Thursday, January 22, 2026
Home Blog Page 713

Haldiram’s Nagpur launches luxury chocolate brand ‘Cocobay’ catering to Indian taste buds

By
SnackTeam
-
0
Cocobay

Haldiram’s Nagpur Group has introduced its high-end chocolate brand, ‘Cocobay,’ to the Indian market. Produced and promoted by Haldirams Nagpur Group, Cocobay distinguishes itself as a premium chocolate collection made from the highest quality and 100% authentic cocoa, blended with the finest global ingredients. With a varied selection comprising Rochers, Rocks, Premium Bars, Cigars, Discs, Coins, Bricks, Squares, Hearts, and buttons, Cocobay is poised to revolutionize the chocolate scene in India.

Tailored to satisfy the refined palates of chocolate enthusiasts, especially those attuned to Indian flavors, Cocobay introduces a distinctive fusion of subtle fruit nuances and mild spice undertones. Hazelnut, Caramel, Cranberry, Orange peel, Dark Almond, Green Tea, Chili Guava, and Crunchy Lemon are among the thoughtfully selected flavors that deliver a delightful explosion of taste with every bite. This premium chocolate collection embodies a refined amalgamation of fruity, velvety, and lingering flavors, acting as a genuine expression of one’s sentiments. Cocobay’s range of products mirrors the discerning taste preferences of the Indian palate, offering an exclusive and flavorful assortment of premium chocolates enriched with an extra hint of fruity notes.

With prices starting from INR 150, Cocobay chocolates will be readily available at all premium Haldiram’s stores across key cities such as Mumbai, Nagpur, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Chennai, Surat, Indore, Bhopal, and in the interiors of Maharashtra and Goa. This strategic move positions Haldiram’s Nagpur at the forefront of the retail chocolate market, enticing chocolate connoisseurs with a tempting blend of quality and unique Indian flavors.

Avin Agarwal – Director, Haldirams Foods International Pvt Ltd said, “We did conduct a deep research and study on the premium chocolate market in India. We see huge potential in this category. Our product is well placed in the said category with right price points and offering. Being into F&B business for decades now, we understand the market nuances well and have optimized on our reach in terms of markets, production facilities and the expertise we hold in this category. We see this brand contributing significantly towards the overall portfolio of Haldiram’s Nagpur group. Where the bars are targeted towards the more day to day need, the popular range of Cocobay is specifically created for the hardcore chocolate lovers, and make a perfect gifting solution for both personal and corporate as well. The Cocobay range will be initially available at all premium Haldirams stores and the Cocobay website as of now.”

Adeesh Jain – GM, Haldirams Foods International Pvt Ltd said, “We are extremely delighted to foray into the Indian Premium Cholate market segment. We see immense growth opportunity for this segment in India, as the market is constantly evolving, mainly due to upgraded lifestyles, improved spending power, global exposure. Secondly, Indian consumer is now well travelled and well educated, thanks to the internet penetration in India. We have designed, crafted and created Cocobay for these Indian chocolate adherents, with a beautiful amalgamation of fruity and spice flavours blended with 100 percent original cocoa. All the ingredients are sourced from the best places around the world, which ensure that the quality and taste is not compromised for.”

Advertisement

PepsiCo’s key bottler Varun Beverages acquires South Africa-based Bevco for INR 1,320 Crore

By
SnackTeam
-
0
Varun Beverages
Varun Beverages

On Tuesday, Varun Beverages Ltd (VBL), PepsiCo‘s largest franchise bottler, announced the acquisition of South Africa-based Beverage Company (Bevco) and its wholly-owned subsidiaries at an enterprise value of INR 1,320 crore. This strategic move is intended to facilitate the expansion of VBL’s geographical footprint in the African market.

Bevco possesses franchise rights from PepsiCo in South Africa, Lesotho, and Eswatini, along with distribution rights for Namibia and Botswana. The company also owns a portfolio of beverage brands, including Refreshhh (a high-caffeine content drink), Reboost (an energy drink), Coo-ee (a carbonated drink available in classic flavors), and JIVE (a fizzy Lemonade). The stated enterprise-level value of the proposed transaction is ZAR 3 billion (INR 1,320 crore).

