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Ministry directs e-commerce platforms to remove Bournvita and similar beverages from ‘health drinks’ category

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Bournvita
Bournvita

The Ministry of Commerce and Industry has issued an advisory to e-commerce entities, instructing them to exclude all beverages, including Bournvita, from the classification of ‘health drinks’ on their websites and platforms.

The Ministry, in a notification dated April 10, stated that the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR), a statutory body established under Section (3) of the Commission of Protection of Child Rights (CPCR) Act, 2005, after conducting an inquiry under Section 14 of the CRPC Act 2005, has determined that there is no specific definition of a ‘health drink’ under the FSS Act 2006, as per the rules and regulations submitted by FSSAI and Mondelez India Food Pvt Ltd.

Continue Exploring: Zerodha CEO Nithin Kamath calls for front-of-pack labeling amid Bournvita controversy

The advisory comes in the wake of an investigation by the NCPCR, indicating that Bournvita exceeds the acceptable sugar levels.

Earlier, the NCPCR pressed the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) to take action against companies that violated safety standards and guidelines by marketing power supplements as ‘health drinks’.

Continue Exploring: NCPCR demands removal of misleading ads by Bournvita over allegations of high sugar content

According to the regulatory body, the term ‘health drink’ lacks a specific definition in the country’s food laws, and presenting a product as such violates regulations.

Earlier this month, the FSSAI also instructed e-commerce platforms to refrain from categorizing dairy-based or malt-based beverages as ‘health drinks’.

Continue Exploring: FSSAI directs e-commerce companies to stop labeling dairy and cereal-based beverages as ‘health’ or ‘energy’ drinks

The discussion surrounding the potential health concerns of Bournvita first surfaced when a YouTuber criticized the powdered supplement in a video, pointing out its high sugar content, cocoa solids, and harmful additives. The video implied that these ingredients might present notable health hazards to children, potentially including an increased risk of cancer.

Continue Exploring: Bournvita refutes social media influencer’s high sugar content claims, deems video ‘unscientific’

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Caribbean conglomerate ANSA McAL to launch Carib beer in India next year

Carib Beer
Carib Beer

ANSA McAL, a Caribbean conglomerate, is set to launch its renowned Carib beer brand in India next year.

The Trinidad and Tobago-based company is collaborating with local distiller Globus Spirits for a venture in India.

Globus ANSA, a new venture, is set to produce Carib within the country. ANSA McAL said it is planning to introduce Carib in India in January.

According to a company representative, “trial brewing will commence in July/August.” “Three trial runs will be conducted by our quality team while collaborating with Globus to choose an appropriate brewery. If all goes well, we plan to introduce Carib in India by January 2025.”

Continue Exploring: Woodsmen Mountain Whiskey raises $1.5 Million in Series A funding led by FinFirst Group and Anthill

Globus Spirits’ business encompasses a range of products, including sanitizer, CO2, bioethanol, and consumer spirits brands.

The company operates three consumer spirits distilleries located in Rajasthan, West Bengal, and Haryana.

ANSA McAL announced that Carib will first be available for purchase in the state of Uttar Pradesh.

“We are enthusiastic about the growth potential in the country. Over the past few years, we have been closely studying the Indian market, gaining insights into its key players and brands,” stated the spokesperson.

In a separate statement upon announcing the venture, ANSA McAL CEO Anthony Sabaga III expressed confidence, stating, “We believe our partnership will enable us to meet the increasing demand for premium beverages by enticing consumers with our unique products.”

In a filing with the stock exchange, the publicly listed Globus Spirits stated that the “primary goal” of the “jointly owned venture” is to produce and distribute beer in India, with an “initial emphasis” on Carib.

The spokesperson from ANSA McAL suggested that the companies aim to develop a variety of brands for sale in India.

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“Our first priority is to introduce Carib beer. Nevertheless, we are lucky to have a wide variety of products that we think will appeal to the Indian market,” the spokesman said.

“Our primary focus will be on the Carib brand.” However, we are still open to exploring more third-party brands in the future,” they stated.

ANSA McAL’s Carib enterprise operates four breweries: one in Trinidad and Tobago, another in Grenada, a third in St. Kitts and Nevis, and a fourth in the US. The company distributes beers and RTDs in over 30 countries.

During the initial nine months of Globus Spirits’ fiscal year 2024, it recorded revenue of INR 18.2 billion ($218.3 million), with one-third originating from its consumer business.

