Imported Alco-Bev prices to Shoot up from April 1, 2023 in Uttar Pradesh

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February 1, 2023

The introduction of the new excise policy would result in a 10% price hike for imported alcoholic beverages and beer in Uttar Pradesh starting on April 1, according to an official statement released on Sunday. The Uttar Pradesh Cabinet approved the new excise policy for 2023–2024 on Saturday.

According to the statement, license fees for foreign alcoholic drinks, beer, stores that sell cannabis, and model shops have gone up by 10%.

In the new excise policy, the government has also raised the cost of operating the cafeteria facilities at model shops from the previous Rs 2 lakh to Rs 3 lakh.

“The government has also raised the licensing cost and security for bonded warehouse licenses (BWFL-2A, 2B, and 2C) of foreign beer, wine, and liquor under the new policy.” The master warehouse’s registration and renewal costs have also gone up.

According to Devesh Jaiswal, UP Liquor Sellers’ Welfare Association, “The increase in licenses and that of operating canteen facilities coupled with warehouse licenses will eventually lead to a rise in liquor prices.”

He continued, “It will be too early to speculate on how much the prices will rise.”

The minimum guarantee quota (MGQ) for liquor made in the country has also gone up by 10% because of the new policy. By implementing it, the country’s liquor retailers would have to buy 64.15 crore bulk litres of alcohol with a volume alcohol content (ABV) intensity of 36% rather than 58.32 crore bulk litres in 2022–2023.

“Despite pressure from the alcohol lobby, the government has not changed the timings of sales from the current 10 AM to 10 PM, to 11 PM.”

However, the government has added a rule that lets “special events” extend the sale period. “On special occasions, the time of sale could be extended with the government’s permission,” says the new excise policy. There is still no definition for these “unique occasions.

FMCGs betting big on Millets; Products range expanding quickly

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February 1, 2023

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FMCG companies, such as Britannia, Hindustan Unilever, ITC, Tata Soulfull, and Nestle, are investing heavily in value-added millet products, following the global trend towards these “Nutri-cereals” and the support of domestic policies.

As the United Nations General Assembly marks 2023 as the International Year of Millets, these domestic companies are using this opportunity to create new millet-based food products for children and infants, as well as snacks such as ragi chips and cookies for both sweet and savoury options.

The FMCG top guns are promoting the use of millets like jowar, bajra, and ragi by introducing a range of products including muesli, granola, upma, poha, noodles, and dosa mixes both domestically and for export markets.

Britannia has recently introduced ragi cookies and five-grain digestive biscuits under its NutriChoice brand. Meanwhile, Nestle India has a ragi-based version of its baby food brand, Ceregrow.

ITC will partner with 20 farmer-producer organizations to promote the supply of nutri-cereals through its Meta Market for Advanced Agricultural Services (MAARS) app. This will provide farmers with comprehensive solutions for the millets value chain.

Hindustan Unilever is rumoured to be launching a range of millet-based products under the GlaxoSmithKline brand.

True Elements, a company primarily focused on millet-based ready-to-eat and ready-to-cook breakfast and snack products were recently acquired by Marico. The company has a product range that is 65% based on millet and offers a variety of products such as muesli, granola, upma, poha, dosa mix, and khichri.

True Elements sources ragi and jowar through contract farming in Maharashtra and Karnataka, while ITC obtains nutri-cereals like sorghum, pearl millet, and ragi from farmers in Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Karnataka.

In 2018, millets were rebranded as “nutri-cereals” and the government designated the year as the National Year of Millets intending to increase production and consumption.

Millets are primarily grown during the kharif season in rainfed areas as they require less water and fewer agricultural inputs compared to rice and wheat. The main millet-producing states are Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, and Odisha.

Methi is not Indian! 5 Things you should about the Desi Herb

World Cuisine

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February 1, 2023

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If you’re an Indian, you’ve probably heard of methi, right? It’s one of the most commonly consumed herbs in the country, and for good reason. The leaves of this versatile plant are used for both culinary and medicinal purposes – you can pickle it, and use it to make chutneys, masalas, curries, and sauces. Basically, there’s so much you can do with methi!

