Food
Food sector has huge growth potential in eastern India, say industry leaders
Industry leaders at International Kolkata Foodtech 2025 highlighted the significant growth potential of the food industry in eastern India, despite existing challenges. While the region excels in bakery products, it lags in ice cream consumption, representing only 15% of the national total.
Ahead of festivals, dry fruit prices drive consumers nuts
India's dry fruit market is facing a downturn due to global disruptions, GST concerns, and import uncertainties. Importers are delaying shipments, fearing tariff changes and a potential GST hike to 18%, impacting sales by 25%. Prices of almonds and walnuts have surged, with walnuts jumping to ₹700 per kg.
Packaged food cos turn up the heat with spices
India is experiencing a surge in demand for spicy and chilli-flavored foods, prompting major brands like Nestle, McDonald's, and PepsiCo to introduce spicier variants of their products. This "spice revolution" is driven by Gen Z and millennials seeking bolder and more adventurous flavors.
Reliance Consumer in talks to acquire majority stake in Baidyanath’s Shunya drinks brand
Reliance Consumer Products may acquire a majority stake in Baidyanath Group's Shunya. This move allows Reliance to enter the zero-sugar beverage market. The deal marks Reliance's fourth beverage acquisition. It follows Campa, Sosyo, and RasKik. Reliance aims to capitalize on the rising demand for healthy drinks. The company plans to invest heavily in beverage capacity expansion.
Nutella gets ‘well-known trademark’ status in India: Delhi High Court rules in Ferrero’s favour
The Delhi High Court has recognized Nutella as a well-known trademark in India. This decision acknowledges Nutella's global reputation and long-standing presence. The court also addressed the issue of counterfeit Nutella products. It permanently restrained M.B. Enterprises from manufacturing or selling fake Nutella. The company was also directed to pay damages to Ferrero and contribute to a welfare fund.
SEA urges CCPA, FSSAI to take action against 'misleading' social media claims on refined oils
The Solvent Extractors' Association has requested CCPA and FSSAI to act against misleading information about refined edible oils on social media. SEA addressed a viral video with false claims. The association clarified that refined oils are safe and processed under FSSAI norms. They emphasized the importance of accurate information to maintain consumer confidence and protect the agri-economy.
Bikaji Foods forms joint venture with Nepal’s Chaudhary Group
Bikaji Foods International partners with Chaudhary Group for global growth. The 50:50 joint venture aims to manufacture and market Bikaji's products. Both companies will invest in a new facility in Nepal. This collaboration seeks to boost Nepal's food sector. The Indian snacks market is experiencing rapid growth. Other players like Haldiram are also expanding their global presence.
Lotte India debuts biscuit snack PEPERO, eyes Rs 2,000 crore revenue in 2025
Lotte India, a part of Lotte Group, introduces PEPERO biscuit snacks in India. PEPERO is available in original and crunchy flavors. The company aims to achieve Rs 2,000 crore in revenue this year. Lotte targets Gen Z consumers with this launch. The company plans to export PEPERO from India to the Middle East and Far East.
No need for wheat open market sale as supplies comfortable, prices stable: Food Secretary
Food Secretary Sanjeev Chopra stated that there's no immediate requirement to sell wheat from government reserves through the Open Market Sale Scheme (OMSS). He cited sufficient supplies and stable prices as the primary reasons, highlighting a healthy procurement volume. India's wheat production is estimated at a record 117.5 million tonnes in the 2024-25 crop year.
Hershey to raise chocolate prices as cocoa costs remain high
Hershey, the maker of Reese's Peanut Butter Cups, has informed retailers about an upcoming price increase. The price increase will be across its confection portfolio. This decision is due to the rising costs of cocoa. Cocoa prices have seen a sharp increase in recent times. The company had been working to absorb high input costs.
Must Watch
Geopolitical conflict, early monsoon impacted Q2 volumes in India: Coca-Cola global chief Quincey
Coca-Cola experienced a decline in unit case volume growth in India during the April-June quarter due to early monsoons and geopolitical conflict. The Asia Pacific region also saw a decrease, primarily driven by India's performance and bottling operation refranchising.
Majority Indian consumers now prefer preservative-free snacks: Farmley
Farmley's Healthy Snacking Report 2025 reveals that 55% of Indian consumers now prioritize preservative-free snacks, with 52% favoring eco-conscious packaging. Snacking habits are evolving due to lifestyle changes, as 45% prefer on-the-go formats. Brand loyalty is diversifying, with quick commerce and influencers driving impulse snacking, particularly among younger generations.
Ashok Chaudhary new chairman of Amul brand operator GCMMF
Ashok Chaudhary has been elected unopposed as the chairman of Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation (GCMMF), known for its Amul brand. Gordhan Dhameliya was also elected unopposed as the vice chairman. The election was held as the previous office-bearers' tenure concluded, with Chaudhary aiming to foster growth for the federation's 36 lakh associated dairy farmers.
Kiko Live launches Tabe: India's first food-only buyer app on ONDC for affordable delivery
Kiko Live introduces Tabe, a new food ordering app on ONDC. Tabe focuses solely on food and beverages. It aims to offer affordability and transparency. The app lists brands like McDonald’s and KFC. Restaurants can save on commissions. Customers may get discounts. Tabe seeks to improve food accessibility. It also wants to provide a better experience for users and restaurants.
Investors hungry for stakes in India’s food and beverages sector
India's food and beverage sector is witnessing significant investor interest, with deals and discussions intensifying across QSRs and packaged food brands. Despite a consumption slowdown, established names like Theobroma and fast-growing players are attracting attention. Investors are keen on both established and emerging brands, anticipating growth driven by rising disposable incomes and evolving consumer preferences.
Graviss chairman moves high court over family settlement feud
Gaurav Ghai, chairman of Graviss Group, has petitioned the Bombay High Court against his father, Ravi Ghai, seeking arbitration over a family settlement agreement. The dispute centers on Graviss Hospitality (GHL), particularly Ravi Ghai's attempt to monetize shares initially valued at ₹25 crore but now worth ₹100 crore.