Despite a 2% decline in volumes, the revenue generated by Globus Spirits’ consumer business increased by 6% during the nine-month period.

The company, renowned for brands such as Governors’ Reserve whisky and Snoski vodka, estimated its consumer sales to be 11 million cases. Additionally, its bulk alcohol sales were estimated to be around 160 million liters.

Globus Spirits also operates an RTD division named Bored Beverages, established in 2020, featuring brands like Not Out.

Continue Exploring: Bacardi India intensifies focus on premiumization as demand for high-end spirits surges

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Milk consumption in Germany sees further decline in 2023, cheese exports reach record high

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Milk
Milk (Representative Image)

Milk consumption in Germany experienced another decline in 2023, as indicated by government data.

Preliminary data released by the Bundesinformationszentrums Landwirtschaft (BZL) indicates that the per capita milk consumption in Germany dropped to under 46kg in 2023, down from 46.1kg in 2022, marking a continuation of the previous year’s record low.

In the same period, the production of drinking milk decreased by nearly 1%, totaling approximately 4.2 million tons compared to the preceding year.

Per capita cheese consumption declined from 24.6kg to 23.8kg, marking a reduction of over 3%.

Continue Exploring: Califia Farms launches plant-based milk matching dairy nutrition levels

Nevertheless, cheese production rose to 2.66 million tons in 2023 from 2.64 million tons in 2022, driven by increasing exports.

In 2023, Germany achieved a record-breaking export of cheese, totaling 1.41 million tons, marking a 6.6% increase compared to the previous year.

The dairy cow population saw a 2.5% decrease in 2023, amounting to around 3.7 million animals.

As per the BZL, butter consumption has also seen a decline in Germany.

Continue Exploring: Portugal’s Ministry of Health to roll out Nutri-Score labeling system for food products

The per capita consumption of butter, milk fat, and milk fat products dropped by 1.4% to 5.6kg in the country.

Butter production experienced a nearly 4% decline last year, while the overall production of the “butter, milk fat, and milk fat products” category saw a slight increase of 1.8% to 481,000 tons.

Earlier this month, the BZL reported that meat consumption in Germany reached a new record low in 2023.

Consumption decreased by 0.8% year-on-year to 51.6kg, setting a new record low for the country, following a decline to 52kg per person in 2022.

Continue Exploring: Germany’s meat consumption reaches all-time low in 2023

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Taco Bell introduces refreshing Agua Frescas beverages in California!

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Taco Bell Agua Frescas

Taco Bell has introduced a fresh beverage line called Agua Frescas, available exclusively at one location in Irvine, California.

Enhanced with authentic fruit chunks and crafted with a green tea foundation, the drink debuts in flavors like Strawberry Passionfruit, Peach Mango, and Dragonfruit Berry.

The Agua Frescas collection is available in a 16oz cup size, priced at $3.99.

Customers have the option to place their orders in person at the 2222 Barranca Parkway location.

Continue Exploring: Yum Brands goes high-tech: AI set to reshape operations at Pizza Hut, KFC, and Taco Bell

The exclusive collection will be accessible until late May 2024 or while stocks last.

Taylor Montgomery, the Chief Marketing Officer of Taco Bell, expressed, “Our aim is to make our beverages as iconic as our food.”

“Our new Agua Refrescas will aid us on our journey to establish Taco Bell a beverage destination. They are the perfect, vibrant pairing with anything our fans desire from Taco Bell.”

Following recent trials of Coffee Chillers and Churro Chillers in Southern California, Taco Bell is actively exploring new additions to its beverage menu with this initiative.

Drawing inspiration from Mexican flavors, Coffee Chillers and Churro Chillers were exclusively featured as limited-time menu items at the Santa Margarita Parkway store in Mission Viejo and the Barranca Parkway store in Irvine.

Continue Exploring: Taco Bell and Kraft Heinz unveil craving kits, allowing fans to recreate iconic fast-food flavors at home

The Coffee Chillers were served in a 16oz cup, featuring a flavored base, filled with blended iced coffee, and topped with a layer of cold foam.

The Churro Chiller was also offered in a 16oz cup, featuring a flavored base, filled with a blended sweet shake, and topped with cold foam and churro crumbles.

The Sweet Vanilla Churro Chiller also sported a purple hue.

