Blinkit Faces Maharashtra FDA Action as 18,405 Expired Food Items Are Detected

The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has suspended the food business licence of Blinkit’s Bhiwandi facility after inspectors allegedly found major lapses in the handling and disposal of expired, damaged and rejected food products. The action follows an inspection that uncovered 18,405 food items worth more than ₹32.71 lakh for which the company could not provide adequate traceability records or proof of destruction.

What Triggered the FDA Action?

According to Maharashtra FDA officials, an inspection conducted on 21 October at Blinkit's warehouse facility in Bhiwandi, Maharashtra, revealed that the company was unable to provide end-to-end traceability and documentation showing the disposal of approximately 18,405 expired, damaged or rejected food products valued at more than ₹32.71 lakh.

Regulators stated that the absence of proper records raised concerns about whether the inventory had been safely destroyed as required under food safety regulations. As a result, the FDA ordered the immediate suspension of licensed food operations at the premises.

Public Health Concerns at the Centre

The FDA said its primary concern was the possibility that food items classified as unsaleable could potentially re-enter the consumer market. Officials argued that expired or damaged products pose a direct risk to public health if they are diverted back into commercial channels instead of being scientifically destroyed.

The regulator described the situation as a serious compliance failure because businesses handling food products are required to maintain complete records regarding the storage, movement and destruction of non-saleable inventory.

FIR Filed Against Executives and Vendors

The matter has gone beyond regulatory action and entered the criminal investigation stage.

Following the licence suspension, the Maharashtra FDA registered an FIR at Bhiwandi Taluka Police Station against key Blinkit personnel, including a whole-time director, facility managers and several scrap-disposal vendors.

The accused have reportedly been booked under provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, including sections related to cheating and criminal conspiracy, along with Section 59(i) of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. Authorities have alleged a conspiracy involving the possible resale of expired food products for financial gain. These allegations remain under investigation, and the filing of an FIR does not establish guilt.

Why Bhiwandi Matters

The development is significant because Bhiwandi is one of India's largest warehousing and logistics hubs, serving e-commerce companies, retailers and quick-commerce platforms. The region houses large fulfilment centres that support rapid delivery operations across Mumbai and neighbouring markets.

Any disruption in operations at a major warehouse can have implications for inventory management and supply-chain processes, particularly in the fast-growing quick-commerce industry where speed and inventory turnover are critical.

Part of a Wider FDA Crackdown

The action against Blinkit appears to be part of a broader enforcement drive by the Maharashtra FDA under Food and Drug Administration Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe. The regulator has recently intensified inspections of warehouses, dark stores and waste-disposal networks amid concerns that expired or rejected food products may be finding their way back into retail channels.

Authorities have conducted multiple raids targeting suspected diversion networks and have reportedly booked several individuals connected to food companies, disposal agencies and local traders in related investigations.

A Fresh Setback for Blinkit

The latest suspension comes just months after another FDA action involving a Blinkit facility in Mumbai's Malad area, where inspectors reported hygiene and food-safety violations, including the presence of expired products and poor storage conditions.

While the Bhiwandi case centres on inventory traceability and disposal records rather than hygiene issues, both incidents underscore increasing regulatory scrutiny of quick-commerce operators that handle large volumes of food products.

Industry-Wide Implications

The Maharashtra FDA's action signals a tougher regulatory stance toward food inventory management across the e-commerce and quick-commerce ecosystem. The case highlights the growing importance of:

• Maintaining complete traceability of food products.
• Proper destruction of expired and damaged inventory.
• Robust record-keeping and compliance systems.
• Preventing unsaleable food stock from re-entering the market.
• Strengthening oversight of third-party disposal vendors.

As investigations continue, regulators are expected to closely monitor how food businesses manage expired inventory and comply with food safety norms.

Conclusion

The suspension of Blinkit's Bhiwandi food licence marks one of the most significant enforcement actions taken by the Maharashtra FDA against a quick-commerce operator in recent months. With 18,405 food items worth ₹32.71 lakh at the centre of the case, and an FIR now lodged against company personnel and vendors, the investigation could become a defining test of inventory traceability and food-safety compliance standards within India's rapidly expanding quick-commerce sector.

Arma Capital Invests ₹10 Crore Across EBG Group’s Wellness, Food and Family Businesses

The firm invests in three Carlton Wellness Centres and enters franchise partnerships with NATUF Café, Adhira & Appa Café and Chhota Bheem Family Café as part of a growing multi-brand relationship.