VBL anticipates finalizing the transaction, involving “cash consideration,” before July 31, 2024. The filing also noted that Bevco recorded a net revenue of INR 1,590 crore in FY23.

Bevco operates five manufacturing facilities, with two located in Johannesburg and one each in Durban, East London, and Cape Town. The combined installed capacity of these facilities is 3,600 bottles per minute (BPM).

“The acquisition will enable VBL to expand its geographical footprint in Africa,” said VBL in a regulatory disclosure. South Africa is the largest soft drinks market in the African continent, which is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.3 per cent for the next four years till 2027.

“The rising affluence of South African households has resulted in urbanization, coupled with longer workdays and emerging interest from female consumers, which has contributed to the growth in the Industry,” said VBL.

At present, B-brands largely dominate the beverage industry in the region, holding a market share that is potentially half of its total size. PepsiCo, in contrast, commands a relatively insignificant low single-digit market share.

Nevertheless, it emphasized that “innovation in product portfolio aligned with favorable demographics, combined with a focus on the Go-To-Market strategy, will propel lateral growth across various segments.”

Additionally, in a separate filing, VBL informed that it has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Government of Jharkhand on December 18, 2023, for its proposed manufacturing plant in Patratu, Jharkhand.

The plant is projected to incur “a total capital outlay of approximately INR 450 crore upon full commissioning,” as stated. VBL represents 90 percent of PepsiCo’s beverage sales volume in India.

Its revenue for the fiscal year ending on March 31, 2023, stood at INR 10,595.83 crore.

Advertisement

11 Reasons Why Quitting Sugar Should Top Your New Year’s Resolution List

By
Aashi Goel
-
0
No SUgar

While it might be time for sweet beginnings, sugar is one thing that’s not part of the plan! As we usher in the New Year, it’s time to consider a resolution that goes beyond the usual suspects. Amidst the promises of hitting the gym or learning a new skill, here’s a compelling idea: make ditching sugar your primary goal for the year ahead. From health benefits to renewed energy, this one might just form the bottom of the pyramid.

What Is Sugar Becoming The Bad Guy

Reducing or eliminating sugar is a wise choice for everyone, no matter their age or health. Sugar comes in different forms, like natural sugars, the white or brown sugar you know, or fancier-sounding ones like honey and maple syrup.

The natural sugars in fruits, some dairy, and certain veggies bring along good stuff like fiber, vitamins, and minerals. These natural sugars are actually important for a healthy diet when eaten in the right amounts. In fact, if you eliminate certain foods, your body might wind up lacking its main source of energy that you get from natural sugars present in carbohydrates which facilitate clear thinking and help you accomplish your daily tasks. Without that energy, you might become agitated, anxious, and experience headaches.

Sugar Food

The other ones that are tossed into food during cooking or processing, the artificial and fancy ones are the ones you need to watch out for. Added sugars add calories without giving us many nutrients, which isn’t great when we consume too much of it. It adds no nutritional value and dramatically raises the calorie content of foods and beverages. These foods are quickly absorbed by the body, and are not a reliable source of energy. Other than leading to unhealthy weight gain, they can become the root cause of a variety of health issues in the long run, including, fatty liver, diabetes and heart problems.

So, What Changes In Our Body When We Quit Sugar

The effects go way beyond improvements to weight and blood glucose.

Slows Down The Skin’s Ageing Process

Overindulging in sugar may be hampering your efforts to achieve the desired radiant complexion. An increase in blood sugar levels can lead to a number of inflammatory skin conditions, including acne and sagging skin, by inducing an inflammatory response both internally and externally.

Lowered Risk of Heart Disease

According to research, sugar-filled beverages may raise your triglycerides, an unhealthy fat, and decrease your HDL (good) cholesterol, both of which are factors contributing in heart disease.

Fall In Appetite and Hunger

One important hormone that controls hunger is leptin. It provides instructions to the brain about when to eat, when to stop eating, and how to adjust metabolism. However, the body becomes more resistant to the signal that you are full when you have both obesity and insulin resistance. Restoring leptin activity in the body requires better glucose regulation, which can only be achieved by eliminating added sugars.

