their anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the risk of heart disease and other chronic conditions. Raspberries and blackberries are also rich in antioxidants and fiber, making them a great choice for maintaining healthy digestion.
2. Watermelon
Watermelon is a summertime classic that’s both refreshing and hydrating. It’s made up of more than 90% water, which makes it an excellent choice for staying hydrated during hot summer days. It’s also packed with vitamins A and C, as well as potassium, which can help regulate blood pressure and promote healthy kidney function.
In addition to its nutritional benefits, watermelon is also a low-calorie fruit that can help you feel full and satisfied without consuming too many calories. It’s also a great source of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that’s been linked to a reduced risk of cancer and other chronic diseases.
3. Tomatoes
Tomatoes are another summer favorite that can be used in a variety of dishes, from salads to sandwiches to pasta sauces. They’re a rich source of vitamins A and C, as well as potassium and lycopene. Lycopene, in particular, is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which can help protect against heart disease and other chronic conditions.
In addition to their nutritional benefits, tomatoes are also low in calories and high in fiber, making them a great choice for weight management. They’re also rich in antioxidants, which can help protect against damage from UV radiation and other environmental stressors.
4. Cucumber
Cucumbers are a refreshing and hydrating vegetable that’s perfect for hot summer days. They’re made up of more than 95% water, which makes them an excellent choice for staying hydrated. They’re also rich in vitamin K, which is important for bone health, and vitamin C, which can help boost the immune system.
In addition to their nutritional benefits, cucumbers are also low in calories and high in fiber, making them a great choice for weight management. They’re also rich in antioxidants, which can help protect against damage from free radicals and other environmental stressors.
5. Peaches
Peaches are a sweet and juicy fruit that’s perfect for summer. They’re a rich source of vitamins A and C, as well as potassium and fiber. Potassium is important for regulating blood pressure and promoting healthy kidney function, while fiber is important for maintaining healthy digestion.
In addition to their nutritional benefits, peaches are also low in calories and high in antioxidants, which can help protect against damage from UV radiation and other environmental stressors. They’re also a good source of beta-carotene, a nutrient that’s important for eye health.
6. Corn
Corn is a classic summer staple, and for good reason. It’s versatile, delicious, and packed with nutrients. Corn is a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals like vitamin C, folate, and potassium. Plus, it’s low in fat and calories, making it a great option if you’re trying to eat healthy. Whether you prefer it grilled, boiled, or roasted, corn is a tasty and nutritious addition to any summer meal.
7. Zucchini
Zucchini is another summer vegetable that’s worth adding to your plate. It’s low in calories and high in fiber, making it a great choice if you’re trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight. Zucchini is also a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and magnesium. You can enjoy it raw, grilled, or roasted, and it makes a great addition to salads, stir-fries, and pasta dishes.
These 7 Foods will play a crucial role in your diet as summer is round the corner. It is also quite advised to drink a lot of water and Hydrate yourself to fight the summer heat, along with these delightful foods.
North Korea has been facing chronic food shortages for many years, exacerbated by a variety of factors such as poor weather conditions, mismanagement, and economic sanctions. The country has traditionally relied on international aid to help feed its population, but in recent years, this aid has decreased significantly.
In addition, the COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on North Korea’s economy, with border closures and trade restrictions leading to increased food shortages.
In response to these challenges, the North Korean government has been trying to boost its agricultural production, with a particular focus on increasing grain production. During the recent Workers’ Party meeting, Kim Jong Un emphasized the importance of public solidarity behind his leadership in order to achieve this goal.
However, some observers have expressed skepticism that the government’s efforts will be successful, given the country’s limited resources and focus on its nuclear program.
Despite these challenges, North Korea has been able to maintain a certain level of food security in recent years, largely through government control of the food distribution system. However, this has led to significant inequalities, with those who are politically connected receiving preferential treatment over ordinary citizens.
The international community has expressed concern about the situation in North Korea, with several organizations calling for increased aid and humanitarian assistance to help alleviate the country’s food crisis. However, this aid has been hampered by political tensions and concerns about the North Korean government’s use of resources.
It remains unclear how the situation in North Korea will develop in the coming years, and whether the government’s efforts to boost agricultural production will be successful in the face of these challenges.
Fruits are essential to a healthy diet, packed with nutrients, fiber, and antioxidants. However, did you know there is a right way to eat fruits to maximize health benefits?
Choosing the right way to eat fruits can help you get the maximum health benefits while preventing digestive discomfort as a result of eating them incorrectly. You can enjoy the delicious taste of fruits as well as their numerous health benefits by following these tips. Fruits can also be consumed in various ways, such as smoothies, salads, or toppings for desserts. There are many ways to consume fruits. You can also experiment with different fruit combinations to make salads and bowls.
Here are some tips on how to eat fruits the right way.
Wash Fruits Thoroughly
Before eating any fruit, it is essential to wash it thoroughly to remove any dirt, bacteria, or pesticides that may be present on the skin. Use clean water and a vegetable brush to scrub the surface of the fruit gently.
Eat Fruits with the Skin On
Most fruits have a thin outer layer that is rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. Eating fruits with the skin on them can help you get the maximum health benefits. However, some fruits like oranges, bananas, and kiwis have a tough outer layer that is difficult to digest. In such cases, peeling off the skin before eating is better.
Cut Fruits into Bite-sized Pieces
Cutting fruits into bite-sized pieces makes them easier to eat and digest. This also makes them more convenient to carry and snack on. You can cut the fruit into cubes, slices, or wedges, depending on your preference.
Eat Fruits at the Right Time
Fruits are best eaten on an empty stomach, either as a snack or as a part of your breakfast. Eating fruits after a meal can lead to bloating and digestive discomfort. Also, avoid eating fruits late at night, which can cause indigestion and disturb sleep.
Don’t Overdo It
While fruits are packed with essential nutrients, it is important not to overdo them. Eating too many fruits can lead to an excessive intake of sugar and calories, which can have adverse health effects. Aim to eat two to three servings of fruits daily for maximum benefits without going overboard.
Now, go ahead and incorporate fruits into your diet in creative ways, and your body will thank you for it!
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