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Tim Hortons unveils exciting new Iced Capps and refreshing cold drinks menu across Canada!

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Tim Hortons new Iced Capps and Cold Drinks

To celebrate 25 years of its beloved Iced Capp, Tim Hortons, the Canadian restaurant chain, is introducing the deliciously new Caramilk Iced Capp and reintroducing the fan-favorite Oreo Double Stuf Iced Capp.

The Caramilk Iced Capp blends the signature Tims Iced Capp base with milk chocolate chunks, topped with whipped cream and drizzled with caramel syrup.

The Oreo Double Stuf Iced Capp features Oreo cookie crumbles, vanilla syrup, a creamy layer of vanilla-flavored whipped topping, and an extra sprinkle of Oreo crumbles for added delight.

Continue Exploring: Tim Hortons expands menu selection with delectable loaded wraps and bowls

Tim Hortons is unveiling its complete array of refreshing cold beverages for the summer of 2024. Among them is the Mango Starfruit Sparkling Quencher, delivering a taste of the tropics, and the Wildberry Hibiscus Sparkling Quencher, blending fruity and floral tones for a delightful sip.

Another standout option is the Tiramisu Cold Brew, crafted with 16-hour steeped espresso-infused cold foam, combined with tiramisu syrup, and finished with a dusting of cocoa powder on top.

Carolina Berti, Tim Hortons’ Vice President of Category and Innovation, expressed, “As my favorite season arrives—cold beverage season—we’re thrilled to offer a range of incredibly delicious, flavorful, and thirst-quenching options to savor throughout the spring and summer months.”

“And it’s really exciting to be commemorating the significant anniversary of the much-loved Iced Capp, a beloved frozen beverage that is exclusive to Tim Hortons and a summertime mainstay for a great number of our guests across Canada.”

These refreshing spring and summer beverages are now available at select Tim Hortons locations throughout Canada and can also be ordered for delivery via the Tim Hortons app.

Continue Exploring: Tim Hortons partners with BAILEYS for a unique non-alcoholic menu

In February 2024, the restaurant chain broadened its hot beverage selection by introducing the Fudge Brownie Latte and the Marble Swirl Hot Chocolate.

Both beverages are crafted using freshly ground espresso beans and can be personalized with either dairy or dairy alternatives.

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Bastian Restaurant expands its reach, now open in Bengaluru

Bastian Restaurant
Bastian Restaurant

Bastian Hospitality Private Limited has launched Bastian Garden City in Bengaluru.

Situated in the Garden City, this marks the third Bastian venture in India, following two in Mumbai, situated in Bandra and Dadar respectively. Reflecting the essence of its Mumbai counterparts, Bastian in Bengaluru occupies a breathtaking space adorned with décor reminiscent of stylish holiday destinations worldwide. Its captivating boho-chic ambiance and elegantly understated interiors, featuring hues of beige, white, and taupe, serve as an ideal canvas for striking design features such as an imposing bar, gently swaying vertical ceiling fans, and a contemporary chandelier that casts a soft, inviting glow, setting the perfect evening atmosphere.

Ever since its inception in 2016, Bastian has garnered acclaim for its culinary delights—a fusion of daring experimentation and beloved comfort fare. True to its reputation, Bastian Bengaluru presents a menu brimming with decadent, palate-pleasing dishes drawing inspiration from both American and Asian cuisines. Complementing this gastronomic journey is a meticulously crafted bar selection, ensuring Bastian remains a premier destination on Mumbai’s nightlife scene.

Continue Exploring: Radisson Blu Kaushambi delights palates with the launch of Skygrill Restaurant, featuring Lebanese and Mediterranean cuisine

Ranjit Bindra, the founder and CEO of Bastian Hospitality Private Limited, expresses, “Bastian emerged as a dream brand in Mumbai, the City of Dreams, and now finds its debut in Bengaluru, the Garden City, known for its youthful energy and vibrancy. Our vision has always centered on crafting a hospitality brand renowned for its exceptional dining and bar experiences. We’re thrilled to kick off our nationwide expansion with this exciting launch in Bengaluru. Drawing inspiration from our global adventures and trends, we’ve adeptly tailored each offering to resonate with our local patrons. We eagerly anticipate our new audience in Bengaluru embracing the Bastian experience, a journey we’ve poured our hearts into creating.”

