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PepsiCo earnings beat expectations as per financial report Q4 2022

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Pepsi

PepsiCo, the multinational food and beverage company, has reported better than everyone’s expected quarterly earnings and revenue results. The higher prices of its snacks and drinks were the key contributors to the positive outcome, although the company’s food business worldwide saw a volume decline of 2% as a result of the price hikes, which affected consumer demand.

Despite the drop in demand, Pepsi intends to continue its “revenue management,” which usually involves raising prices, due to projections of persistent inflationary pressure in 2023. The company’s shares increased by more than 1% after the announcement.

In the fourth quarter, Pepsi reported a net income of $518 million, or 37 cents per share, which was down from $1.32 billion, or 95 cents per share, in the same quarter of the previous year.

The company attributed the decrease to the write-down of several of its brands, including SodaStream and Pioneer Foods, as a result of higher interest rates. Excluding the impairment charges and other items, Pepsi earned $1.67 per share. Net sales increased by 10.9% to $28 billion, and the company’s organic revenue grew by 14.6% during the quarter.

However, there was a decline in the demand for Pepsi products during the quarter. The volume of the company’s products fell by 7% at Quaker Foods North America and 2% at its North American beverage division.

Pepsi Zero Sugar was one exception to the trend, as its volume increased by 26%. Executives at Pepsi are optimistic about the future of the product, and the company recently relaunched the formula to match the Western Europe version more closely. As part of the relaunch, Pepsi will air two Super Bowl advertisements highlighting Pepsi Zero Sugar.

The Frito-Lay North America division reported flat volume for the quarter, despite double-digit revenue growth for several of its brands, including Doritos, Cheetos, and Smartfood.

For 2023, Pepsi projects a 6% increase in organic revenue and 8% growth in its core constant currency earnings per share, while Wall Street is forecasting a net sales growth of 3.5% and earnings per share growth of 7.3%.

During a conference call with analysts, CFO Hugh Johnston stated that the company may see a decline in volumes and a “mild” recession in the U.S. and some developed markets in the second half of 2023.

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7 must-try after-lunch soups to complete your meal

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soups

Soups are ideal meal options because they are convenient, nutritious, versatile, filling, and warm and comforting. They can be easily heated and served, are made with healthy ingredients, offer variety, and promote feelings of fullness. Additionally, they provide a warm and comforting experience, making them a great option for cold days or when feeling under the weather.

Soup’s on! Ready to take your lunch game to the next level? Whether you’re in the mood for something warm and comforting or something light and refreshing, these seven soups are the perfect way to complete your meal. So grab a bowl and get ready to indulge in some delicious soup-erior food!It’s time to embark on a soup-tastic journey! After a fulfilling lunch, there’s nothing like a bowl of warm and comforting soup to complete your meal.

Soup after lunch can add the final touch of hydration, nutrition, fullness, and comfort to your meal. It helps balance your meal by adding vitamins and minerals, satisfying hunger, and providing a warm, comforting experience. Try a variety of soups for an extra burst of flavor and nutrition.

Here are 7 soups to try after your lunch to complete the meal:

1.Chicken Noodle Soup: 

The Chicken noodle soup classic soup is a staple for many people, and for good reason. The combination of tender chicken, soft noodles, and a rich, flavorful broth makes for a satisfying and comforting meal.

2.Tomato Soup:

Nothing beats a bowl of warm and creamy tomato soup on a chilly day. This soup is easy to make, and the acidity from the tomatoes can help cleanse the palate after a heavy lunch.

3.Minestrone Soup: 

This hearty Italian soup is loaded with vegetables, beans, and pasta, making it a filling and nutritious meal. It’s a great option if you’re looking for a meat-free soup that still packs a flavorful punch.

4.Miso Soup: 

The Japanese soup is made with miso paste, which is fermented soybean paste, and is a great way to add some extra umami to your meal. It’s a light and refreshing option that’s perfect for a warm-up on a chilly day.

5.Split Pea Soup: 

This hearty and filling soup is made with dried peas, ham, and vegetables, making it a great option if you’re looking for a meat-based soup. The flavors are savory and satisfying, and the texture is thick and creamy.

6.Clam Chowder: 

Clam chowder is thick and creamy soup made with clams, potatoes, and a variety of seasonings, making it a rich and flavorful option. It’s a great choice if you’re looking for a soup that’s packed with seafood flavor.