Weight Loss

Overindulgence in added sugars is a contributing factor to obesity and overweight. Added sugars have no unique effect on body weight, and it all boils down to too many calories. You may save hundreds of calories without consuming less food by substituting items like yogurt, breakfast cereal, and beverages that have added sugar for those that have little to no added sugar.

Decreased Risk of Diabetes

Reducing added sugars lowers your risk of diabetes by making it easier to control your weight and maintain blood glucose levels within safe ranges. If left unchecked, high blood sugar can potentially even raise your risk of kidney, nerve, and eye damage.

While entirely quitting sugar might sound like a tough one, you can slowly begin cutting down or replacing your favourite desserts with healthier versions or alternatives. One of the most important parts of the process is to plan your meals in advance so as to keep impulsive indulgences at bay. If you are ready to commit to this resolution for 2024, make sure to do it in a healthy manner, without depriving yourself of the necessary bits.

 

No more sugar crashes: How to sweeten your coffee naturally and boost your energy 

 

 

Advertisement

Copper Chimney opens first Delhi outpost, bringing Northwest Frontier flavors to the heart of the city

By
SnackTeam
-
0
Copper Chimney

Copper Chimney honors the rich journey and distinctive flavors of the Northwest Frontier, showcasing its iconic dishes in the heart of Delhi at its inaugural location in Rajouri Garden.

Striking a flawless blend of modernity and tradition, the interior design provides a nostalgic journey through time. The harmonious use of earthy tones evokes a sense of connection to the roots, while the familiar chime of the iconic ‘copper bells’ warmly greets you upon entering.

Infused with memories from the golden age of Indian cuisine, this esteemed Indian brand has been at the forefront of culinary innovation since Mr. JK Kapur envisioned it in 1972. With a commitment to warm hospitality and iconic recipes, Copper Chimney pays homage to the rich tapestry of Indian flavors. From its specially crafted tandoors to closely guarded spice blends handed down through three generations, every aspect reflects a dedication to the essence of Undivided India. Each dish is meticulously curated using hand-selected spices from exclusive farms and prepared with proprietary Indian culinary techniques perfected by the ‘Ustads’ over the years. Indulge in melt-in-your-mouth kababs marinated for over 12 hours and savor curries made from scratch, cooked fresh daily.

Speaking about the Copper Chimney expansion, Reetesh Shukla, VP Copper Chimney said “After five decades, with over 20 outlets spread across India, we are extremely excited to open our first Copper Chimney in Delhi. We aim to add more outlets across the city with the same determination that has fuelled our passion to serve unforgettable iconic dishes in our homeland Mumbai. Our commitment towards using the freshest ingredients with no compromise on the quality will remain the core.”

Advertisement

NutriLeads raises €4.5 Million to expand prebiotic ingredient ‘BeniCaros’ globally

By
SnackTeam
-
0
NutriLeads

NutriLeads has secured €4.5 million in a Series C investment round to advance the commercialization of its prebiotic ingredient, BeniCaros.

The funding round was spearheaded by DSM-Firmenich Venturing, an existing investor, and received backing from other current investors.

The funding will facilitate expansion into consumer markets and geographies, as well as the establishment of a global brand for the precision prebiotic fiber ingredient. This ingredient is specifically designed to improve gut and immune health.

Crafted from upcycled carrot pomace, BeniCaros is a low-dose ingredient that, according to the company, has been clinically proven to enhance innate immune responses, promoting smarter, faster, and stronger reactions. Additionally, it consistently contributes to the improvement of microbiota composition, fostering a more resilient gut ecosystem.

Wageningen-based NutriLeads has highlighted that the modest serving size of BeniCaros (starting as low as 300mg) and its appealing formulation profile offer a multitude of product innovation possibilities for companies in the food, beverage, and dietary supplement sectors.

Following the successful conclusion of Series C financing, the company has revealed a revamped board structure, now adopting a single-tier format.