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Gold price surge dampens demand, Senco Gold shifts focus to diamond jewellery and consumer schemes

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Senco Gold & Diamonds

Senco Gold Ltd, a prominent player in the jewellery retail sector, stated that the recent sharp surge in gold prices due to geopolitical reasons has dampened demand. The company emphasized that the industry’s first-quarter performance hinges upon ongoing buying propensity during festive and auspicious New Year celebrations. Based in Kolkata, the retail chain has implemented a range of measures to address the demand situation, including a shift towards diamond-studded gold jewellery and consumer-centric schemes.

Nevertheless, a senior company official remarked that these measures might not fully offset the 15-20 percent decline in volume observed in March and April.

Senco Gold’s Managing Director and CEO, Suvenkar Sen, highlighted the significant fluctuations in gold prices, noting a recent 10 percent increase in the past month and a 23-25 percent rise over the last six months. This pronounced volatility has adversely affected retail purchasing sentiment, resulting in a notable 15-20 percent decline in industry volumes, Sen stated.

Eid, Bengali New Year, Akshay Tritiya, and various regional New Year celebrations are anticipated to boost demand in stores. However, some retailers may face obstacles due to cash movement restrictions enforced by the election model code of conduct.

Continue Exploring: Senco breaks new ground as first Indian jewellery brand to join ONDC network

Senco disclosed a 23 percent increase in its consolidated net profit, reaching INR 27.6 crore for the quarter ended June 2023. This growth was supported by a 30 percent expansion in revenue, totaling INR 1,305 crore.

He did acknowledge, however, that in terms of value, the market is anticipated to remain stagnant, given that gold prices are hovering around INR 70,000 per 10 grams.

Sen anticipates that the year-on-year fourth-quarter sales, which concluded in March 2024, will exhibit a flat performance.

The company is currently in a silent period for results, therefore Sen declined to divulge more specific details.

Senco announced the introduction of a price guarantee scheme for six months as part of the Marigold scheme. Traditionally, the industry offers such guarantees only up to one month until Akshay Tritiya. With this scheme, customers can book gold and secure immunity from price rises.

During this period, the company is additionally providing discounts on making charges to stimulate sales. Moreover, it offers DigiGold, enabling customers to invest in gold for as little as INR 300.

Continue Exploring: Top jewellery retailers hold back on lab-grown diamonds citing low consumer demand

Sen stated that the company has shifted its focus towards diamond-studded gold jewellery, a move that has either minimized the price difference or even rendered the ornaments less expensive, given their composition of 14-carat gold.

He anticipates that the contribution of diamonds, including lab-grown ones, currently comprising 11 percent of total revenue, will rise to a minimum of 15 percent within the next 2-3 years.

The company recorded a revenue of INR 4,104 crore and a net profit of INR 148.8 crore for the nine-month period that ended on December 24th.

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Barista unveils Mango Festival featuring exquisite Alphonso delights!

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Barista Mango Festival

Barista, a trailblazer in fostering coffee culture in India, has just unveiled its Mango Festival, an ode to the exuberance of the revered king of fruits during the summertime.

Barista has brought forth two irresistible treats designed to tantalize your taste buds and invigorate your senses: the Alphonso Thick Shake and the Alphonso Delight Gateau.

The Alphonso Delight Gateau tantalizes with its luscious blend of fresh Alphonso mangoes encased within a sumptuous gateau pastry, promising a harmonious fusion of flavors and textures.

Accompanying the Gateau is the Alphonso Thick Shake, a revitalizing drink that marries Alphonso mangoes with Barista’s exclusive recipe, offering a delightful explosion of tropical flavors in every sip. Guaranteed to win over mango aficionados, the Alphonso Thick Shake is set to be a crowd favorite.

Continue Exploring: Barista Coffee hits the 400-store mark, aiming for 500 stores by 2024

Rajat Agarwal, CEO of Barista Coffee, expressed, “The Mango Festival showcases Barista’s commitment to innovation and excellence, providing customers with a one-of-a-kind and delightful experience. Mangoes are quintessential to Indian summers, and we’re thrilled to unveil these new mango delights that authentically encapsulate their essence.”

Both the Alphonso Thick Shake and Alphonso Delight Gateau will be accessible at every Barista establishment across India.