Maharashtra-based Arma Capital has invested ₹10 crore across EBG Group’s wellness, food and family businesses, marking its entry into multiple consumer-facing brands under the Hyderabad-headquartered business group. The investment includes Carlton Wellness Centres in Mumbai, Bengaluru and Chandigarh, along with franchise partnerships for NATUF Café, Adhira & Appa Café and Chhota Bheem Family Café in Hyderabad.

Before its association with EBG Group, Arma Capital’s investment portfolio spanned consumer brands, hospitality and lifestyle-led experiences. Its investment in EBG Group builds on this focus on consumer-facing businesses with potential to expand across markets, while adding wellness, food and family experiences to its portfolio.

The current ₹10 crore investment marks the first phase of Arma Capital’s partnership with EBG Group. As part of its larger commitment, they will invest over ₹100 crore over the next five years across Carlton Wellness Center, Tarzan Nature Retreat, Adhira and Appa Coffee, Natuf Cafe, Chhota Bheem Café and all upcoming brands under EBG Group. The investment will support the expansion of the mentioned brands across major cities including Chandigarh, Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad and Delhi NCR.

Arun Jain, Founder and Managing Director, Arma Capital

Arun Jain, Founder and Managing Director, Arma Capital, said: “We were looking for businesses that solve everyday consumer needs and have the potential to grow across cities. EBG Group brought together wellness, food and family experience brands under one ecosystem, and that made this partnership a natural fit. We believe these brands have the opportunity to reach many more people while creating long-term value.”

Commenting on the investment, Dr. Irfan Khan, Founder and Chairman, EBG Group, said: “Arma Capital’s decision to invest across multiple EBG brands is a testimony to the businesses we have built and the trust they have placed in our long-term vision. Their partnership across wellness, food and family experiences reinforces our belief that consumer-focused brands with strong fundamentals can grow across India. We are excited to build this journey together.”

Dr. Irfan Khan, Founder and Chairman, EBG Group

The partnership brings together Arma Capital’s investment and expansion plans with EBG Group’s portfolio of consumer brands. For Arma Capital, it opens opportunities to grow its presence across multiple businesses. For EBG Group, it adds a long-term investment and franchise partner that will support the expansion of its brands into new cities. Together, the partnership creates a platform for future investments, new franchise locations and the launch of additional consumer-focused brands across India.

About EBG Group:

EBG Group is a diversified Indian enterprise with interests across mobility, health & wellness, realty, technology, lifestyle, food & beverages and social impact. Across its portfolio, the Group focuses on building and scaling consumer and business platforms through partnerships, operating systems, brand development and expansion. Its broader philosophy is centred on People, Planet and Progress.

Mukesh Ambani’s ₹10 Ice Cream Brand Shakes Up Market

Mukesh Ambani’s Reliance Consumer Products has launched a new ice cream brand called Bombay Creamery, with products starting at just ₹10 (10.53 cents), making it one of the most affordable entries in India’s premium dairy ice cream market. The rollout begins in western India and will expand nationwide soon, directly challenging established players like Amul, Kwality Wall’s, and Baskin-Robbins.

The brand is launched under Reliance Consumer Products Limited (RCPL), the FMCG arm of Reliance Industries Limited (RIL), marking Reliance's dedicated foray into the country’s burgeoning ice cream market.

The Bombay Creamery ice cream range includes an array of real ice creams across popular formats such as cones, cups, tubs, bars and sticks, with prices starting at Rs 10. Starting with immediate availability in Western India, Bombay Creamery Ice Creams will soon be rolled out pan-India.

Bombay Creamery: Key Highlights

• Brand name: Bombay Creamery
• Launch date: September 1, 2026
• Starting price: ₹10 (lowest among major brands)
• Formats available: Cones, cups, tubs, bars, sticks
• Positioning: “Accessible premium dairy ice cream” made with real dairy cream
• Initial rollout: Western India, with pan-India expansion planned soon
• Parent company: Reliance Consumer Products Limited (RCPL)

Market Impact

• Competitive pricing: Amul’s cheapest stick is ₹20, Reliance undercuts rivals by 50%
• Retail reach: Reliance can leverage its nationwide distribution network and retail presence
• Consumer strategy: Low entry price could convert first-time buyers into repeat customers
• Freezer network: Reliance expected to supply branded freezers to retailers

Bombay Creamery Vs Competitors

Brand	Cheapest Product Price	Positioning	Distribution Strength
Bombay Creamery	₹10	Accessible premium, real dairy	Reliance’s retail + JioMart
Amul	₹20	Mass-market, trusted dairy	Strong nationwide
Kwality Wall’s	₹25+	Global Unilever brand	Urban + semi-urban
Baskin-Robbins	₹60+	Premium international	Limited urban outlets
Mother Dairy	₹20+	Dairy cooperative	Delhi-NCR stronghold

