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Noida’s Karigari restaurant honors and recognises the contribution of karigars of Food Industry

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The restaurant Karigari, which is led by the renowned chef Harpal Singh Sokhi, has recently launched an initiative to recognize and honor the important role that karigars play in the food industry. Karigars, also known as artisans or craftsmen, are individuals who specialize in the art of cooking and food preparation, often with a focus on traditional methods and flavors.

On February 12, 2023, the Karigari restaurant hosted an event to celebrate the achievements of these skilled professionals. The event aimed to honor the hard work, dedication, and craftsmanship of karigars, while also providing a platform to uplift their day-to-day lives.

During the event, several karigars were chosen for special recognition and were awarded with accolades for their contributions to the food industry. Moreover, they were provided with support and assistance to improve their daily lives. This support ranged from financial assistance to mentorship and training, and aimed to empower them to overcome the challenges they face and enhance their skills and capabilities.

Manish Sharma of Karigar, said, “We recently hosted about 40-50 karigars at our restaurant. It was delightful for me to meet the underprivileged as I gained knowledge of the specifics of what takes place in their lives. The word Karigari when translated means workmanship or artistry which is an ode to all the karigars. It was a wonderful experience overall as I realised that most of us frequently complain about the little things in life, but we should take a lesson from them on how, despite having numerous weaknesses, they still know how to make the most of life.”

Yogesh Sharma, Director of Karigar, highlighted the importance of empowering the underprivileged by giving them a hand-up, rather than a handout. He emphasized that supporting people in need with genuine humility and respect can provide them with the confidence and self-esteem they need to take charge of their lives and overcome obstacles. This can have a transformative impact on their lives and communities, as they become better equipped to deal with the challenges of daily life.

The initiative launched by Karigari to recognize and uplift karigars is a commendable effort to honor the contributions of these skilled professionals and to empower them to succeed in their lives and careers.

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Uttarakhand Woman earning lakhs as she sells ‘Pahadi Salt’ across India

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Sashi Bahuguna Raturi’s Namakwali is a brand that aims to preserve and showcase the traditional food and culture of Uttarakhand, a state known for its unique cuisine and culinary practices. Sashi’s love for the local cuisine and her desire to promote it to a wider audience led her to start Namakwali, with the intention of bringing the region’s age-old recipes to people across the country and beyond.

One of the most iconic products offered by Namakwali is pisyu loon, a type of Himalayan salt infused with various herbs and spices. The salt is made using traditional grinding slabs called sil-batta, which have been used for generations in the region. The process of making pisyu loon involves grinding together rock salt, fresh herbs, and spices, which are then left to dry and mature, resulting in a unique and flavourful salt.

Namakwali’s pisyu loon salt comes in various flavours such as ginger, garlic, hemp, and more. Each flavour has a distinct taste and aroma, making them ideal for adding flavour to a wide range of dishes, from simple lentil soups to complex meat curries.

Aside from its taste and versatility, pisyu loon is also considered a survival food in Uttarakhand. During the winter months when fresh vegetables are scarce, people rely on flavoured salt to add flavour to their meals and supplement their diets with essential minerals and nutrients.

Namakwali’s success has also helped empower women in the region. Sashi employs 10-11 women who are responsible for producing the salt, and they have been able to earn a decent income by working from home. These women handpick the ingredients from the foothills, grind the salt in their traditional sil-battas while singing traditional songs and enjoying each other’s company, and then package and ship the salt to customers across the country.

Namakwali’s flavoured salts have become increasingly popular in recent years, with customers from Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and other cities regularly ordering the products. The brand’s garlic-flavoured salt and authentic mix-flavoured salt are among the bestsellers, with customers praising the unique taste and aroma of the products.

Namakwali’s efforts to preserve the food and culture of Uttarakhand while empowering women in the region have been truly admirable. With their range of delicious and unique flavoured salts, Namakwali is playing an important role in promoting and preserving the culinary traditions of the region, and their success is a testament to the value of preserving traditional food practices in a rapidly changing world.

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Madhya Pradesh introduces Liquor Policy; Liquor shops to only sell, Consumption won’t be allowed in stores

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The Madhya Pradesh cabinet’s decision to close all bar shops and ‘Ahatas’ in the state came after a series of protests by senior BJP leader Uma Bharti. Bharti has been an outspoken critic of liquor consumption and has been advocating for a “controlled liquor policy” in the state. She has argued that the sale of alcohol should not be used as a means to generate revenue for the government, but rather, it should be regulated in a way that promotes responsible drinking.

