Friday, March 7, 2025
Home Blog Page 1222

Latest developments in Indian F&B markets: A look into recently launched D2C products

0
d2c

One of the most dynamic and quickly changing industries in the world is the food and beverage sector. The market is constantly looking for new and inventive ways to improve the taste and health of its products in response to shifting consumer preferences and trends. 

We have compiled a list of new products in the D2C sector but first, we’ll a nuanced look at how the food and beverage (F&B) sector is embracing innovation to meet consumers’ evolving tastes and health concerns. 

Current trends in the F&B domain:

The diet-conscious wave: 

The increasing focus on health and well-being has been one of the biggest shifts in the F&B sector. F&B businesses are adjusting to this trend by providing healthier options as consumers become more aware of the contents and nutritional content of the items they consume. For instance, many businesses are increasingly enhancing the flavor and health advantages of their products with natural ingredients like herbs and spices. 

A trend towards plant-based products has also occurred, with businesses introducing vegan and vegetarian options to meet the demands of customers seeking healthier and more environmentally friendly solutions.

The new conversation starter: Is this organic? 

The growing demand for organic food is another trend at the heart of the food and beverage industry’s problems. The market for organic foods has expanded as a result of the drastic decrease in processed food consumption. Because of their high nutritional value, organic foods are becoming more popular.

With a greater emphasis on health and wellness, alongside vegan, sustainable, and cruelty-free product range is on the rise. What is not organic is simply deemed unhealthy and bad for the environment, and organizations are tapping strongly into this. 

Innovative preparation methods:

Utilizing fresh and inventive cooking methods is a trend that has grown in popularity, especially among younger audiences.  In the F&B industry, for instance, the “baked or popped” approach, which includes baking food at low, controlled temperatures, has grown in popularity. This has grown in popularity since companies are avoiding labels like “fried food” because they are now seen as boring and unhealthy.

Food can now be prepared using new techniques that preserve flavor and nutrients, giving consumers a better choice. In order to provide more sustainable and healthy options, F&B companies are also experimenting with new ingredients, such as proteins derived from insects.

Growing hunger for FoodTech

The use of technology is another way the F&B industry is embracing innovation. Companies are utilizing technology to improve their supply chain and distribution processes, allowing consumers to more easily access and purchase their products. 

Furthermore, food and beverage companies are utilizing technology to develop new and innovative products, such as 3D-printed food and personalized nutrition plans. Furthermore, the use of augmented reality and virtual reality is becoming more common in the industry, allowing consumers to interact with food in novel and exciting ways.

Here are some of the latest innovations in the D2C sector for Food and beverage lovers: 

Snickers India

Snickers, the caramel-oozing chocolate bar brand, is beloved by almost everyone. Consider the chocolate bar to taste like Kesar Pista. Yes, you heard us right, the famous Indian dessert flavor has taken over this international chocolate bar. 

This entails how brands are accommodating cultural aspects of different countries to capture more taste buds and of course, customer base. Thus, international brands are more open than ever with both their products and cultural undertones, especially in foreign markets. 

Click here to buy this desi fusion chocolate 

Kurkure

Kurkure’s flavor lineup has expanded with the addition of a new ‘Chatpata Cheese’ flavor. The brand combined the classic ‘Masala’ flavor with the globally popular ‘Cheddar Jalapeno’ flavor. The new flavor, with the communication theme “desi pe videsi ka chatpatapan,” aims to localize the global cheese snack craze.

If international brands are going desi, then in this case it is safe to say that Indian brands are no backbenchers. India’s most loved snack brand has launched its Mexican-inspired flavors, demonstrating that Indians love global flavors and experiences. 

 Click here to buy this cheesy affair 

Parle G

The world’s fasting-selling cookies a.k.a Parle G and jumped on the innovation wagon. For many people, a cup of hot tea and a Parle G biscuit is a go-to combination. As a result, the biscuit and snack company launched two new flavors: Parle G Oats and Berries biscuits and Kismi Cinnamon biscuits. The brand follows the trend of entering the healthy foods segment while also appealing to tea enthusiasts.

Who would imagine a solid billion-dollar brand like Parle G diving into different flavors? Mainly because it has maintained a single-product flavor for decades in a row. Needless to say, companies are becoming active to cater to a more calorie-conscious audience. Customers are becoming more aware of the dangers of artificial sweeteners and other additional preservatives as a result of this realization.

Click here to buy the product 

Bira 91 

Bira 91 India’s beverage startup superhero has launched some new and vibrant flavors. Bollywood IPA (West Coast style), Kokum Sour, Brown Ale, and Mango Lassi are four new limited edition beers from the brand known for their dynamic flavors. The drinks were created using indigenous ingredients to highlight India’s raw creativity, which is fueled by its humble artists.