7.Vegetable Soup: 

Vegetable soup is a great option if you’re looking for a healthy and nutritious meal. You can add any combination of vegetables, such as carrots, celery, and tomatoes, to create a filling and flavorful soup.

Well folks, if you’re tired of just slurping on plain water after lunch, these seven soups are the perfect solution! From creamy tomato to hearty split pea, there’s a soup for every mood and craving. So, next time you’re looking for a chuckle and a filling meal, grab a bowl and dive into these soupy delights. Your stomach and sense of humor will be overflowing with joy!

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India reports 13% growth in Agricultural & Processed Food Products during 9 Months of FY23

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Food Grains

India’s agricultural and processed food products have seen a significant rise in the first nine months of the financial year 2022-23. According to data from the Directorate General of Commercial Intelligence and Statistics (DGCI&S), the export of these products increased by 13% compared to the corresponding period of the previous financial year 2021-22.

The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) has fixed a target of $23.6 billion for the export of these products for the 2022-23 financial year. So far, an export of $19.7 billion has already been achieved in the first nine months of the current financial year, which is a significant increase from the $17.5 billion achieved over the same period in the previous financial year.

Processed fruits and vegetables have shown the largest growth, with a 30.36% increase in the first nine months of 2022. Fresh fruits and vegetables have also recorded a growth of 4% compared to the same period in the previous year. Processed food products such as cereal preparations and miscellaneous processed items have also shown a growth of 24.35% compared to the first nine months of the previous financial year.

Fresh fruit exports increased from $1,078 million in April-December 2021 to $1,121 million in the same period of the current financial year. Meanwhile, exports of processed fruits and vegetables have jumped from $1,129 million in April-December 2021 to $1,472 million in the first nine months of the current financial year.

Pulses have also seen a significant increase, with exports up 80.38% in the first nine months of the current financial year compared to the same period in the previous year.

Basmati rice exports have increased by 40.26% in the first nine months of the current financial year, from $2,379 million in April-December 2021 to $3,337 million in the same period of 2022. Non-basmati rice exports have also recorded a growth of 4% in the first nine months of the current financial year.

Lastly, wheat exports have increased by 4% in the first nine months of the current financial year, rising from $1,452 million in April-December 2021 to $1,508 million in the same period of 2022.

According to DGCI&S data, the country’s agricultural product exports grew by 19.92% in 2021-22 to reach $50 billion. This growth is significant, as it is on top of the 17.66% growth achieved in 2020-21, which saw exports reach $41.87 billion.

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Peanut butter recipe: Comforting nostalgia in a bite 

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peanut butter

The peanut butter and jelly sandwich is a classic American dish that is widely enjoyed within the country and perhaps even outside of it.  A peanut butter and jelly sandwich often elicit a nostalgic sense of belonging to any American who grew up eating the sandwiches made by his mother. The simplicity of its ingredients, often ranging from banana, and blueberries to apple slices make it a highly versatile dish and offer a lot of opportunity for its creator to remake it however he wishes.

The dish’s versatility also makes it uniquely suitable to be consumed with a variety of drinks like milk and fruit juices and its intimate connection with the upbringing of a classic American household also couples it with characteristic middle schools snacks like chips and cookies.

Every child’s favorite

The dish is generally consumed by children but it is by no means solely confined to them. Given the fact that the sandwich is a profuse source of proteins, fat, and carbohydrates, adults can also consume a peanut butter jelly sandwich for breakfast when they are running late for work or just maybe want to seek respite in the serenity of their childhood.

A tasty snack

Its high nutritional value also provides a variety of health benefits like helping with digestion, sustaining your energy, and providing the necessary proteins to build your body.

The required ingredient to make the simplest version of this dish include: 2 slices of bread, peanut butter, and jelly, or jam

Steps:

  • Lay out the two slices of bread.
  • Spread peanut butter on one slice of bread.
  • Spread jelly or jam on the other slice of bread.
  • Put the two slices together with the peanut butter and jelly sides facing each other.
  • Cut the sandwich in half if desired.
  • Enjoy your peanut butter and jelly sandwich!

The peanut butter jelly sandwich is a simple, easy-to-make, and the go-to comfort food for anyone who was brought up in an American household.  It is widely enjoyed due to its convenience, and versatility but most importantly because of the fact that it often reminds one of the ensconcements of motherly love.