As part of the new policy, liquor shops will only be permitted to sell alcohol within the confines of the shop itself. Ahatas, which are areas attached to liquor shops where customers can drink on the premises, will be closed. This move is designed to prevent public drinking and promote responsible consumption of alcohol.

In addition to these measures, the state government has also decided to increase the distance between liquor shops and sensitive locations such as educational institutions, girls’ hostels, and religious places. This distance will be increased from 50 meters to 100 meters, which is expected to help reduce the visibility of liquor shops and prevent them from influencing vulnerable populations.

State Home Minister Narottam Mishra said”All ahatas and shop bars are being shut in the state. From hereon, liquor will be sold at the shops and places of drinking will not be allowed,”

Moreover, the state government is also planning to make the laws related to drunk driving more stringent. This move is aimed at curbing the number of road accidents caused by drunk drivers and promoting road safety.

Uma Bharti’s campaign against liquor consumption has been gaining momentum over the past few years. As part of her “madhushala mein gaushala” program, she has been encouraging people to drink milk instead of alcohol. She has also been staging protests against liquor shops, including tying cows in front of them and throwing dung at them. Through these efforts, Bharti hopes to raise awareness about the dangers of alcohol consumption and promote a healthier, more responsible lifestyle.

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Nestle India Profits rise by 65.5% during Q4 2022

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nestle
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The media statement highlights the company’s strong performance in terms of growth and value. Narayanan, the spokesperson for the company, attributes the success to sustained volume and mix growth. This refers to the increase in sales volume and the balance between different product categories or product mixes. The company’s focus on premiumization is identified as a key growth engine that will continue to drive future growth.

Suresh Narayanan, Chairman and Managing Director of Nestle India, said, “2022 was an extraordinary year, where adversities were aplenty, where the efforts of the Nestle team and all our partners and stakeholders were stretched and where every new day brought a fresh challenge.”

In 2022, the company experienced significant growth with total sales increasing by 14.5%, and domestic sales growing by 14.8%. The success was broad-based, with growth achieved across all product categories. The acquisition of the Purina Petcare business and the introduction of Gerber cereals for toddlers are examples of the company’s continued focus on meeting the nutritional needs of its customers. The company’s commitment to producing these cereals in India further demonstrates its commitment to the local market.

The company’s e-commerce performance remained robust, with a continued focus on quick commerce and click & mortar strategies. Quick commerce refers to the fast delivery of products to customers, while click & mortar refers to a blend of online and offline retail strategies. The company’s Out-of-Home (OOH) business, which refers to sales made outside of the home, such as in restaurants or vending machines, made a strong comeback in 2022. The business was able to recover its pre-COVID base and deliver strong growth through the revamping of its geography, channel, and sales priority.

The company’s strong performance in 2022 and continued focus on meeting customer needs, premiumization, and e-commerce strategies suggest that the company is well-positioned for future growth and success.

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6 Foods that help you fight acne better

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Acne is one of the most stubborn skin conditions, they always leave a mark of its presence and pop up unexpectedly before important events. While they appear on the outer layer of the skin, the root cause of most acne can be directed towards one’s eating and lifestyle habits.

While there are various treatments and medications available to help manage acne, it can be frustrating to find the right solution that works for you. However, one effective way to manage acne is by incorporating certain foods into your diet.

Studies have shown that some foods can help fight acne by reducing inflammation, regulating hormones, and promoting healthy skin. By including these foods in your diet, you may be able to reduce the frequency and severity of acne breakouts, improve your skin health, and feel more confident in your own skin.

Today, we will explore some of the foods that have been scientifically proven to help manage acne and how they can benefit your skin.

Leafy Greens

Leafy greens, such as spinach, kale, and collard greens, are packed with nutrients that can help fight acne. These vegetables are rich in vitamins A and C, which help to regulate oil production in the skin and reduce inflammation. They are also a good source of antioxidants, which help to protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals.

In addition to their acne-fighting benefits, leafy greens are also great for overall health. They can help to lower blood pressure, reduce the risk of heart disease, and promote healthy digestion.

Fish

Fish is another food that can help fight acne. Fatty fish, such as salmon, mackerel, and sardines, are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for healthy skin. These fatty acids help to reduce inflammation in the body and can help to prevent the development of acne.

Fish is also a good source of protein, which is essential for healthy skin, hair, and nails. In addition, it is a good source of vitamin D, which helps to promote healthy bone growth and immune function.

