How Crunch & Munch is shaping a healthier future with tasty and nutritious snacks

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September 23, 2023

When it comes to snacking, most of us envision bags of chips, candy bars, and indulgent treats that often leave us feeling guilty and unsatisfied. But what if there was a brand that could change the way we think about snacks? Meet Crunch & Munch, a trailblazing snack brand hailing from the vibrant city of Kolkata, on a mission to revolutionize the world of snacking by making it healthier, more inclusive, and undeniably delicious.

Snacking Redefined: A Healthier Joy

Crunch & Munch is more than just a snack brand; it’s a philosophy. It’s the belief that snacking should be a joyful experience, a moment of pure delight, and a chance to savor the flavors of life. But it’s also a belief that health-conscious choices shouldn’t mean sacrificing flavor or settling for bland options. Founded by Siddhant Digvijay Jaitha, a man who knows a thing or two about taking on challenges given his background as one of India’s largest importers in Aircraft & Aircraft Spares, this brand was born out of a personal journey to reverse Type 2 Diabetes and to offer an enticing alternative to junk snacks.

**Siddhant Digvijay Jaitha, Founder, Crunch & Munch**

What sets Crunch & Munch apart is its commitment to inclusivity. It caters to everyone, from school children in need of a nutritious treat to adults seeking convenient and health-conscious snacks. Expectant mothers, elderly individuals, and even travellers looking for a flavorful companion on their journeys can find solace in Crunch & Munch’s diverse product range.

A Snack for Every Palate: Roasted Range and Pure Pleasure

At Crunch & Munch, they offer two exciting ranges of snacks: the Roasted Range and a range designed purely for enjoyment. These options cater to diverse taste preferences and dietary needs, ensuring there’s something for everyone. If you savor the satisfying crunch of roasted snacks, they have you covered. And if you prefer the delightful indulgence of their pleasure range, there’s something to tempt your taste buds too.

Take their Quinoas, for example. Available in flavors like Chilli Lime, Wasabi, and Peri Peri, these vibrant snacks are perfect for those seeking a zesty and invigorating experience. If you’re in the mood for something that celebrates the goodness of vegetables, their Veggie Chips are a must-try, crafted from a medley of three different vegetables.

For those who relish diverse flavors, Crunch & Munch’s Bhujia stands out. It’s a harmonious fusion of five distinct flavors in one delectable snack, promising a taste journey like no other. With approximately 30 unique SKUs, each Crunch & Munch product offers a unique snacking experience, ensuring that every time you reach for a snack, you’re in for a delightful surprise.

A Vision for a Healthier Tomorrow

Crunch & Munch isn’t just a snack brand; it’s a testament to the belief that health-conscious snacking should never be bland or uninspiring. It’s about savoring the deliciousness of life while making informed choices. The brand’s mission is clear: to transform the way people perceive and consume snacks, promoting a healthier and more wholesome lifestyle. So, the next time you reach for a snack, consider making it a Crunch & Munch experience, where health and flavor coexist in perfect harmony. After all, snacking should be a delightful journey, and Crunch & Munch is your ticket to that wholesome adventure.

One aspect that truly sets Crunch & Munch apart is its love for local flavors. They carefully blend Indian spices to create snacks that celebrate the rich tapestry of our culinary heritage. Crunch & Munch reminds us that health and taste should always go hand in hand.

A Journey of Growth and Resilience

Crunch & Munch’s Founder, Siddhant Digvijay Jaitha, started this journey with a belief in the power of healthy snacking to combat lifestyle-related diseases. With determination, they have grown from a modest beginning to an online presence spanning six cities. Their products are accessible through platforms like Amazon, Kurabels, ModernBazaar, and their own website.

Their success story is a testament to their commitment to steady expansion, embracing opportunities as they arise, and staying ahead of the curve. Even the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic led them to innovate and adapt, transitioning from an offline model to building a robust online presence.