Founded in 2000, Barista Coffee Company stands as India’s trailblazer in cultivating coffee culture. The Barista Café chain offers an authentic coffee experience within a welcoming, convivial atmosphere, fostering a cozy space for patrons to unwind amidst engaging discussions and a steaming cup of coffee. Apart from India, Barista cafés are also situated across the enchanting landscapes of Sri Lanka and the Maldives.

Continue Exploring: Barista and Fudr team up to launch reward-based ordering app

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Blinkit expands offerings, now delivers Lenskart eyewear in under 10 minutes!

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Blinkit
Blinkit

Blinkit, the quick commerce company under Zomato‘s umbrella, is now offering delivery of eyewear items from Lenskart in less than 10 minutes, according to a LinkedIn post by Blinkit founder Albinder Dhindsa on Friday.

The post mentioned, “Blinkit customers can now receive Lenskart.com products within 10 minutes. Kicking off with the delivery of sunglasses and their Hustlr range (Computer Glasses). It will be intriguing to witness the evolution of Hustlr as a brand over time.”

Quick commerce companies are broadening their offerings beyond groceries. Categories like beauty, toys, health, and electronics are experiencing strong sales growth on quick-commerce platforms.

Continue Exploring: Quick commerce platforms Blinkit and Zepto expand into e-commerce, targeting fashion, beauty, electronics, and more

Arindam Paul, a founding member and CBO at Atomberg, announced in a LinkedIn post on Thursday that the company has initiated sales of its products on a quick commerce platform. He emphasized that the prices remain consistent with those offered on other e-commerce platforms.

Last week, Blinkit made waves when it announced that it would be launching the PS 5 on its platform. “Blinkit customers residing in Delhi-NCR, Mumbai, & Bengaluru will be able to have the latest PS 5 & controllers delivered within 10 minutes,” Dhindsa wrote.

A week after the launch, he went on LinkedIn to reassure customers that the company is actively replenishing PlayStation 5 stock at its stores, as the product sold out within a week.

Continue Exploring: Blinkit to outgrow Zomato within a year, says CEO Deepinder Goyal

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SGF India diversifies portfolio with the acquisition of Mom’s Kitchen

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SGF India (Spice Grill Flame) Mom's Kitchen
Mahesh Chopra, Founder of Mom's Kitchen with Kewal Ashwini Ahuja, Founder of SGF India

In a notable development within the culinary realm, SGF India (Spice Grill Flame) has announced the acquisition of Mom’s Kitchen, a Chandigarh-based food chain, recognized for its authentic home-cooked flavors and warm hospitality in Indian cuisine. This strategic move signals a new chapter for both entities, as they join forces to elevate the culinary experience to new heights.

The brand has accomplished the feat of establishing over 100 outlets nationwide, standing as proof of the dedication demonstrated by SGF India and Mom’s Kitchen.

SGF acquired Mom’s Kitchen for its unique commitment to providing healthy, flavorful home-cooked meals tailored to individuals living away from home, such as students and working professionals. This acquisition has broadened the reach of Mom’s Kitchen’s flavors, leveraging SGF India’s network for strategic outlet expansion. It has also facilitated new marketing initiatives, leading to higher foot traffic, customer engagement, and revenue generation, showcasing their mutual dedication to delivering exceptional culinary experiences.

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“We are delighted to embark on this journey with Mom’s Kitchen, as we both share a mutual commitment to delivering unmatched culinary experiences. Our partnership highlights the transformative impact of collaboration in the culinary world. Surpassing the milestone of 100+ outlets speaks volumes about our steadfast dedication to excellence. Together, we are positioned for ongoing success, fueled by innovation and a shared love for gastronomy,” stated Kewal Ashwini Ahuja, Founder of SGF India.

Moving forward, Mom’s Kitchen and SGF India have devised thorough growth strategies encompassing intelligent location selection, franchise model enhancement, menu innovation, digital presence, and strategic partnerships. These endeavors are geared towards enhancing their culinary offerings and bolstering their presence in the flourishing food industry.

Established in 2017 by Mahesh Chopra, Mom’s Kitchen specializes in offering nutritious meals, addressing a significant gap in the market. With a presence in over 20 outlets nationwide, Mom’s Kitchen’s focus on providing healthy home-cooked meals resonated with a diverse customer base, positioning it as a valuable asset within SGF’s portfolio.

Continue Exploring: Tata Consumer Products eyes further acquisitions after Capital Foods and Organic India deals

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