The first mention of methi in India was in Sanskrit literature from 800-350 BC. And, get this, it was already a big deal in ancient Egypt, used in embalming practices because of its bitter taste. But while it may have been forgotten in the West, it’s still a popular herb in India, used in various dishes to add flavour and aroma.

Methi is a staple in Indian homes, and for good reason. It’s got culinary, medicinal, cultural, and versatile properties that make it a must-have in any kitchen. It’s known for improving digestion and controlling blood sugar, and it’s also considered a symbol of prosperity and good luck in Indian culture. Fresh, dried, or powdered, methi is versatile and adds a unique taste to any dish.

Interestingly, the Jewish community in Calcutta still prepares a hilbeh-like paste from methi, which has links to Yemen through Aden. There are also traces of it in Hyderabadi food, with links to Yemen through the migrants who came to Nizam’s court. And the Parsis who emigrated from Iran brought their own uses for methi, seasoning dhansak with it.

And here are 5 quick things you should know about methi:

The fenugreek plant grows wild in many parts of the Indian subcontinent, particularly in the southwest, west, and northwest regions.
While it’s commonly associated with Indian cuisine, methi is also widely used in African, Chinese, Sri Lankan, and Nepali cuisines, making it one of the most used herbs in the world.
The leaves are packed with vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and antioxidants, making it great for skin and hair health too.
It’s got alkaloids with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making it a great herb for treating various ailments.
Methi leaves are loaded with bioactive compounds that are vital for good health.

As you now know these 5 things about Methi, Quickly log on to our recipes section to find healthy, delicious and lip-smacking recipes using Methi.

Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach launches Indian Speciality Restaurant Zaffran

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February 1, 2023

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Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach launched its distinctive outlet, Zaffran, on the 27th of January 2023, to celebrate the vibrant Indian Cuisine.

Zaffran is a visually stunning and well-designed outlet with two private dining spaces offering views of the Bay of Bengal. The chandeliers add an extra touch of luxury to the dining experience.

The atmosphere of the restaurant is designed to be calming and inviting, with background music and live Indian performances, as well as an open kitchen that releases aromatic scents. The space has been redecorated with pink and blue colour schemes and features artwork and décor inspired by Mughal design, including antique armour, marble elephants, and intricate cutwork.

The menu at Zaffran offers a range of traditional Indian dishes, both vegetarian and non-vegetarian, including kebabs, biryani, and other signature dishes designed by Chef Jamaluddin Khan. For those with a sweet tooth, there are also options such as Kesari Ras Malai and Almond Rabri Cake.

The guests can relish the signature dishes such as Zaffrani Royal Platter, Zaffrani Murg Tikka, Gosht Seekh Kebab Zaikedaar, Andaz-e-Paneer, Zaffrani Moti Pulao, Galouti and Royal Biriyanis.

Ravi Rai, Cluster General Manager at Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach, Novotel Vijayawada and The Bheemili Resort, said, “We are here to meet guests’ specific requirements with an innovative and contemporary style. With our passion for the right food, we ensure to take care of the taste, service, and ambience. The traditional Indian flavours are sure to delight the taste buds of our esteemed guests.”

Experience your favourite Indian Cuisine at Zaffran, the speciality restaurant at Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach welcoming you with grand decor and luxurious hospitality.

NRAI recommends eateries to create their loyalty programs as Zomato Gold restarts

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February 1, 2023

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India’s Food delivery major Zomato has announced that its popular rewards program, Zomato Gold, will be back. The decision has gotten mixed reviews; some restaurants are thrilled about the chance to give loyal customers access to unique pricing and advantages, while others are concerned about the possible financial impact.

The National Restaurant Association of India (NRAI) has responded by recommending eateries think about creating loyalty programs that are independent of Zomato Gold and other third-party platforms. The NRAI says that independent loyalty systems can give restaurants more control over their prices and give customers more personalized experiences.

President of the NRAI Anurag Katriar said, “The return of Zomato Gold is a big chance for restaurants to connect with their customers and show appreciation for their loyalty.” But restaurants need to think about the pros and cons of joining a third-party rewards program and consider making their programs that fit their brand and values.