A Vision for a Healthier World

Crunch & Munch’s vision goes beyond business growth. They aspire to be leaders in the healthy snacking segment, inspiring customers to swap out unhealthy snacking habits for nourishing ones. It’s a vision that resonates with consumers looking for healthier alternatives and a more wholesome lifestyle.

In a world where health-consciousness is on the rise, Crunch & Munch stands as a shining example of how snacking can be both a pleasure and a positive choice for your well-being. So, the next time someone says that ‘healthy food is boring,’ share a Crunch & Munch snack with them and prove that health and taste can always go hand in hand.

Starbucks and Disney unite to stir up nostalgia with exclusive merchandise line in India

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September 22, 2023

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Starbucks has joined forces with The Walt Disney Company Southeast Asia to create a unique Starbucks Experience. This collaboration brings forth an exciting assortment of Disney-inspired merchandise, carefully designed to stir up cherished memories and evoke universal nostalgia across all generations.

The “Relive the Magic Together” series by Starbucks showcases adored Disney characters such as Mickey and Friends, Chip ‘n Dale, and Dumbo.

This Starbucks exclusive merchandise line displays delightful character artwork with a hint of nostalgic charm.

Starting from September 19th and for a limited time, this nostalgic collection will be accessible in select Indian stores.

“Starbucks carries a global legacy of celebrating humanity, nurturing creativity, and spreading joy. Over a decade ago, Tata Starbucks ventured into the Indian market with the commitment to curate unique experiences that transcend the simple act of enjoying a cup of coffee, fostering connections that last a lifetime.” said, Sushant Dash, CEO, TATA Starbucks.

The “Relive the Magic Together” merchandise collection by Starbucks encompasses a wide array of 12 unique drinkware designs.

This lineup includes a variety of mugs, cold cups, and tumblers, designed for those who want to enjoy their favorite Starbucks beverages, whether it’s at the office or the coziness of their own home.

Every piece in this collection displays charming Disney-inspired artwork infused with the distinctive Starbucks flair.

This themed collection, with prices starting at INR 2050, will be available at select Starbucks® stores across India.

Agritech startup Ergos secures $10 Million in Series B funding for grain storage innovation

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September 22, 2023

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Agritech startup Ergos secured $10 million in its Series B funding round, raising capital through a combination of equity and debt. The round was spearheaded by Abler Nordic, a Norway-based firm, and featured participation from previous backers like Aavishkaar Capital, Chiratae Ventures, and the Trifecta Venture Debt Fund.

Established in 2012 by Kishor Kumar Jha and Praveen Kumar, Ergos has pioneered a transformation in grain storage. The company empowers farmers to convert their agricultural produce into digital assets that can be readily traded. This innovative approach enables farmers to leverage optimal selling opportunities following the harvest season.

Furthermore, the agritech startup links farmers with potential buyers, offers secure warehousing for grains, and collaborates with lenders to provide cost-effective financial solutions.

It provides farmers with a nine-month storage option for their harvest and extends credit for as much as 70% of the stored grains.

Presently, Ergos aids more than 160,000 farmers through its platform, boasting a vast Grainbank network of farm-gate warehouses in over 200 locations across Bihar, Karnataka, and Maharashtra. Over the years, the firm has assisted farmers in boosting their annual income by 30-35%.

In 2021, Ergos raised INR 81 crore in its Series A funding round with participation from CDC Group, Aavishkaar Capital, and Chiratae Ventures.

India boasts a thriving agritech ecosystem with more than 1,000 startups, amassing a total funding of over $2 billion since 2014. A MarketsAndMarkets study projects that the agritech market is poised to reach $25.4 billion by 2028, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.4%.

Recently, another agritech startup, Leads Connect, secured INR 500 crore in funding from BL Agro Industries. This substantial investment aims to bolster its technological infrastructure and expand research efforts in deep technology and artificial intelligence/machine learning domains.