The Bollywood IPA can is loud, flavorful, and vibrant with a tropical twist, inspired by California-born West Coast IPAs. Kokum Sour complements the Indian summer by combining a traditional Konkan coast ingredient with the Indian palate’s affinity for sour flavors and the best sour beers in the world.

The above innovations in Indian D2C markets demonstrate that the F&B industry is constantly evolving and embracing innovation to meet consumers’ changing tastes and health concerns. The direct-to-consumer industry is poised for even more exciting developments in the future, and it will be interesting to see how it continues to innovate and adapt to the changing landscape while keeping consumer needs at the forefront.

Advertisement

This Pani-Puri street vendor from Gujarat is viral for his resemblance to PM Modi

0
Pm Modi Look A Like Sells Pani Puri

The internet has a way of connecting people from all over the world, and sometimes, it even helps track down those who bear a striking resemblance to famous figures. One such figure is none other than the current Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi. A street vendor in Gujarat, India, has recently caught the attention of the public due to his striking resemblance to Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Recently, a food blogger from Vadodara shared a video that quickly went viral online. The video featured a chaat vendor by the name of Anil Bhai Khattar, who, to the surprise of many, looked almost identical to the Prime Minister. With his white hair, trimmed beard, and attire consisting of a kurta-churidar and Nehru jacket, the vendor had many social media users doing a double-take.

The video starts with Khattar introducing himself as a chaat vendor and going on to say, “Woh chai wale thhe, mein paani puri wala hoon,” (he was a tea vendor, but I sell paani puri).

The caption of the viral Instagram post read, “Modiji’s Look-a-like selling Pani Puri, is it? Tulsi Pani Puri, Shop no 7, Bhudevi complex, near Brown Burger, Mota Bazaar, Vallabh Vidyanagar, Anand, Gujarat 388120.”

According to the vendor, people have referred to him as “Modi” because of his side profile and overall personality, which closely resembles that of the Prime Minister. He revealed that he has been selling chaat since the age of 15 and offers a variety of items such as paani puri, bhel, dahi puri, sev puri, and basket chat.

The video quickly gained traction online and has since received over 170k likes, 884 comments, and three million views. Netizens were left amused by the vendor’s striking resemblance to the Prime Minister, with many making funny remarks in the comment section. One user wrote, “Voice 70% match. Most probably he will be our next PM.”

In conclusion, while the vendor may not be the actual Prime Minister, his striking similarity has certainly left a lasting impression on those who have seen the video.

Advertisement

Westin Gurgaon New Delhi introduces Rooftop Lounge and Bar; launches Sunset Story

0
Sunset Story Westin Gurgaon New Delhi

The Westin Gurgaon New Delhi has launched Sunset Story, a rooftop lounge and bar to provide a luxurious experience unlike any other in Delhi NCR.

Sunset Story boasts of a unique food and beverage philosophy, offering a range of world-renowned global cuisines and handcrafted cocktails crafted by the hotel’s expert in-house mixologist. The design of the lounge has taken inspiration from the colours of a sunset, and the triangular bar at the centre of the space symbolizes the merging of the sky, clouds, and the changing colours of nature.

The ambience of Sunset Story is ethereal, with light rings and the hotel’s facade blending to create a surreal atmosphere. The lounge features semi-techno and lounge-style music with a high-energy vibe, and the innovative food and beverage options, along with the stylish atmosphere, make it a must-visit destination for the discerning

Rahul Puri, Cluster General Manager said, “We at The Westin Gurgaon, New Delhi constantly endeavour to imbibe evolving trends in the hospitality food and beverage segment, along with curating engaging experiences and signature gourmet memories for our guests. With our new rooftop lounge and bar, we aim to infuse a fresh perspective to the culinary landscape of the hotel and keep striving towards driving food and beverage innovation and creativity, by pushing the bar higher.”

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing evening out or a place to socialize and enjoy a night with friends, Sunset Story promises to deliver an unforgettable experience.

Advertisement

ChargeUp Partners Zomato to empower food deliveries using Electric Mobility

0
zomato Delivery

Chargeup, A startup building FineTech platform in the electric vehicle (EV) industry, has joined forces with food delivery giant Zomato to offer the delivery partners, a seamless access to financing and leasing options for electric vehicles. The goal of this collaboration is to make the transition to EVs as smooth as possible for the delivery partners.

The company says the fact that last-mile food delivery personnel cover several kilometres a day, the emissions from their scooters and bikes add to the mobility footprint in urban areas significantly. This is where the partnership aims to bring about a transformation.