Berries

Berries, such as blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries, are a great food for fighting acne. These fruits are packed with antioxidants, which help to protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals. They are also a good source of vitamin C, which helps to regulate oil production in the skin and reduce inflammation.

In addition to their acne-fighting benefits, berries are also great for overall health. They can help to improve cognitive function, boost heart health, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Nuts

Nuts, such as almonds, walnuts, and cashews, are great food for fighting acne. These nuts are a good source of vitamin E, which helps to promote healthy skin and reduce inflammation. They are also a good source of zinc, which can help to regulate hormone levels and reduce the development of acne.

In addition to their acne-fighting benefits, nuts are also great for overall health. They can help to lower cholesterol levels, reduce the risk of heart disease, and promote healthy weight management.

Green Tea

Green tea is another food that can help fight acne. This tea is packed with antioxidants, which help to protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals. It is also a good source of catechins, which can help to regulate oil production in the skin and reduce inflammation.

In addition to its acne-fighting benefits, green tea is also great for overall health. It can help to improve brain function, reduce the risk of chronic diseases, and promote healthy weight management.

Whole Grains

Whole grains, such as brown rice, quinoa, and oats, are great food for fighting acne. These grains are a good source of fiber, which can help to regulate hormone levels and reduce the development of acne. They are also a good source of vitamins B and E, which help to promote healthy skin and reduce inflammation.

With a conscious lifestyle and control of dietary habits, one can control the reflection of acne on their skin. Yet, there is no one pill that fixes all cases of acne. So try a bunch of combinations and be consistent with what suits your gut and skin the best.

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HUL to exit Atta and Salt Biz; To Sell Annapurna and Captain Cook Brands

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Hindustan Unilever

HUL, which stands for Hindustan Unilever Limited, is a major Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) company in India. The company was established in 1933 and has since grown to become the largest FMCG company in India. HUL offers a range of products, including personal care, home care, food and refreshments, and water purifiers.

In a recent announcement, HUL shared its plans to sell its non-core atta and salt business carried out under the ‘Annapurna’ and ‘Captain Cook’ brands to Singapore-based Uma Global Foods for Rs 60.4 crore. The sale agreement includes the transfer of trademarks, copyrights, and other intellectual properties associated with India and several other geographies.

The financial report, said, “The brands are being sold to Uma Global Foods Pte Ltd, and Uma Consumer Products Private Ltd. which are subsidiaries of Reactivate Brands International, a Singapore-headquartered company and an affiliate of CSAW Aqbator Pte Ltd (Singapore),”.

Sanjiv Mehta, CEO & Managing Director, Said, “Given our strategic priorities and portfolio choices, we believe it is in the business’s best interest to sell these brands to Reactivate Brands International, which is well-positioned to unlock their full potential.”

Ashok Vasudevan, Co-founder of Uma Global Foods, said, “We are confident of scaling them up and expanding globally, leveraging founders’ experience. These brands fit well with our mission to promote affordable wellness.”

HUL’s decision to sell the ‘Annapurna’ and ‘Captain Cook’ brands aligns with its strategy to focus on its core business and exit from non-core business operations. According to HUL, both brands had a turnover of Rs 127 crore in the financial year 2021-22, which is less than one per cent of HUL’s overall turnover.

On the other hand, Uma Global Foods is focused on acquiring and scaling up food brands to promote affordable wellness. With the acquisition of the ‘Annapurna’ and ‘Captain Cook’ brands, Uma Global Foods aims to strengthen its presence in the food industry.

HUL’s sale of its ‘Annapurna’ and ‘Captain Cook’ brands to Uma Global Foods is part of its strategy to exit from non-core business operations and focus on its core business. Uma Global Foods, on the other hand, aims to strengthen its presence in the food industry through the acquisition of these brands.

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Why Tier-2 & 3 cities are the best way to grow your food brand?

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food brand

India’s food industry has seen a spike thanks to seasoned competition and more options available to customers and food lovers. While fine dining and cafe culture was vastly associated with metropolitan cities, Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities have emerged as an untapped market for food brands in India. These cities, which include regions like Lucknow, Jaipur, and Bhopal, have seen significant growth in their economy and population in recent years, leading to a surge in demand for new and diverse food options.

If you are thinking to open a food business be it a shop, cafe, or high-end restaurant, chances are you missed smaller cities as your favorable location as owners are afraid that their business will work out in such pockets. I

f you are stuck in this decision-making, then let us make it easy for you. We have curated a list of well-research reasons to put small cities on the map to kick-start your business. 