In June, NABVENTURES, an agritech investor backed by NABARD, allocated INR 10 crore in funding to Satyukt Analytics. This investment is aimed at enhancing Satyukt’s Sat2farm app, which provides farmers with data-driven insights, empowering them with valuable information.

KFC India unveils special buckets to celebrate International Day of Sign Languages

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September 22, 2023

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KFC India, the renowned quick-service restaurant chain, is embarking on a transformation of its iconic buckets by incorporating sign language designs in all of its Indian restaurants, commencing this week. This initiative is in anticipation of the International Day of Sign Languages and aims to foster awareness for the Indian sign language.

The bucket showcases easy-to-follow visual tutorials of frequently used words and phrases, empowering customers to acquire proficiency in Indian sign language.

In a statement, the quick-service restaurant (QSR) chain announced that the buckets will incorporate Indian Sign Language (ISL). They will include commonly used words and phrases like ‘hello,’ ‘please,’ ‘what’s up?,’ as well as numbers and sizes. These specially designed buckets will be available in stores for a duration of one month.

The sign language bucket and the #SpeakSign campaign are integral components of KFC India’s Kshamata initiative, which is designed to address gender and ability disparities, as stated by the company.

Aparna Bhawal, chief marketing officer at KFC India and partner countries, said, “We are committed to enhancing inclusivity for the hearing and speech impaired. We took sign language to our most distinctive brand asset – the bucket.”

KFC, a brand under Yum! Brands, has announced the introduction of a sign language menu in select KFC restaurants where employees are speech and hearing-impaired. On September 23, all these unique establishments throughout India will embrace a silent atmosphere, with instructional videos available on KFC India’s Instagram account, the restaurant chain has confirmed.

“Efforts are under way to double the footprint of Special KFCs in India by 2024,” the company added.

Blah! marks two-year milestone with new menu and future expansion plans

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September 22, 2023

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Blah!, a renowned brunch cafe and bar nestled in the heart of Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC), is excited to celebrate its two-year anniversary this weekend. A brainchild of the visionary entrepreneur Niketa P. Sharma, Blah! has redefined casual dining and brunch culture in Mumbai, offering a unique blend of art, food, and ambiance.

Bringing alive the idea of joyful conversations, endless mimosas, and juicy gossip, Blah! has transformed into a sanctuary where meaningful memories are crafted. This all-day eatery offers a tantalizing selection of brunch-inspired dishes that seamlessly merge the worlds of culinary art and delectable cuisine. It’s all done with the intention of capturing the essence of the cuisine and the vibrant spirit of the area. Founded by visionary entrepreneur Niketa P. Sharma, Blah! has truly redefined the brunch culture in Mumbai.

Located amidst the striking glass architecture and skyscrapers of BKC, Blah! offers a tranquil retreat amid the sprawling, meticulously landscaped grounds of Jio Garden. This venue boasts an inviting, botanically-inspired atmosphere, complete with abundant greenery, artful foliage, and thoughtfully crafted furniture featuring exquisite cane weaving and warm wooden elements. Bathed in natural sunlight, the restaurant’s white-washed interior creates a vibrant and welcoming environment.

Niketa Sharma, Founder of Blah!, said, “Blah! is an amalgamation of a casual and classic mood. You can start your day on a leisurely note, set up your own work and wine mood, enjoy the community tables, and end with some fantastic cocktails by night. We are here to change the concept of brunch and casual dining, and give it our own classic twist.” Blah!’s sprawling 3000-square-foot area is divided into multiple pockets for group and private dining, with surprising additions of flirty swings that promise a laid-back mood. It also houses an artisanal cocktail bar, adhering to the philosophy of “Garden To Glass.”

Blah! in BKC is gearing up to celebrate its two-year anniversary this weekend, perfectly timed with the recent introduction of an inventive new menu. This dynamic menu has pushed culinary boundaries with its innovative fusions, such as the Mexican Mango Avocado Sushi Roll and the Smoke Chicken Dimsum in Ramen Broth. Additionally, they’ve curated a diverse selection of croissants, encompassing both sweet and savory choices like Baklava and Black Forest.