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Varun Beverages Stock: Promoters to sell INR 850 Cr worth of Shares in a block deal

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varun-Beverages Pepsico

Promoters of Varun Beverages, one of the largest franchisees of PepsiCo outside the US, are reportedly planning to sell shares worth INR 850 crore ($116 million) via a block deal on February 10th, as reported by CNBC Awaaz, citing sources.

Edelweiss/Nuvama is said to be the broker for the deal. The promoters are expected to offer a discount of 5-7% on the deal.

Varun Beverages is one of the largest franchisees of PepsiCo in the world outside the US. The company operates in several countries, including India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Morocco. It was founded in 1990 and is headquartered in New Delhi, India.

The company offers a range of products, including carbonated soft drinks, juices, and bottled water, through its extensive network of franchisees. It has a strong reputation for its quality products and customer service, and is known for its commitment to sustainable practices and community engagement initiatives.

Varun Beverages, which closed 2.90% lower at INR 1,272.30 per share on the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) on February 9th, recently reported a 150.20% YoY increase in its consolidated net profit, reaching INR 81.52 crore ($11 million) for the quarter ending December 31st, 2022.

The company also saw a 22.7% increase in revenue, reaching INR 2,257.20 crore ($307 million), and a 17.8% growth in sales volume, totaling 132 million cases. Additionally, its EBITDA (Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation, and Amortization) increased by 48.1% to INR 307.5 crore ($41 million) in Q4 of CY22 from INR 207.6 crore ($28 million) in Q4 of CY21.

This planned share sale by the promoters of Varun Beverages is a significant development for the company and the market will be closely watching the outcome.

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Panzanella Salad: A new way to keep up with your fitness goals

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Panzanella Sald

Panzanella is a traditional Italian bread salad that originated in Tuscany. The salad is often served as a refreshing and light summer dish, and its popularity has spread throughout Italy and beyond. In terms of taste, Panzanella is characterized by its blend of crunchy and soft textures, fresh flavors, and tangy dressing. 

The bread, which is the centerpiece of the dish, soaks up the dressing and the juices from the vegetables, giving the salad a hearty and satisfying flavor. Panzanella is a prime example of Italian cuisine’s focus on using simple, fresh ingredients to create delicious and satisfying dishes from ingredients readily available.

Add ons

Common add-ons to the salad in order to enrich its taste include grilled meat like chicken, fish or steak or fish and also cheese, fresh herbs, nuts, avocado, etc. These combinations are just suggestions, and feel free to experiment and find what you like best!

A healthy snack

Panzanella salad can be a nutritious and healthy dish, depending on the ingredients and portion size.  The bread in Panzanella can provide carbohydrates for energy, as well as fiber to help with digestion. Tomatoes are a good source of vitamins C and K, as well as potassium and antioxidants that can help protect against cellular damage. Cucumbers are low in calories and high in water content, making them a hydrating and low-calorie vegetable option. Olive oil is a heart-healthy monounsaturated fat that can help reduce inflammation and improve heart health.

However, it’s important to note that the nutritional value of the salad will also depend on the amount of dressing used and the portion size of the dish. Additionally, the addition of ingredients such as cheese or cured meats can add extra calories and saturated fat to the dish, so it’s best to use these in moderation. 

Here is a recipe for Panzanella salad:

6 cups of stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes

3 large ripe tomatoes, chopped

1 large cucumber, sliced

1 red onion, thinly sliced

1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

1/2 cup of good-quality olive oil

3 tablespoons red wine vinegar

2 cloves of garlic, minced

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

1. In a large bowl, combine the bread cubes, chopped tomatoes, sliced cucumber, and sliced red onion.

2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.

3. Pour the dressing over the bread and vegetable mixture, and toss to combine.

4. Let the salad sit for about 10 minutes to allow the bread to soak up the dressing and become softer.

5. Just before serving, add the chopped basil leaves and toss them again. Serve the Panzanella salad at room temperature, garnished with additional basil leaves or cheese if desired.

Panzanella salad is a traditional Italian dish that is characterized by its blend of fresh vegetables, stale bread, and tangy dressing. It can be a nutritious and healthy dish, with ingredients like tomatoes, cucumbers, olive oil, and red wine vinegar providing vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and healthy fats. The dish is easy to make, with a simple procedure of tossing the ingredients together and letting them marinate for a few minutes. 

Whether you’re looking for a light summer dish or a hearty Italian-style meal, Panzanella salad is definitely worth a try.