Untapped markets

Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities are relatively underserved when it comes to food options. While urban centers like Mumbai and Delhi have a wide range of international and local food options, smaller cities often lack the same variety. This creates an opportunity for food brands to fill the gap and provide new and unique dining experiences for customers.

Lower Upfront costs 

The cost of operations is lower in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities compared to metropolitan areas. This means that food brands can set up shop with lower overhead costs, including rent and labor expenses. This also allows food brands to price their offerings competitively, making them more accessible to a wider range of customers.

Sense of community building

Small cities have a strong sense of community and loyalty towards local brands. This means that once a food brand has established itself in these regions, there is a high chance that customers will become repeat buyers and even recommend the brand to friends and family.

Testimonies that can inspire you: 

Several food brands have already recognized the potential of Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities and have successfully expanded into these regions. For example, Bikanervala, a popular sweets and snacks chain, started in Delhi and has now expanded to over 20 cities, including Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities like Jalandhar and Kota. Similarly, Chaayos, a tea chain, has opened outlets in cities like Chandigarh and Lucknow, bringing their unique and innovative tea offerings to new customers.

Other companies, like Jumboking, a Mumbai-based burger chain, have found success in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities by tailoring their offerings to local taste preferences. For example, Jumboking offers a Vada Pav burger, a twist to the popular street food from Mumbai, to cater to local tastes.

Food delivery platforms like Zomato and Swiggy have also recognized the potential of Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities and have started expanding their services in these regions. This has provided a platform for smaller food brands to reach a wider audience, without the need for a physical storefront.

Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities present a huge opportunity for food brands in India to expand their customer base and grow their brand. With the success of homegrown brands and diverse chains, it is clear that small cities can harbor great profits and possibilities of growth for your next food business. 

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120 Meals in 3 Easy Steps: Bengaluru Startup NOSH Robot’s will cook to your preferences

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The NOSH device developed by Euphotic Labs is an innovative solution to the problem of cooking food after a long day at work or when individuals are not in the mood to enter the kitchen. The concept of a machine that cooks food may sound unusual at first, but after years of tireless efforts, six prototypes, and multiple iterations, the NOSH machine promises to deliver consistent taste every time.

The device is designed to cook 120+ food items according to the user’s taste preferences and requirements, all in three easy steps. To operate the machine, the user must fill designated containers with the required ingredients and spices. The size of the machine is comparable to that of a microwave, making it easy to store in any kitchen.

The inspiration for creating this device came from the founders’ struggles with finding good food. Yatin Varachhia, co-founder of Euphotic Labs, found it difficult to find time to cook meals due to his busy professional life and commute. His predicament was echoed by his friends, many of whom also struggled to find authentic Indian food and resorted to eating unhealthy, packaged food or restaurant food that upset their stomachs.

Yatin, said, “I belong to Kantva, a small village in Gujarat, and moved to Bengaluru to study in 2008. I completed my post-graduation in science from the Indian Institute of Science and worked with multinational companies. But through all those years, I struggled to access good food and became tired of restaurants,” and added “While there is no person involved in the process, the time required for cooking remains the same. The machine follows the exact order as prescribed in the recipe and ensures the ingredients blend and cook uniformly.”

Yatin, said, “We aim to target customers in the USA, and we have identified four million Indians craving freshly cooked home meals at their convenience. There are consumers across Asia, the UK, Australia and other parts of the world. We are preparing for on-field trials in the USA parallel to establishing a production line,” 

After discussing the idea with his friends Pranav Raval, Amit Gupta, and Sudeep, the group decided to collaborate and develop a machine that would cook food and eliminate their struggles. The result of their hard work was the NOSH machine, which promises to deliver consistent, high-quality food every time.

The machine’s trial users were impressed with the quality of the food, and some even found it surprising that the food did not taste like it was cooked by a machine. The NOSH machine eliminates the possibility of human errors and does not require any supervision, making it a highly convenient appliance.

The NOSH device is an excellent example of how technology can make human life easier by addressing common struggles. This machine’s ability to cook a variety of meals to a consistent taste and quality is impressive and promises to revolutionize the food industry.

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Food Insecurity causing increased Cognitive decline in older adults, Finds a Study

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The issue of food insecurity among older adults is a significant public health concern. According to the USDA, in 2019, 9.7 million households with seniors experienced food insecurity, which means they lacked access to enough food for an active, healthy life. The COVID-19 pandemic has also worsened the problem, with many older adults facing difficulties in accessing food due to factors such as social isolation, mobility issues, and the closure of community meal sites.