Moreover, Blah! went the extra mile to cater to health-conscious patrons by introducing a lineup of sugar-free cocktails. These include the “Harvest Moon,” featuring vetiver-infused gin and eco-conscious ingredients, the “Italian Affair” which combines coconut oil fat-washed vodka, and the “Ruby Roots,” a unique creation infused with beetroot and rose petals. This blend of culinary and mixology innovation truly distinguishes Blah! and ensures a delightful and diverse dining experience for its guests during the anniversary celebrations.

As part of her expansion strategy for Blah!, she envisions the launch of new branches in prominent cities like Mumbai, Gurugram, and Bangalore in the near future. Alongside expanding Blah!, she has ambitious plans for the growth of her business through Magna and Vivi Italian Bar & Kitchen, aiming to reach a broader audience. Additionally, she’s gearing up to introduce a fresh culinary venture, a South Indian restaurant, which will add a distinctive flavor and experience to her expanding portfolio. With these strategic initiatives, her goal is to tap into diverse markets and provide exceptional dining options to discerning customers in various locations.

Niketa’s steadfast passion for the hospitality industry has been the driving force behind her vision to establish a plethora of restaurants and cafes on a national scale. Her ultimate aspiration is to propel her brand onto the international stage, crafting a distinguished fine dining restaurant that achieves global acclaim.

Health-conscious snack producer LesserEvil receives substantial investment from Aria Growth Partners

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September 22, 2023

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LesserEvil popcorn (Representative Image)

LesserEvil, a prominent organic popcorn manufacturer based in the United States, has successfully secured a significant minority investment from private-equity firm Aria Growth Partners as part of their recent funding round.

The specific percentage of the ownership stake transferred to the investor from New York, as well as the total funding amount raised by the health-conscious snack producer, were not disclosed.

LesserEvil, headquartered in Connecticut, announced that additional participants in the funding round included its current investors, namely Valor Equity, Invest Eco, and Touch Capital. The proceeds from this funding will be earmarked for the expansion of manufacturing capabilities and the enhancement of retail distribution channels, as stated by the company, which was founded in 2005.

The popcorn and paleo puff snacks from LesserEvil are available in various US retailers including Target, Walmart, and Whole Foods Market. The company runs two manufacturing facilities located in Connecticut, specifically in New Milford and Danbury.

Additionally, their product lineup includes grain-free organic puffs, as well as snacks like Sun Poppers, Space Balls, Cosmic Rings, and Lil’ Puffs.

LesserEvil asserted that its snack offerings are characterized as “health-conscious, minimally processed, and environmentally sustainable,” although no specific details were provided to substantiate these claims.

CEO Charles Coristine said, “We’re excited to have an experienced new partner like Aria join us as we embark on this next phase of accelerated development and take the LesserEvil brand to new heights.

“Our ability to self-manufacture gives us tremendous upside to continue delivering the innovation and better-for-you snacks that consumers crave.”

Aria Growth partner Trevor Nelson said, “We know how hard it is to build such a high-growth and highly profitable, mainstream food brand. It’s a testament to their ingenuity and discipline that they’ve been able to create a beloved brand and a first-rate business as well.”

Menswear brand Arrow appoints Anand Aiyer as the new CEO

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September 22, 2023

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Arrow, the American menswear brand, announced the appointment of Anand Aiyer as its new CEO in a press release issued on Thursday.

“I am excited to assume the role of chief executive officer, at Arrow, a brand that has consistently embodied the essence of refinement and sophistication across generations. I eagerly anticipate the opportunity to collaborate with the exceptionally talented Arrow team, collectively forging ahead to enrich our legacy and introduce captivating innovations that will delight our cherished customers,” said Aiyer.

With more than 24 years of expertise in the fashion and retail industry, Aiyer’s leadership heralds a new era of expansion and ingenuity for the brand.