The board consists of CEO Joana Carneiro, chair Alexander Belderok, Florentime Fockema Andreae, and two new members: Akshat Kshetrapal, an investment director at DSM-Firmenich Venturing, and Bibilotte Duyvesteyn, a specialist in the specialty nutrition value chain.

The founder of NutriLeads, Ruud Albers, will shift from his current position as chief scientific officer to assume the role of chair for NutriLeads’ recently formed Scientific Advisory Committee. This committee will offer guidance for NutriLeads’ research and development endeavors.

Carneiro commented, “The financing and board changes support the transition of NutriLeads into a fully commercial company with an emerging global brand of tremendous potential in the health ingredients market. Combined with the additional capital, NutriLeads is well positioned for strong sales growth and profitability.”

Advertisement

ADM to acquire leading dairy flavor manufacturer, Revela Foods

By
SnackTeam
-
0
ADM

ADM has reached an agreement to purchase Revela Foods, a U.S. dairy flavor manufacturer, for an undisclosed amount.

Specializing in clean-label dairy flavor formulations through enzyme technology, Revela is equipped with three production facilities in the US Midwest. With a workforce of around 400 employees, the company serves diverse applications, including snacks, frozen meals, sauces, dressings, soups, seasonings, and desserts.

Anticipated to reach sales of approximately $240 million in 2023, Revela’s acquisition will enhance ADM’s global dairy flavors sector and contribute to the expansion of capabilities in the savory flavors segment.

Calvin McEvoy, ADM’s president of global flavours, said, “Revela has built a strong business around its unique range of dairy flavour ingredients and solutions for customers spanning major brands, retailers and foodservice”.

“ADM has a strong presence in the North America savoury flavours segment, and we’re excited to work with the impressive Revela team to expand our opportunities there, bringing their technology and innovation together with our global capabilities to power our unparalleled range of ingredients and complete solutions for customers who are looking for great flavours and clean labels.”

Terry Schneider, Revela’s chief executive officer, commented, “We are excited to partner with ADM to further Revela’s reputation as an innovative, turnkey provider of dairy flavour ingredients and solutions. We believe joining the ADM family will allow us to offer even broader solutions to our customers and will provide our employees with even greater opportunities for advancement.”

Ian Pinner, president of ADM’s nutrition business, added, “ADM’s integrated business model and unparalleled production and product application expertise power a portfolio of customisable, complete nutrition solutions that no other company can match. Our flavours business is an important pillar of our Nutrition growth strategy, and we are continuing to add to our flavours pantry to ensure we remain the partner of choice for customers around the globe.”

The finalization of the acquisition is contingent upon meeting standard closing conditions and obtaining regulatory approvals.

ADM intends to finalize the transaction in the early months of 2024.

Advertisement

Lindt and ChoViva team up for special edition vegan chocolate bar

By
SnackTeam
-
0
Soft & Creamy Hazelnut

Lindt and ChoViva, a vegan chocolate brand, have collaborated to introduce a special edition chocolate bar in celebration of Veganuary.

ChoViva is the brainchild of foodtech start-up Planet A Foods, which developed its cocoa-free chocolate by fermenting oats and sunflower seeds.

Named “Soft & Creamy Hazelnut,” the bar highlights a delightful ChoViva hazelnut and oat crème filling paired with hazelnut and oat cookie pieces, all encased in Lindt’s classic Hello Vegan chocolate.

The new creation is the result of a collaboration between Planet A Foods and Lindt & Sprüngli. Sara Marquart, co-founder and CTO of Planet A Foods, said, “Lindt represents the highest chocolate craftsmanship and best taste, and it feels incredible to create such a great product with such a significant company”.

According to Planet A Foods, ChoViva is asserted to generate 90% fewer CO2 emissions per kilogram during manufacturing compared to conventional chocolate.

The release of the Lindt Hello Vegan Soft & Creamy Hazelnut bar is scheduled for a limited duration in January.

Advertisement

Nestlé tackles protein gap with affordable, plant-based Maggi Soya Chunks

By
SnackTeam
-
0
Maggi Soya Chunks

Expanding access to nutritious and sustainable food is more important than ever. Today, many people do not have access to an adequate and diverse diet that provides enough protein and micronutrients. With this in mind, Nestlé is actively exploring the use of plant-based ingredients to bring nutritious proteins to consumers in an affordable and sustainable way.