With Chargeup rapidly expanding its battery-swapping station network to include Tier-I and Tier-II cities, this new partnership is poised to reach even more Zomato delivery partners in the future. The company notes that the switch to EVs, coupled with access to the vast network of battery-swapping stations, will help drivers maximize their uptime and earn more, while also reducing emissions.

Varun Goenka, Co-founder & CEO of Chargeup, said, “As a climate-tech company dedicated to creating a clean mobility ecosystem in India, Chargeup is offering appealing and simple financing and leasing support to Zomato delivery partners who are ready to switch to EVs. Not only will their carbon footprint decrease but the delivery partners will also be able to lock in their costs, and increase their monthly earnings. We aim to make their lives simpler and ensure greater productivity. Chargeup has made significant efforts to transform the lives of thousands of e-rickshaw drivers in Delhi-NCR, doubling their incomes. As a step forward, our EVs will enable Zomato delivery partners to make more deliveries without worrying about the rise of fuel prices or a drop in their income levels.”

Mohit Sardana, Chief Operating Officer — Food Delivery at Zomato, said, “Through our partnership with Chargeup, our delivery partners will have access to a vast network of battery-swapping stations, ensuring 100% uptime and reducing operational costs for our delivery partners. This not only supports our sustainability goals but also contributes to our ongoing efforts to improve the lives of our delivery partners.”

Advertisement

AIIMS to serve a range of healthy and nutritious food in its Cafeteria

0
AIIMS

The All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) has taken a bold step in promoting healthy eating habits among its staff and students. In a recent communication sent on Feb 8, 2023, to the chairman of the Cafeteria Management Committee, AIIMS has directed the inclusion of nutritious food options in its cafeteria and hostel mess.

AIIMS Director M Srinivas noted that the existing menu in the institute’s cafeteria and hostel mess was limited and consisted mainly of unhealthy food items like samosas, kachoris, and bread pakoras.

The institute has decided to add a range of healthy options to its food menu, including boiled eggs, milk, sprouts, boiled chana, fruit salad, veg salad, and fresh uncut fruits and juices. Additionally, microwavable ready-to-eat meals like upma and poha will also be available, with rates fixed accordingly.

The new food menu will be implemented within seven days from the issuance of the letter and will be available in all cafeterias, including the surgical block and MCH block.

Explaining the reason behind taking the decision, the communication issued by the AIIMS read: “The faculty, resident doctors, nursing officers and other staff members working at AIIMS, New Delhi are involved in patient care and require healthy food to build up and maintain their immunity.”

This decision by AIIMS highlights the importance of institutions providing healthy food options to support the health and well-being of its staff and students. It is a step in the right direction towards promoting balanced diets and reducing the consumption of unhealthy, high-fat foods. The move has been widely praised by the health and wellness community, who hope that other institutions will follow in AIIMS’ footsteps.

Advertisement

9 everyday foods that will help you with digestion

0

Did you know that the health of your gut could actually be a window into the rest of your health? The digestive system breaks food down into nutrients and energy that the body can use. Some types of food, including vegetables and yogurt, can help this process of digestion. During seasonal changes, our bodies can be affected by changes in temperature, diet, and stress levels, which can result in digestive discomfort. 

 Add these 9 foods to your diet for healthy digestion:

Ginger: 

Ginger has been used for centuries to treat digestive issues due to its anti-inflammatory properties. It helps to reduce bloating, gas, and cramps and can even alleviate nausea. You can add ginger to your diet by grating it into a tea, juice or smoothie, or adding it to your meals as a spice.

Fiber-rich foods:

 Fiber is an essential part of a healthy diet as it helps regulate digestion and prevents constipation. Fiber-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes are also important sources of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Aim to include a variety of fiber-rich foods in your diet, and be sure to drink plenty of water to help your body absorb the fiber.

Probiotic-rich foods: 

Probiotics are good bacteria that help to maintain a healthy gut flora. They can improve digestion, boost your immune system, and reduce inflammation. Foods like yogurt, kefir, kimchi, and sauerkraut are rich in probiotics. You can also take probiotic supplements, but it is always best to get your probiotics from food sources.

Papaya:

Papaya contains an enzyme called papain, which helps break down proteins, making it easier for your body to digest. It is also a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Eat papaya as a snack or add it to your smoothies and salads for an extra digestive boost.

Fennel: 

Fennel has antispasmodic properties and has been used to relieve digestive problems like bloating, gas, and cramps. Fennel seeds can be chewed after a meal to help with digestion, or you can add fennel to your meals as a spice or include it in soups and stews.