When they eat at restaurants that are part of Zomato Gold, which was started in 2017, members get special discounts and other perks. Millions of people have joined the program to save money and get other benefits, which shows the popularity of the program among its users. The initiative will be suspended in August 2020 as a result of some eateries having voiced concerns in previous years about the program’s financial implications.

Since then, Zomato has taken steps to allay these worries, including introducing a new pricing scheme and giving participating eateries more freedom. Many people in the restaurant business have praised the return of Zomato Gold because they see it as a good way to boost sales and keep customers coming back.

The NRAI’s recommendation that restaurants think about creating their loyalty programs is in line with a growing trend among companies wanting to control their client interactions and foster loyalty in the digital age. Independent loyalty programs are set to play a bigger part in helping businesses connect with their consumers and spur growth as the restaurant industry continues to shift and expand.

Try this Vegan Banana Pancakes recipe to excite your kids after school

Recipes & Meals

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February 1, 2023

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Veganism is a lifestyle choice that many are making today. Some call it the responsible way of leading a life !!! While the popularity of veganism has grown in recent years, many people have been following a vegan diet largely driven by a variety of factors, including concerns about animal welfare, environmental sustainability, and health.

Many kids are also adopting a vegan lifestyle. trends suggest that the influence of celebrities, choice of parents and for kids above 15, awareness about sustainability is one of the largest reasons to adopt a vegan diet.

With recent buzz and excitement around nutrition, many traditional yummy recipes have a vegan avatar !! one such recipe is the Vegan Banana pancake which is specially designed for children.

Vegan banana pancakes can be a nutritious and delicious option for children. They are made with wholesome ingredients like flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, non-dairy milk, ripe bananas, and vanilla extract, and can provide important nutrients such as fibre, protein, and vitamins. However, it is important to keep in mind that pancakes are still a treat and should not be the only food in a child’s diet. It is best to balance sweet treats with a variety of nutritious foods for a well-rounded diet.

While this treat is loved by all kids, parents need to be careful as some of the children may need to avoid them due to food allergies or sensitivities. For example:

Children with allergies to ingredients used in the pancakes, such as wheat or bananas.
Children with non-dairy milk intolerance.
Children with celiac disease or gluten intolerance, as traditional pancakes contain wheat flour. If your kids have any such allergies, it is best to consult with a paediatrician or a registered dietitian to determine what alternatives can fill in for vegan banana pancakes and are safe for children and make them smile.

Here is the recipe for delicious vegan banana pancakes:

Ingredients:

1 cup all-purpose flour
2 tsp sugar
2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1 ripe banana, mashed
1 cup non-dairy milk
1 tbsp vegetable oil
1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
In a separate bowl, mix the mashed banana, non-dairy milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, whisking until just combined.
Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and spoon about 1/4 cup of batter for each pancake.
Cook until bubbles form on the surface and then flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes until both sides are golden brown.
Serve with your favourite toppings, such as fresh fruit, syrup, or peanut butter. Enjoy!

This recipe provides a rich, cake-like texture while the sugar and vanilla extract add sweetness. This recipe is easy to follow and the result is a moist and flavorful cake that is always loved by Kids and Elders.

Budget 2023 LIVE: FM Nirmala Sitharaman to present Union Budget, F&B Industry keen on GST Input Tax Credit

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February 1, 2023

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NOTE: This is a LIVE Article and will be updated in accordance to Union Budget 2023 Address by FM Nirmala Sitharaman

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will unveil the Union Budget 2023 today (February 1, 2023), prior to the 2024 general elections. The budget is anticipated to provide many relief and benefits to the Food and Beverage Industry. The industry is keenly looking for the return of Input Tax Credit on GST and relaxation of regulations and licenses.

The Budget Session of the Parliament started on Tuesday and will end on February 13 for the first part. It will resume on March 12 for the second part of the session and conclude on April 6.

12:21 PM IST | Customs duty on Electric Kitchen Chimney – From 15% to 7.5%

12:21 PM IST | Govt to reduce customs duty on shrimp feed to promote exports

11:47 AM IST | A transition towards Natural Farmer

over next 3 yrs, we facilitate 1 crore farmers to adopt natural farming, Announces FM

11:30 AM IST | Agriculture Credit Expansion

The agriculture credit target expanded to Rs 20 lakh crore. Millets to be on further focus

11:28 AM IST | Agriculture stocks Up and Green Amid Budget 2023

Shares of Kaveri Seeds, Mangalam Seeds, and Bombay Burmah are trading in the green as FM Sitharaman proposes to increase agricultural credit to INR 20 lakh crore.