Established in 1851 in Chicago by William H. Titus and his partner, Arrow continues to be a registered trademark under Cluett, Peabody & Co., a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Phillips-Van Heusen Corporation today.

In 1993, Arrow made its foray into the Indian market through a partnership with the textile company Arvind Fashions Ltd. Three decades later, having catered to the clothing needs of Indian men, the brand boasts approximately 200 exclusive brand stores and enjoys a presence in over 1,000 multi-brand outlets across the nation.

Karang Foodie acquires INSEACT, expanding reach in sustainable protein industry

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September 22, 2023

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INSEACT Co-Founders Tim van Vliet (L) and Michael Badeski

Karang Foodie, a local company based in Singapore, has completed an all-cash acquisition of INSEACT, the alternative protein company.

While other aspects of the transaction remain confidential, INSEACT Co-Founder Tim van Vliet has noted that this deal offers an exit strategy for both him and his Co-Founder, Michael Badeski. Simultaneously, Karang can leverage its pre-existing infrastructure, intellectual property, and customer base to propel its own expansion.

“Karang Foodie has a vision to support the alternative protein ecosystem whilst removing food waste in Southeast Asia. The acquisition of INSEACT will see Karang taking over the facility and using what INSEACT has developed to allow it to pursue its longer-term goal of combining synergies between the production of multiple insect species in Singapore. In the shorter term, Karang will be studying how different food waste sources may impact the output of BSF, translating to potential food sources for other species that will raise the value of the operations,” stated Vliet.

Vliet further explained that INSEACT had the opportunity to secure Series A funding, but the terms presented in the offer would have resulted in substantial dilution for the company.

“We preferred to sell the business than to take on the dilution.”

Both Co-Founders, Vliet and Badeski, have left INSEACT, while some employees have chosen to stay. Vliet has taken on the role of Vice President (Venture Scale) at Engie’s corporate venture-building division.

INSEACT specializes in the production of sustainable insect protein tailored for aquaculture, with an initial focus on shrimp feed. The company utilizes waste materials from palm oil operations as a primary resource to nourish the insects. This innovative approach establishes a complete circular economy by diverting waste from palm oil production away from environmentally harmful landfills and directing it to be bioconverted by black soldier flies (BSF).

The process yields three distinct products: XFprotein, a nutrient-rich animal feed ingredient derived from dried and ground black soldier fly larvae; XFoil, a purified insect oil extracted from the cultivated black soldier fly larvae; and XFfrass, a by-product resulting from the composting of black soldier fly larvae.

These protein products serve as feedstock for shrimp and fish, diminishing the dependency on wild-caught fish as the primary protein component in aquaculture feed.

The startup asserts that its operations have a carbon-negative footprint and generate zero waste.

INSEACT has established and currently manages a cutting-edge insect production and research facility located in Singapore, where the fields of biology and engineering have been seamlessly integrated and advanced.

In the year 2021, INSEACT secured an oversubscribed seed funding round, amassing a total of US$1.3 million in investment from a diverse group of backers, among them ADB Ventures, Loyal VC (Canada), and INSEAD Asia Angels Club.

Established in June of this year by Stephanie Kudus and George Foo, Karang Foodie is a company specializing in treatment and waste disposal solutions.

Kyochon F&B tests robot delivery service in collaboration with Neubility

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September 22, 2023

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Kyochon F&B, a prominent South Korean food company renowned for its flagship Kyochon Chicken brand, is currently conducting a trial of a robot delivery service in collaboration with the autonomous driving robot company Neubility. This trial will continue until October 30.

The pilot program is primarily centered on delivering orders from Kyochon Chicken’s Konkuk University branch to destinations within the Konkuk University campus, employing Neubility’s autonomous robot known as “neubie.”

This robotic system, assessed for its cost-effectiveness and operational performance based on camera technology, provides reliable navigation and advanced cognitive capabilities at an affordable price.