Leafy greens: 

Leafy greens like spinach, kale, and collard greens are rich in fiber and vitamins, making them great for digestive health. They also contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that can help reduce inflammation in the gut. Try adding a serving of leafy greens to your meals each day, or incorporate them into a smoothie or salad.

Peppermint: 

Peppermint is known for its antispasmodic properties and has been shown to reduce symptoms of digestive discomfort, including gas and bloating. You can drink peppermint tea, add fresh peppermint leaves to your water, or chew on peppermint gum after a meal to help with digestion.

Seasonal changes can impact our digestive health. What you eat or don’t can play a big role in your digestion.By including a variety of the above suggested foods in your diet, you can support your digestive system and keep it functioning optimally during seasonal transitions.

Advertisement

Is Coffee Creamer Bad for You?

0

Nothing gets you started like that perfect cup of creme coffee !!! With this new emerging awareness and exposure about experiments with coffee,  lead through the boom in content, and easy availability of brands, has been a key  reason behind the surge in the growth of many coffee aficionados who indulge in a  freshly done hot pour. While there is a surge in the growth of gentry who appreciate their pour over, the numbers are also rising for one who love their coffee with cremers and other such additives to take that bitterness away and make the taste more palatable.    

Off late there has been a debate around the usage of creamers in coffee !! While many are sceptical of its effects on health despite the fact that it has a creamy, pleasant taste, others are keen to investigate the health benefits of a drink you enjoy almost every day. In this blog, we’ll try and assimilate some of the pros and cons of coffee creamer for your health as well as some healthier alternatives to keep the coffee love flowing.

What is a creamer, though?

A liquid or powder called coffee creamer is added to coffee to give it a creamy, sweet flavor. Cream, sugar, and flavorings are commonly the ingredients used to make coffee creamer. To aid in the creamer’s ability to blend with coffee, some coffee creamers additionally include emulsifiers and stabilizers.

It’s creamy, but is it good enough?

Let’s now discuss if coffee creamer is healthy or not. Coffee creamer is generally known to be high in sugar and bad fats, which can result in weight gain and a higher risk of heart disease. Additionally, a lot of coffee creamers contain artificial sweeteners, colors, and tastes that may be harmful to your health.

The addition of coffee creamer to your coffee does have certain advantages, though. For instance, it gives you a quick and simple way to flavor and sweeten your coffee, making it a practical choice for people who are often on the go. Additionally, coffee creamer can give the coffee a creamy texture that improves the taste.

Red Flags ahead:

Now, let’s take a closer look at some of the health disadvantages of coffee creamer. 

  • Coffee creamer’s high sugar and harmful fat content can cause weight gain, which can result in obesity, heart disease, and other health issues.
  • Numerous coffee creamers also contain artificial flavors, colors, and sweeteners, which have been connected to health issues like headaches, migraines, and digestive difficulties.
  • Preservatives, which are commonly included in coffee creamers, can be damaging to your health. These preservatives may trigger allergic reactions, digestive issues, and even the onset of some diseases.

Alternatives? 

So, what are the healthier alternatives to coffee creamer? If you’re looking to improve your health and reduce the negative effects of coffee creamer, here are some healthier options:

Almond milk: Due to its low fat and calorie content as well as its high calcium, vitamin D, and antioxidant content, almond milk is a fantastic substitute for coffee creamer.

Coconut milk is a delightful and creamy substitute for coffee creamer. It is minimal in calories and sugar and a rich source of antioxidants and healthy fats.

Oat milk: Due to its low calorie, sugar, and fat content, oat milk is a healthy substitute for coffee creamer. It also contains plenty of fiber, protein, and antioxidants.

Honey: Honey is an excellent substitute for coffee creamer because it is a natural sweetener. It is a healthy choice for individuals who want to cut back on their intake of sugar because it is low in calories and high in antioxidants.

Black Coffee: One of the best creamer substitutes is black coffee. It has been proven scientifically to be excellent for heart health and weight loss. It maintains your energy levels without the harmful additives of creamer.

Sweet endings…

The discussion above shows that coffee creamer is not always a healthy choice because of its clear impact on our health. However, there are healthier options that can still deliver a creamy, sweet flavor while also having advantages for your health. You can enhance your health and lower your risk of developing health issues by switching to a healthier substitute.

Advertisement

Rajasthan introduces Millet to Mid-Day Meal(MDM) Program to Hotels & Restaurants run by RTDC

0
Millets

The Rajasthan state government has announced millet to the mid-day meal (MDM) program to improve its nutritional value. Hotels and restaurants run by RTDC are also likely to include dishes prepared from millet in their menus to promote the grain’s consumption.