11:18 AM IST | Budget 2023 proposes Fund to support Tech-driven Agri Startups

Budget 2023 proposed to bring modern technologies to Indian farms. An agriculture accelerator fund to be set up to support agri-tech startups in rural areas.

11:04 AM IST | New scheme to supply free food grain. Expenditure of ₹2 lk cr: FM

10:55 AM IST | Union Cabinet Approves the Budget 2023

Union Cabinet has approved the Budget 2023; the meeting headed by PM Narendra Modi Parliament has now concluded. FM Nirmala Sitharaman will present the Budget shortly.

10:45 AM IST | FM Sitharaman to present Budget 2023. Speech at 11 AM

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will begin her Budget address in the Parliament house at 11 a.m., which marks the final comprehensive Budget of the Modi administration during its second tenure. Similar to the past two Union Budgets, the Union Budget 2023-24 will also be presented in a digital format without any physical paper.

Can cranberries assist with your Liver Health?

Health & Diet

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February 1, 2023

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Cranberry, One of nature’s superfoods is somewhat sweet yet noticeably tart. This name refers to the high level of antioxidants and other health-promoting qualities found in cranberries. More particularly, proanthocyanidins, a rare and powerful subclass of antioxidants found only in cranberries, are prized for their capacity to neutralize free radicals and boost the activity of other antioxidants.

Cranberries, which are native to the United States and Canada, are commonly picked by wet or dry methods between September and October. By flooding cranberry beds, beating the fruit off the vines, and then gathering the floating fruit, the more typical wet harvest is carried out. A picking machine is used to comb the vines for dry-picked fruit.

Cranberries can be used to add a twist of sweet and citrusy flavour to your desserts, salads, and beverages. They are incredibly versatile when experimenting with taste and texture in terms of culinary creations. However, did you know that these little berries were also excellent for the health of your liver?

Cranberries and other foods with high nutritional value have become more popular as a result of rising health consciousness and a trend toward healthy eating. It’s interesting to note that cranberries have health benefits like preventing blood clots and treating urinary tract infections.

The goodness of antioxidants and other nutrients is abundant in these little, sweet-tart berries. In reality, cranberries are rich in proanthocyanidins, a powerful class of antioxidants prized for their capacity to eliminate free radicals from the body.

Cranberries include vitamin C, which speeds up the creation of glutathione, a substance that functions essentially as an antioxidant. The liver requires this element for both stages of the detoxification process.

Drinking cranberry juice and eating cranberries are both liver-friendly practices. There are four reasons that cranberries support liver health:

1. Vitamin C: Ascorbic acid, also known as vitamin C, is abundant in cranberry juice. Bile is made thinner and less congested by vitamin C, which helps the liver process lipids more effectively. For those who have a lot of liver fat, this function is extremely helpful.

2. Glutathione: Vitamin C increases the body’s natural antioxidant glutathione. Glutathione is necessary for the liver during both phases of the detoxification process.

3. Chelation: Because cranberries’ antioxidants bond to harmful medications and metals, they make it easier for the liver to eliminate them. Proanthocyanidins have a strong iron-chelating activity.

4. Free Radical Protection: Full of potent antioxidants, cranberry juice helps protect the liver from free radicals by neutralizing these liver cell-damaging compounds.

Budget 2023: According to Economic Survey, Agritech Sector has 50% Annual Growth in PE Investments

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January 31, 2023

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The Indian government’s pre-budget Economic Survey reports a significant increase in private equity (PE) investments in the agritech sector over the past four years. With an annual growth rate of more than 50%, the sector has seen a surge in investment.

This growth is driven by several factors, including increasing demand for quality food, concerns about climate change and food security, and renewed investor interest in the emerging industry. The survey found that the yearly increase in private equity investments amounts to approximately INR 6,600 crore.

The survey also highlighted the existence of over 1,000 agritech startups in India that support farmers in improving their farming methods. These startups are playing an important role in driving innovation and growth in the sector.