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Pizza Recipe: Delicious Way to start a party 

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pasta

Originally belonging to the country of Italy, pizza has now gained popularity the world over, acquiring ever new variations as it comes into contact with the cultures outside of which it initially originated. A pizza is usually made with thin crusts and simple toppings such as tomatoes and olives but its American counterpart has a thicker crust and a wide variety of toppings ranging from meat, vegetables, and at times even pineapple!

Globally the dish has adapted itself to the tastes and preferences of different nationalities and remains one of the most popular choices for festive occasions. It is often consumed with beverages like coke and Pepsi but items like garlic bread and desserts are found to be more delicious when combined with any choice of pizza.

Although detrimental to health if consumed in excess, a pizza still provides various health benefits if co-summed in appropriate amounts because it contains proteins, fats, and a relatively high concentration of carbohydrates. To mitigate the amount of calorie intake, one could also choose a whole grain crust and reduce the amount of cheese and meat added as toppings. The nutritional content of the dish aids in digestion, regulating blood glucose levels, and also helps the body repair tissues. A moderate concentration of antioxidants in pizzas also helps protect cells from damage.

The best thing about Pizza is it can be made as both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes.

The ingredients for a vegetarian pizza are: 

Veggie Delight

1 pre-made or homemade pizza crust

1 cup pizza sauce

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

1 cup diced vegetables (such as bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, and olives)

1 tbsp olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  • Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
  • Roll out the pizza crust on a lightly floured surface and place it on a baking sheet or pizza pan.
  • Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the crust, leaving a small border around the edge.
  • Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
  • Arrange the diced vegetables on top of the cheese.
  • Brush the olive oil over the vegetables and sprinkle salt and pepper on top.
  • Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  • Serve hot and enjoy!

Chicken Cheese Pizza Recipe:

Ingredients:

1 pre-made pizza crust

1 cup marinara sauce

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

1 cup cooked and shredded chicken or other meats of your choice (e.g. pepperoni, sausage, ham, etc.)

1 cup chopped vegetables (e.g. bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, olives, etc.)

Instructions:

  • Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
  • Place the pizza crust on a baking sheet or pizza pan.
  • Spread the marinara sauce evenly over the crust.
  • Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
  • Add the cooked and shredded meat and chopped vegetables on top of the cheese.
  • Place the pizza in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  • Remove from oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy!

It is quite surprising that such a seemingly simple dish made with a few ingredients has won the hearts of many around the world. Maybe its widespread popularity, notwithstanding its appetizing nature, owes its explanation to the fact that the dish somehow manages to retain itself in spite of undergoing innumerable variations. Such resilience perhaps is why the Pizza continues to be relished. But whether pineapples desecrate the dish’s Italian origin still remains open to question.

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Spaghetti Pasta: The perfect start to your solo cooking journey 

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Pasta is one of those things that everyone loves to splurge on.  It can be a great food to cook with, or it can be a show-stopper when trying to eat healthy or are on a diet. However, pasta doesn’t just have to be eaten in one way. In fact, there are a variety of different ways to prepare and enjoy pasta.

Think about it – there are macaroni and cheese, carbonara, ravioli, cannelloni, and so many more options! So why not try something new and write about pasta in a fun way?

Pasta can be a nutritious and healthy food choice when consumed in moderation and paired with nutrient-dense ingredients. It is a modest source of protein and low in fat which makes it a good option for those looking to manage their calorie intake. Additionally, the nutritional value and health benefits can vary depending on the type of pasta and the ingredients used in the dish.

Here is a simple recipe for making spaghetti pasta with marinara sauce:

Ingredients:

1 pound spaghetti pasta

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 medium onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 cans (28 ounces each) of whole peeled tomatoes, crushed by hand

1 teaspoon dried basil

1 teaspoon dried oregano

Salt and black pepper, to taste

Fresh basil leaves, for serving (optional)

Procedure:

  • Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water and drain the pasta.
  • Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
  • Add the crushed tomatoes, dried basil, and dried oregano to the saucepan. Season with salt and black pepper, to taste. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly, about 15 minutes.
  • Toss the cooked pasta with the marinara sauce and a splash of the reserved pasta water, if needed, to moisten it. Serve the pasta topped with fresh basil leaves, if desired.

Here are some tips for writing about pasta in a fun way:

1) Go beyond the traditional macaroni and cheese recipe. Try making variations such as tangy tomato sauce with parmesan cheese or creamy pesto sauce.