As the largest producer of millet in India and with the United Nations declaring 2023 as the International Year of Millet, the state sees this as an opportunity to increase its promotion and consumption.

During a recent review meeting led by Chief Secretary Usha Sharma, various ways to promote millet in the diet were discussed. Rajasthan is third in jowar production and also cultivates millets like sawan, kangni, kodon, and kutki in its tribal areas in southern districts. The state has a favourable climate for growing jowar and bajra millets as they require less water and are less susceptible to pest outbreaks.

The Rajasthan Millets Mission was announced in the 2022-23 budget, and 8.32 lakh mini kits of millet seeds were distributed for free in the 2022 Kharif season. A Millets Centre of Excellence is being established in Jodhpur for INR 5 crore, and a provision of INR 40 crore has been made for the establishment of 100 primary processing units.

Millets have several nutritional and medicinal properties and protect against serious health conditions like malnutrition, obesity, heart disease, and diabetes. The grain is rich in protein, fibre, vitamins, and minerals.

To popularize millets in the state, a state-level seminar on the nutritional importance of millets and an agro-processing conclave will be organized soon.

This conclave will bring together millet producers, agricultural businessmen, startups, voluntary organizations, agricultural scientists, and officials to discuss a concrete strategy for promoting millet.

In addition, similar seminars will be organized at the district level, and lectures will also be held at schools and gram sabhas. The aim is to educate the public on the benefits of incorporating millet into their diets.

Advertisement

Imperfecto and Smaaash Partners to launch 24 Outlets as Imperfecto Canteens

0
Imperfecto

Imperfecto and Smaaash announce their partnership to launch a new chain of cafes called Imperfecto Canteen. This innovative collaboration promises to elevate the customer experience with a fusion of gourmet food, drinks, and entertainment.

The Imperfecto Canteen concept is a fast-food restaurant that offers fresh, healthy food in a stylish and welcoming environment. The menu showcases a blend of traditional Indian cuisine, international favourites, and local specialities, designed to cater to all dietary requirements and tastes. The team at Imperfecto Canteen is dedicated to providing their customers with high-quality, delicious food that they can enjoy with confidence.

The first Imperfecto Canteen is set to open its doors today, February 9, 2023, in Rajouri Garden, Delhi, with multiple additional outlets to follow in the next three months. The Imperfecto Canteen will be located within Smaaash’s Rajouri Garden venue and all other 24 outlets.

This unique partnership aims to revolutionize the way food and entertainment are combined, offering consumers a one-of-a-kind experience. The Imperfecto Canteen team has ambitious plans to open a total of 24 outlets within the next year, with seven outlets currently in the works for Delhi, Chandigarh, Noida, Gurugram, Jaipur, and Udaipur.

The ultimate goal of Imperfecto Canteen is to create a welcoming space where people of all ages can come together to share enjoyable moments with friends and loved ones. The cafe is designed to evoke a nostalgic feel, reminding us of the past while embracing the present. With this exciting new venture, Imperfecto and Smaaash hope to provide an unforgettable experience for customers.

Advertisement

30-day Challenge: Man loses weight by eating pizza 3-times a day

0

Have you ever heard of someone losing weight by eating pizza? It may sound too good to be true, but a personal trainer from Northern Ireland recently accomplished just that.

Ryan Mercer embarked on a daring 30-day challenge where he ate pizza three times a day, every day, and still managed to gain muscle instead of fat. This weight loss journey has caused a stir in the health and wellness community, as many people believe that pizza should be avoided at all costs if you’re trying to lose weight. But Mercer’s experiment proves that conventional wisdom may not always be right.

Mercer’s goal was to highlight the importance of calorie deficit and to show that it’s possible to achieve your weight loss goals without restricting your favourite foods. He explains that the key to his success was a balanced diet that included 7-10 portions of fruits and vegetables and plenty of protein.

Despite eating pizza three times a day, he still managed to stick to a daily calorie intake of 1,800 to 2,100 Monday to Friday and 2,700k calories on weekends. His daily protein intake was set at 140g per day, and he aimed to consume a minimum of seven portions of fruits and vegetables per day.

Speaking with Ladbible on his Weight-loss, Mercer said, “Pizza is one of my all-time favourite foods, so I enjoyed eating it all month, although I did ensure I had a large variety of different pizzas to give myself some variance. I had two pitta pizzas and one larger dough-based pizza per day, which equated to roughly 10 slices per day.”

While Mercer’s weight loss journey may sound tempting, it’s important to note that everyone’s body is different, and a diet that works for one person may not work for another. He stresses that it’s crucial to listen to your body and only follow a diet if it’s sustainable and feels good for you.

Advertisement