Customers can submit their orders through “neubie order,” a dedicated B2C delivery platform connected to the KakaoTalk channel known as “neubie order Konkuk University campus.” This system enables customers to precisely specify their desired delivery points within the university premises.

The robot independently gathers the orders from the Kyochon Chicken outlet and transports them to the specified destinations.

Kyochon F&B is currently exploring the feasibility of incorporating autonomous robots into its franchise operations, with the goal of achieving significant operational improvements by reducing labor costs and addressing challenges related to the shortage of delivery personnel.

“Autonomous delivery robots can significantly boost operational efficiency and offer a unique customer experience,” a company source remarked, emphasizing the proactive approach in preparing for the forthcoming autonomous delivery era through pre-commercialization trials.

In addition to deploying delivery robots, Kyochon is at the forefront of innovation in IT services by introducing collaborative cooking robots and drone-based deliveries.

Following its partnership with the specialist firm ‘Neuromeka,’ the company conducted experiments with the cooking robot at various sites, including Namyangju in Gyeonggi Province.

Additionally, through a collaboration with ‘Pablo Air,’ Kyochon has introduced smart logistics delivery services utilizing drones in Gapyeong, Gyeonggi Province, further expanding the range of IT-based solutions within Kyochon’s offerings.

Café Noir sets Mumbai buzzing with the launch of its new Coffee and Cookies Menu

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September 22, 2023

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Café Noir, renowned for its enchanting ambiance and delightful French-inspired cuisine, is thrilled to introduce its new Coffee and Cookies Menu at its captivating setting in the iconic One Lodha World Centre, Lower Parel. Nestled in the vibrant core of Mumbai, Café Noir warmly welcomes guests to embrace the Parisian cafe allure and savor an unforgettable dining escapade, transporting them to the quaint cobblestone streets of France.

Café Noir’s intimate and cozy setting provides the perfect backdrop for romantic evenings, leisurely brunch dates, or gatherings with friends. Guests can bask in the inviting atmosphere both indoors and outdoors, thanks to the alfresco seating that allows them to enjoy their culinary journey beneath the starry Mumbai skies.

The café is thrilled to introduce a tantalizing new range of artisanal coffee creations for coffee aficionados. The menu boasts a diverse and aromatic selection, including the indulgent Chocolate Cappuccino, a harmonious blend of espresso, chocolate sauce, steamed milk, and whipped cream, as well as the Noir-styled Spiced Coffee, an aromatic espresso infused with Cafe Noir’s homemade spices and steamed milk. For those seeking something unique, there’s Boba Coffee, a tempting fusion of espresso and condensed milk, complete with delightful boba pearls. The classics are not forgotten with options like Vienna Coffee, a traditional black coffee crowned with velvety whipped cream. Additionally, there’s Baileys’ Parisian Latte, an elegant creation featuring espresso, condensed milk, steamed milk, and the distinctive touch of Baileys’, as well as Espresso Tonic, a refreshing blend of espresso, orange juice, and tonic water. For a truly indulgent experience, try the Baileys Affogato, an exquisite dessert-like treat with a single shot of espresso poured over creamy vanilla ice cream and infused with Baileys.

In addition to these exceptional coffee concoctions, Café Noir presents a delightful selection of cookies to enhance your dining experience. Take your pick from an assortment that includes Walnut and Chocolate Chip, Red Velvet, Whole Wheat Butter Chocolate, and Ragi Oats & Raisins cookies. These delectable treats are the ideal accompaniment to elevate your culinary journey to unparalleled heights.

Café Noir cordially invites all guests to embark on a gastronomic adventure that embraces the spirit of the monsoon season while celebrating the artistry of coffee craftsmanship. With an enduring dedication to delivering a delightful culinary journey, Café Noir guarantees that each visit is a captivating encounter with French sophistication and flavors.

NewsHub

Snacking Redefined: A Healthier Joy

A Snack for Every Palate: Roasted Range and Pure Pleasure

A Vision for a Healthier Tomorrow

A Journey of Growth and Resilience

A Vision for a Healthier World