Food insecurity can have a range of negative impacts on the health and well-being of older adults. Malnutrition, for example, can lead to a weakened immune system, muscle weakness, and an increased risk of falls and fractures. 

Depression is also a common consequence of food insecurity, with feelings of hopelessness and helplessness often accompanying the stress of not having enough to eat. Physical limitations resulting from malnutrition can further exacerbate the problem, leading to difficulties with activities of daily living and a decreased ability to live independently.

The SNAP program, which was formerly known as food stamps, provides assistance to eligible individuals to purchase food. In 2020, the program served approximately 42 million people in the United States.

SNAP benefits can help alleviate food insecurity and provide access to a more nutritious diet, which can have positive health impacts for older adults. However, not all eligible individuals participate in the program, and there is limited research on how participation in SNAP may affect cognitive decline in older adults.

“For an aging population, roughly four years of brain aging can be very significant,” SNAP explained. “These results really point to the importance of food security for people as they age and the value that SNAP can have in improving people’s cognitive health as they age. We need to make sure that people have access to — and encourage them to use — the SNAP program as they age.”

The study conducted by Muzi Na and her team is a valuable contribution to the field, as it sheds light on the potential role of SNAP in protecting against accelerated cognitive decline in older adults. The findings suggest that food sufficiency and SNAP participation may have a protective effect, potentially delaying the onset of cognitive decline in older adults. Further research is needed to better understand the relationship between food insecurity, SNAP, and cognitive health in older adults, and to develop interventions to address these issues.

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Marriott Bonvoy on Wheels Online Food Delivery now integrated with Club Marriott South Asia mobile app

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Marriott Bonvoy on Wheels (MBOW) is an online food delivery program from Marriott International, one of the world’s leading hospitality companies. MBOW has integrated with the Club Marriott South Asia app and website, which is Marriott’s dining membership program in the Asia Pacific region, to offer guests a range of dining options from over 80 hotels within South Asia.

The new service extension allows guests and members to order meals from award-winning restaurants, such as Adrift Kaya, Koishii, and Ukiyo, among others, through the Club Marriott South Asia app or website. In addition to real-time table reservations, customers can opt for easy takeaway or gift meals customized to their taste and preference. The app comes with Marriott’s food pairing recommendations and a user-friendly interface, making it easy to use.

Ranju Alex, area vice president – South Asia, Marriott International said, “At Marriott International, we constantly push innovations across the board to enhance guest experiences with our elevated offerings. Marriott Bonvoy on Wheels, our online food delivery programme has witnessed significant success since its inception. Integrating this service to the Club Marriott South Asia app widens and extends our diverse F&B portfolio to our guests, giving them the luxury of experiencing a wholesome luxe home dining experience with comfort and ease”.

Kriti Sanon, said, “As a brand, Marriott International has always stood out with its innovative food & beverage concepts. Marriott Bonvoy on Wheel’s food delivery platform is an extension of their culinary repertoire. I am very pleased to announce the integration of Marriott Bonvoy on Wheels into the Club Marriott South Asia app. In our fast-paced lives, this app is the perfect solution to all our food needs. User-friendly and customised to taste, it’s set to bring signature dining experiences to the comfort of our homes”.

Club Marriott members will receive ongoing benefits for the services provided, and guests can enjoy a 15% discount on the app experience by using the code MBOW15 for two weeks from January 27 to February 12, 2023. To announce the integration, leading Bollywood actress Kriti Sanon engaged with guests and food aficionados at a pop-up launch event in Mumbai where she self-ordered her all-time favorites, including Indonesian Nasi Goreng, Korean chicken burger, and a brioche bun with gochujang sauce.

MBOW has rolled out several specially curated signature menus comprising fine dining specialties alongside comfort food favorites, leveraging the strong network of Marriott hotels and marquee restaurants to give it a distinctive edge within the food delivery space. MBOW delivers across 30 cities from more than 80 restaurants in South Asia, ensuring strict safety and hygiene checks while preparing, packaging, and delivering meals within record time. The service is available across Marriott hotels in Mumbai, including The St. Regis Mumbai, JW Marriott Mumbai Juhu, JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar, The Westin Mumbai Garden City, The Westin Mumbai Powai Lake, and Courtyard by Marriott Mumbai International Airport.

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