Strategic Context

• Campa Cola relaunch: Sparked a price war in soft drinks
• FMCG push: Adds to packaged foods, beverages, personal care portfolio
• Analyst view: Pricing + distribution + consumer data ecosystem gives Reliance an edge

Risks & Challenges

• Brand loyalty: Amul and Kwality Wall’s enjoy strong consumer trust
• Cold chain logistics: Scaling nationwide requires reliable freezer networks
• Premium perception: Must balance affordability with premium dairy positioning

Swiggy Launches EatRight Exclusives in Bengaluru: Partners with City’s Iconic Brands

• Swiggy launches EatRight Exclusives in Bengaluru: Partners with city’s iconic brands like Truffles, A2B - Adyar Ananda Bhavan, Lo! - Low Carb and Keto Foods, Truth Bowl, The Bowl Company, Biryani Blues, Potful - Claypot Biryanis, Millet Express, Caterspoint and Saladspoint
• The new range of specially curated healthier, better-for-you dishes spanning multiple cuisines, including starters, Burgers, Biryani, South Indian favorites, and North Indian delicacies, available only on Swiggy
• Exclusive range includes Andhra Gun Powder’s high protein Chicken and Egg Biryani with 70gm+ protein, Rebel Foods’ Chicken Keema Masala Bowl with 26gm protein, Potful- Claypot Biryani’s high protein Chicken Tandoori with 65gm protein, Homely’s Egg Curry and Rajma Meal with 17gm protein, Chicken and a Paneer Biryani with 50g of protein from Biryani Blues
• Also, customers can choose from Tandoori Paneer(22gm Protein), Tex Mex(24gm Protein), Chicken Steak Burgers (24gm Protein), Creole Prawn (23gm Protein), Slow-Pulled Chicken Salads (41gm Protein), and Voodoo Spiced Prawns (30gm Protein) from Truffles and Millet Dosas, Veg Paya Idli, and Double Paneer Uthappam from A2B

Swiggy (NSE: SWIGGY/BSE: 544285), India’s pioneering on-demand convenience platform, today announced the launch of EatRight Exclusives in Bengaluru, in partnership with the city's culinary heavyweights. This exclusive range of the city's favourite indulgent dishes and meals has been curated with focus on high protein content, low calories and delicious taste. Swiggy has partnered with iconic brands in the city like Truffles, A2B - Adyar Ananda Bhavan, Lo! - Low Carb and Keto Foods, Truth Bowl, The Bowl Company, Biryani Blues, Potful - Claypot Biryanis, Millet Express, Caterspoint and Saladspoint to curate a host of healthy and tasty options. The newly curated macro-friendly dishes, available only on the Swiggy app, include Bengaluru’s top-selling dishes across diverse cuisines, from Starters, Salads, Burgers, and South Indian specialties to North Indian dishes and Bowls. To explore, customers can open the Swiggy app, tap on EatRight Exclusives under EatRight, and discover their new favorite healthy meal today. 

Leading food brands have carefully engineered Bengaluru’s favourite dishes over 10–12 weeks to make them "better for you," while retaining the taste and indulgence customers love. The range includes an entirely new line of lettuce-wrapped burgers being launched by Truffles, including the Tandoori Paneer(22gm Protein), Tex Mex(24gm Protein), Chicken Steak Burgers (24gm Protein), Creole Prawn (23gm Protein), Slow-Pulled Chicken Salads (41gm Protein), and Voodoo Spiced Prawns (30gm Protein). Also, one of city’s favourites, A2B - Adyar Ananda Bhavan, is redefining breakfast with rehashed South Indian classics like Millet Dosas, Veg Paya Idli, and Double Paneer Uthappam. Also, Millet Express is offering Ragi Ghee Karam Idli and Ragi Idli with Egg or Paneer Bhurji, where protein is ranging from 12gm to 25gm per serving.