The increasing investment in agritech startups is a positive sign for the future of the agriculture industry in India, and it is likely that this trend will continue as technology continues to advance and play a larger role in agriculture.

The Government of India, in the survey said, “This is slowly gaining acceptance with farmers… Crop yield prediction models using artificial intelligence and drones for monitoring soil and crop health have been initiated. Smart farming also enables crop diversification, which will help farmers reduce their dependence on monsoons for water.”

The agritech startups has raised 3 times the funding in 2022 compared to 2020. The sector also witnessed valuations shooting up and continued funding with unwavering investor interest. Thus, there seems to be no end to the party.

In addition, the report further stated that over 500 startups in India are focused on the millet value chain, coining along with the United Nations declaring 2023 as the International Year of Millets.

The Indian Institute of Millets Research has provided support to 250 of these startups through their incubation program, Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana – Remunerative Approaches for Agriculture and Allied Sectors Rejuvenation (RKVYRAFTAAR). This is a notable development as it highlights the government’s efforts to promote and support the growth of startups in the millet sector.

The focus on millets in India is a crucial step towards addressing food security concerns and promoting sustainable agriculture practices. The increased investment and support for startups in this sector will lead to continued growth and development in the future.

Budget 2023 Expectations of Indian Food & Beverage Industry: Top priority to reintroduce Input Tax Credit

Budget 2023

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SnackTeam

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January 31, 2023

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The food and beverage (F&B) industry in India is significant to India’s economy, contributing 3% to its GDP and providing livelihood to over 7.3 million people. This industry is expected to grow at 14.2 % (CAGR 2020-2024) and will continue to be the largest employing industry in the country with 9 Million people across existing and emerging regions.

as the sector has been severely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, The F&B sector is eagerly awaiting the Union Budget 2023 as the year which serves as a foundation for stupendous growth in the coming years. The industry is hoping for measures that can help revive the sector and provide relief to businesses that have been struggling to stay afloat.

Measures that can help the industry recover and rejoice:

The sector is hoping for relaxation in Section 115JB – Minimum Alternate Tax (MAT) with a waiver for two years from April 2023 to March 2025. This will help to reduce the tax burden on businesses operating in the F&B industry.
A reintroduction to the Input Tax Credit on GST is also helpful and expected for the industry. Currently, F&B is the only industry without any provision for Input Tax Credit.
The industry is yet to receive a covid relief package and has faced challenges due to high inflation and shortage of products, and reducing taxes for a period can provide much-needed support for these Food SMEs to bloom.
The industry also wishes to see measures that will aid the development of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). SMEs play a crucial role in the food industry, and the budget could help support their growth by providing access to financing and other forms of support. This would help these businesses become more stable and increase their competitiveness in the market.
Another key expectation is the extension of investment-linked benefits under Section 35 AD for brownfield hospitality projects to the ongoing capital expenditures (CAPEX) of hotels and resorts. This will provide a significant boost to high-quality brownfield CAPEX and capacity expansion, driving investment and employment within the sector.
The budget is also expected to modify the Leave Travel Allowance (LTA) rules, making it possible to include the amount spent on hotel stays as an LTA expense. Additionally, payments made by foreigners in rupees at hotels should be considered as foreign exchange earned for the Export Promotion Capital Goods (EPCG) scheme.
The 2023 Union Budget could also consider tax breaks and incentives for businesses in the F&B industry, such as reducing corporate tax rates, offering subsidies for modernising equipment, and easing compliance requirements. These measures would help small businesses to invest in growth and create new job opportunities.
Another important aspect that the F&B industry is hoping to see in the Budget 2023 is a reduction in food inflation. The government could address this issue by providing support for the agricultural sector and taking steps to improve the supply chain of food products.
The F&B industry also hopes to see an improvement in the regulatory environment, with a simplified and streamlined process for obtaining licenses and permits. This would not only make it easier for businesses to operate, but also encourage more entrepreneurs to enter the sector.

Overall, the F&B industry is hopeful that the 2023 Union Budget and the Indian Government will take steps to support and promote the important sector of the economy. As a result, it helps create more jobs, increases economic growth, and boosts the overall competitiveness of the country.

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