2) Be creative with your pasta shapes. There are endless possibilities, like penne arrabbiata with braised beef or spaghetti with seafood.

3) Take advantage of dried herbs and spices to give your dishes a unique flavor profile.

4) Make sure to serve your pasta warm or cold – it’s all up to you!

5) Serve your pasta in individual bowls or on palettes so that everyone can have their own personalized dish.

6) Have some fun with photo captions for your posts – who doesn’t love a good laugh?

7) Keep the conversation going by sharing recipes, cooking tips, or anything else related to pasta cuisine!

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Badam Milk: The sweet showstopper of every Indian festival 

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badam - milk

Badam milk is the go-to drink after a long day of work or a tiring workout. This sweet drink is enjoyed by everyone right from our kids to old people. It is also used as an ingredient separately in sweets and savory dishes. Badam milk is often used as a dairy-free option for those who are lactose intolerant or have other dietary restrictions. As for its taste, it is often described as a mild, nutty, and slightly sweet flavor that compliments many dishes and drinks well.

The perfect blend

Badam milk is widely used in Indian sweets such as kulfi, kheer, and rabri. It is also used in mid-eastern sweets such as Turkish delight. Often used as a dairy-free alternative in recipes such as smoothies, baked goods, and creamy sauces, badam milk is a healthy and yummy attraction for kids. Almond milk is a popular choice among vegans and those who follow a plant-based diet due to its dairy-free nature. Almond milk lattes, Almond milk smoothies, Almond milk and cereal, Almond milk chai, etc are some must-try variations.

Nutty and healthy

Almond milk is a good source of certain vitamins and minerals. It is a good source of calcium and is low in fat compared to dairy milk. Almond milk can be a good choice for those who are lactose intolerant or have other dietary restrictions. It is important to note that while almond milk has many potential health benefits, it is not a complete source of nutrition and should be consumed as part of a balanced diet. 

However, a typical recipe for homemade almond milk requires the following ingredients.

Almond Milk recipe:

1 cup raw almonds

4 cups filtered water

2-3 Medjool dates (optional, for sweetness)

1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, for flavor)

Pinch of salt (optional, for flavor)

Procedure for making homemade almond milk:

  • Soak the almonds: Place the almonds in a bowl and cover them with water. Let them soak for at least 8 hours or overnight.
  • Drain the almonds: After soaking, drain the almonds and rinse them under running water.
  • Blend the almonds: Add the soaked almonds, filtered water, dates (if using), vanilla extract (if using), and salt (if using) to a blender. Blend on high speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
  • Strain the mixture: Pour the blended mixture through a nut milk bag or a fine-mesh strainer into a large bowl, pressing on the solids to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard the solids.
  • Chill the milk: Transfer the strained milk to a glass container with a tight-fitting lid. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until chilled.
  • Your homemade almond milk is now ready to use. It can be enjoyed on its own, added to coffee or tea, or used in cooking and baking. The milk will last for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Pro tip from a fellow foodie: 

 While making homemade almond milk, it is recommended to choose high-quality, raw almonds and blend them with filtered water for the best flavor and texture. Almond milk can be enjoyed on its own, added to coffee or tea, or used in cooking and baking. With its many health benefits and versatile uses, almond milk is a great choice for anyone looking to add more plant-based options to their diet.

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ASHA representatives held actions against GM Mustard Approval on National Fafe Food Day

Mustard Crops

On Thursday, February 9th, which marked National Safe Food Day, representatives of various organizations and individuals across India organized events to protest against the approval of GM Mustard.

This day was established after the indefinite moratorium placed on Bt Brinjal, India’s first GM food crop, by the central government on February 9th, 2010.

The representatives are strongly opposing the environmental release and commercial cultivation of GM Mustard, which was approved by the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) in October 2022. The matter is now pending in the Supreme Court. Civil society groups are claiming that the GM technique is not safe and does not result in any difference in yield.

A campaign named Sarson Satyagraha has also been launched, asking people to protect their right to safe food. On February 9th, various actions were taken, including round table conferences, cycle rallies, and consumer outreach events to raise awareness about the dangers of GM Mustard. In some places, signature campaigns were also held and social media was used to spread the message using the hashtag #NoGMMustardPoison.

Organic mustard products were gifted to ministers of mustard-growing or mustard-consuming states to emphasize that this is their last chance to consume safe and natural mustard if they don’t act now. The goal of these events is to educate consumers and raise awareness about the dangers of GM Mustard

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