Additionally, health conscious customers can enjoy the royal feast with high protein Chicken and a Paneer Biryani, both packing a massive 50g of protein from Biryani Blues, while Potful leads from the front with its high protein Chicken Tandoori with 65gm Protein. In the comfort bowl category, The Bowl Company and Homely offer a wide range of wholesome and curated meal combinations, from Coastal Fish Curry and Matar Paneer to Caribbean Grilled Chicken with Herbed Rice, Punjabi Chole with Brown Jeera Rice, and Paneer Tikka, catering to diverse taste preferences while keeping nutrition in mind. Customers could also choose from Chicken Kheema Masala Bowl (13 gm protein), Chicken Tikka Masala Bowl (26 gm protein) and Paneer Tikka Masala Bowl (17 gm protein) from Truth Bowl. Another set of options include Creamy Chicken Steak (44 gm protein) and Peri Peri Grilled Chicken (45 gm protein) from Lo! - Low Carb and Keto Foods. Also, Caterspoint and Saladspoint have the busy workdays covered with their High Protein dishes - Grilled Chicken with Hummus (66gm Protein) and Power Salads - BBQ Grilled Chicken with Vegetables with 64gm Protein

Additionally, health conscious customers can enjoy the royal feast with high protein Chicken and a Paneer Biryani, both packing a massive 50g of protein from Biryani Blues, while Potful leads from the front with its high protein Chicken Tandoori with 65gm Protein. For those following a strict macro or keto lifestyle, Lo! - Low Carb and Keto Foods brings their Creamy Chicken Steak (44gm Protein) and Peri Peri Grilled Chicken (45gm Protein). In the comfort bowl category, The Bowl Company and Homely offer a wide range of wholesome and curated meal combinations, from Coastal Fish Curry and Matar Paneer to Caribbean Grilled Chicken with Herbed Rice, Punjabi Chole with Brown Jeera Rice, and Paneer Tikka, catering to diverse taste preferences while keeping nutrition in mind. Also, Caterspoint and Saladspoint have the busy workdays covered with their High Protein dishes - Grilled Chicken with Hummus (66gm Protein) and Power Salads - BBQ Grilled Chicken with Vegetables with 64gm Protein.

Speaking on the launch, Deepak Maloo, Vice President – Food Strategy, Customer Experience & New Initiatives, Swiggy, said,

“While we were building EatRight, we realized that there is a huge gap between what people want to eat and what they feel they should eat. Also, some widely loved food items are a strict no-no for the health conscious consumers. By partnering with iconic brands to create protein-packed and macro-friendly versions of historically indulgent foods across major cuisines, we aren't just giving our users better choices—we are expanding the very definition of healthy food on our platform. We want to prove that eating right doesn't mean eating boring. One can eat healthy and still enjoy his/her favourite dish. It is heartening to see that brands have enhanced nutritional quality of their dishes to appeal to the health conscious consumers- from increasing protein content, reducing refined ingredients, rebalancing meal composition, to introducing healthier ingredient alternatives. We are confident EatRight Exclusives will become an integral part of the daily regime of the healthy and better-for-you food lovers in the city of Bengaluru.”

Swiggy EatRight, launched in January 2026, is dedicated to making healthy eating accessible, delicious, and completely stress-free. From calorie-counted meals to high-protein innovations, EatRight connects health-conscious foodies with the best nutritious options their city has to offer. EatRight is currently live in 50+ cities across India, offering 3 million items across cuisines. Today, EatRight has about 5 million monthly transacting users and 1 in every 6 orders in Bengaluru is an EatRight order.

About Swiggy

Swiggy is India’s pioneering on-demand convenience platform, catering to millions of consumers each month. Founded in 2014, its mission is to elevate the quality of life for the urban consumer by offering unparalleled convenience, enabled by over 6.1 lakh delivery partners. With an extensive footprint in food delivery, Swiggy Food collaborates with over 2.7 lakh restaurants across 720+ cities. Instamart, its quick commerce platform operating in 129 cities, delivers groceries and other essentials across 20+ categories. Fueled by a commitment to innovation, Swiggy continually incubates and integrates new services like Swiggy Dineout and Swiggy Scenes into its multi-service app as well as creating standalone offerings like Toing and Crew for opening up new market segments. Leveraging cutting-edge technology and Swiggy One, the country’s only membership program offering benefits across food, quick commerce and dining out, Swiggy aims to provide a superior experience to its users. For more details, please visit our website: www.swiggy.com/corporate/

Compass Group India and Global Food Partners Drive Cage‑Free Egg Production and Farmer Training

Global Food Partners (GFP), a global consultancy helping food businesses achieve higher animal welfare standards in their supply chains, today announced it has supported Compass Group India, a leader in food services, to drive cage-free egg production and support local farmers in India.

According to the Release of Basic Animal Husbandry Statistics 2025 (2024–25) published by the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying, Government of India, the country is the world’s second-largest producer of eggs, with total production estimated at 149.11 billion eggs in 2024–25, reflecting steady year-on-year growth. However, an Ernst & Young report titled Transitioning to Cage-Free: A Roadmap for Corporates in the Egg Supply Chain highlights that a significant share of this production still relies on conventional battery cage systems, underscoring both the urgency and the opportunity to transition towards higher-welfare egg production practices.