The company recently launched Maggi Soya Chunks, a tasty, affordable, plant-based meat alternative that enables consumers in Central and West Africa to add high-quality protein to their everyday food.

Crafted from soy, every pack supplies ample protein for up to eight individuals, offering lower costs in comparison to animal protein, along with reduced saturated fats and cholesterol. In an effort to tackle prevalent micronutrient deficiencies in the region, these packs are enriched with iron and zinc.

“We’re focused on using more plant-based ingredients as part of our efforts to deliver affordable, nutritious products that contribute to closing the protein gap that exists for many consumers. Our soya chunks are not only delicious but serve an excellent choice for families looking to enhance their daily diets with increased protein and essential micronutrients in an affordable way,” says Céline Worth, R&D program manager for Affordable Nutrition at Nestlé.

With a flavor, texture, and versatility closely resembling meat, the soya chunks serve as a flexible protein source suitable for various family meals, including rice dishes, stews, and spaghetti.

Available in a shelf-stable format, the product is accessible to a diverse range of consumers, including those in regions with a limited cold supply chain. When cooked, the chunks hydrate and acquire a flavorful, meat-like texture.

Shivani Hegde, global category lead for Affordable Nutrition, Food Strategic Business Unit at Nestlé added, “The launch of Maggi Soya Chunks is another key step in our endeavor to offer our consumers convenient, enjoyable and sustainable food solutions that are nutritious, accessible and affordable.”

Harnessing its worldwide presence and innovation expertise, Nestlé is strategically positioned to introduce innovative ideas for cost-effective nutrition. The company is actively researching products that blend the nutritional benefits of milk with plant-based ingredients, offering consumers the best of both realms. A recent illustration of this approach is the introduction of Nido Milk & Soya—a budget-friendly, nutritious instant powdered beverage crafted from a combination of milk and soy, rich in essential nutrients like protein, fiber, iron, and calcium.

Advertisement

Transform Your Eating Habits Using One Single Hack: Mindfulness

By
Aashi Goel
-
0
mindfulness

Our eating habits reflect not just our tastes but also our mental state and understanding of our bodies. Preferences can change, and what we enjoy today might not be the same tomorrow. Many people discuss the connection between food and mental health, but it seems more logical the other way around. When we’re fully tuned in to what our bodies need, how they react to different foods, and can distinguish true hunger from a craving induced by our minds, that’s when we can truly make mindful choices.

By exploring the transformative impact of incorporating mindfulness practices into our routines, we can enjoy a more conscious, enjoyable, and nourishing relationship with food.

What Is Mindfulness

Mindfulness offers us a pause—a moment to step away from the chaos and bring our attention to the present. Put plainly, it is about paying attention to the current moment— thoughts, feelings, how our body feels, and what’s around us—using a gentle and caring perspective. 

As we invite mindfulness into our daily routines, even just dedicating a few precious minutes, the impact on our well-being becomes increasingly evident. It’s more than a fleeting trend; it’s a lifestyle shift that goes beyond the boundaries of instant gains. The results of following this practice unfold in the form of a guide to making more informed decisions for our bodies. 

Mindfulness Meditation

When we integrate activities like meditation into our lives, we open a door to a heightened sensitivity to the present moment. Those unattended twinges and discomforts no longer stay dormant in the background; they come to the forefront, demanding acknowledgment and care. This newfound awareness, though sometimes uncomfortable, serves as a compass steering us toward a path of holistic health. Much the same way, we become more sensitive to the cues our body gives us with respect to hunger, thirst and cravings. 

How Does It Impact Our Eating Habits

By honing our ability to stay focused on the present, we cultivate a deeper connection with the process of cooking, planning, and ultimately, savouring our meals. The simple act of mindfully engaging in these daily rituals becomes a transformative journey towards a healthier and more conscious way of living. 

Think about the times you spend in the kitchen—usually, it’s a quick rush to get things done, ingredients put together in a hurry, and meals eaten without much thought. Mindfulness steps in and urges us to slow down, and be fully present in the culinary process. Suddenly, chopping vegetables turns into a calming rhythm, and the aroma of every spice and ingredient becomes a chance to explore our senses, going beyond just eating to feel fuller by the end of a meal. 

Breaking the Cycle

You know those moments when you find yourself munching on snacks without even realising it? Or when a bag of chips disappears in no time? Mindfulness acts like a superhero for our eating habits, shaking things up and breaking the autopilot mode we often slip into- the habit of eating without thinking. Mindfulness steps in and asks us to slow down and notice those cravings and emotional triggers without being too hard on ourselves. Ever had a late-night binge or snacked on something just because it was there? Mindfulness gives us the power to choose intentionally, making us aware of what and why we’re eating. It’s like putting the steering wheel back in our hands, so we decide where our eating habits go instead of letting them drive us.

Emotional Eating

Think of daily meditation as your buddy during stressful times, the usual suspect behind emotional eating. It’s like a shield, helping you handle stress by keeping your mind calm and centred. When life gets tough, mindfulness steps in like a superhero, giving you the strength to face stress with resilience.  

Instead of reaching for snacks impulsively when stress hits, mindfulness guides you to make thoughtful choices. It’s like having a reliable friend that prevents you from using food as a quick fix for stress, turning you into a stress-fighting champion.

Mindful Eating Practices

When we eat mindfully, each bite becomes a chance to enjoy the textures, flavours, and goodness in our meals. It’s not about restrictive diets but appreciating the richness in every moment our plates offer. Mindfulness transforms meals from just eating to a thoughtful celebration of what sustains us—a perfect mix of nourishment of the body and the soul.

In our busy lives today, adding a bit of mindfulness can really change how we eat. Just by taking up a mindful practice like daily meditation, we can discover how powerful it is for our connection with food. It turns our everyday meals into thoughtful moments of nourishment, creating a healthier and more aware way of eating.

Why Top CEOs Swear By Mindful Eating for Maximum Productivity and Success!

 

Advertisement

McDonald’s India teams up with Mondelez for exclusive Cadbury Gems dessert range

By
SnackTeam
-
0
McFlurry with Gems

McDonald’s India (West and South) has partnered with Mondelez to introduce a range of desserts.

McDonald’s presents an exclusive menu featuring Cadbury Gems. The fresh additions comprise McFlurry with Gems, Sundae with Gems, and Chocolate and Strawberry Shakes adorned with these iconic treats.

During this limited-time partnership, McDonald’s combines its expertise in creating delightful and convenient delicacies with Mondelez’s beloved Gems, a brand that has deeply connected with Indian consumers for decades.

“We are excited to partner with Mondelez to bring these innovative and playful treats to our desserts-loving fans. Gems have been a childhood favorite for many Indians, and we believe this collaboration will create a delightful experience for all. With this unique and playful twist to our iconic McFlurry and other desserts, we are set to provide our customers an enjoyable treat that will not only satisfy their sweet tooth but also offer novelty,” said Arvind R.P., CMO, McDonald’s India (W&S).

The McFlurry with Gems and Sundae with Gems showcase a creamy vanilla soft-serve base, complemented by a chocolate dip and hot fudge sauce, respectively, and topped off with a generous sprinkling of Gems. Meanwhile, the Strawberry Shake and Chocolate Shake with Gems achieve a perfect balance between creamy smoothness and crunchy delight.

“We are thrilled to unveil a symphony of flavors with exclusive Cadbury Gems-Topped Desserts with McDonald’s India. This collaboration brings together the iconic Cadbury Gems and McDonald’s expertise in crafting delightful treats, promising a delectable experience for dessert enthusiasts. We are excited to contribute to the sweet memories and moments that these treats will undoubtedly create for them,” said Nitin Saini, VP- Marketing, Mondelez India.

The limited-time offerings include the McFlurry with Gems, Chocolate Shake with Gems, Strawberry Shake with Gems, and Sundae with Gems.

These items will be available through McDelivery, takeaway, on-the-go options, dine-in, and Drive-Thru at McDonald’s locations across West and South India.

Advertisement
1...712713714...1,396Page 713 of 1,396