Due to limited cage-free supplies and regional market gaps, Compass Group India is using cage-free credits to offset a portion of its caged egg purchases. GFP administers the Impact Incentives programme; cage-free credits enable food businesses to directly support egg farmers making a sustainable transition to cage-free production—while helping to build and secure future supply.

Compass Group has initially purchased around 4,000 cage-free credits in India, with each credit offsetting the purchase of 1,000 caged eggs—a total of four million eggs. The funds for this credit purchase go directly to three farms in India—U and V Agro, Hensway India, and Happy Hens Farm—to expand their cage-free capacities and invest in their logistics networks.

Via Compass Group Foundation, Compass Group India and other partners have also launched a new cage-free and free-range training centre with GFP as technical partner. The training centre, located outside of Bangalore, will support local farmers in their transitions to cage-free systems, teach best practices in egg production and management, and help farmers achieve long-term sustainability and profitability in their industry.

“Compass Group India has shown enormous leadership and innovation in not only their own cage-free commitments, but also in driving substantial, foundational change in how eggs are produced and supplied throughout India,” said GFP CEO Elissa Lane. “Their commitment to responsible sourcing extends to the new training centre that meaningfully supports farmers and strengthens the nation’s food system.”

Compass Group has published a complete Animal Welfare Progress Report for 2026 with more details.

Other industry giants that have adopted Impact Incentives as part of their cage-free strategy include Kellanova, Best Western Hotels, Lagardère Travel Retail, and PizzaExpress. By sourcing cage-free eggs whenever possible, and using cage-free credits to address any supply-chain shortfalls, companies can report 100 percent compliance with cage-free mandates. GFP currently focuses on egg production throughout Asia, and has capabilities in Europe, North America, the Middle East, and Latin America.

About Compass Group India

Compass Group India is a subsidiary of Compass Group PLC, the world’s leading provider of contract food and support services. Compass Group India has been serving the Indian Workplace, Education and Healthcare market needs since 2008 through corporate cafeterias, global capability centres (GCCs), manufacturing-led demand, and technology-led services. Its sector-focused businesses give its clients access to unrivalled experience, global best practices, and market-leading innovations.

About Global Food Partners

Global Food Partners (GFP) is a Singapore-based consulting company dedicated to helping food and hospitality businesses achieve cage-free sourcing, and egg producers to implement and optimise cage-free production practices. GFP operates across Asia, including in China, Vietnam, Indonesia, Japan, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, and India.

ENRISSION INDIA CAPITAL Backs Nova Nova to Redefine Gen Z Snacking in India

ENRISSION INDIA CAPITAL announces its investment in Nova Nova, a bold and fast-growing Gen Z–focused D2C chocolate brand in India. The investment, made as part of Nova Nova’s Pre-Series A round through our fund, marks a key step in supporting the next generation of consumer-first food brands.

India is home to over 377 million Gen Z consumers—nearly 40% of the population—who are reshaping the snacking landscape with their demand for lighter, on-the-go indulgences. Nova Nova is at the forefront of this shift, offering playful, bite-sized chocolate formats that are fun, shareable, and designed for everyday enjoyment.

Founded by Harsh Gadia and Nidhi Gadia, Nova Nova has quickly carved out a distinct space in India’s sweet-snacking market. The digital-first brand stands out for its focus on product innovation and format-driven storytelling, engaging modern consumers with indulgent, everyday snacking experiences that match their evolving tastes.

Harsh Deodhar, Principal at ENRISSION INDIA CAPITAL, said, 

Nova Nova captures the essence of what today’s young consumers seek authenticity, creativity, and an emotional connection with the brands they love. With this investment, we look forward to partnering with Harsh and Nidhi as they scale Nova Nova’s presence, expand product innovation, and strengthen its position as a new-age chocolate brand built for global appeal.

Harsh and Nidhi Gadia, Co-founders of Nova Nova, said,

At Nova Nova, we recognised a gap between traditional treats and modern snacking, and an opportunity to create an indulgent, engaging brand of chocolate that speaks to the aspirations and lifestyle of today's consumers. Partnering with ENRISSION INDIA CAPITAL helps us accelerate that vision—to reach more consumers, introduce new product formats, and bring sparks of joy and indulgence to their everyday life.

At ENRISSION INDIA CAPITAL, we are focused on backing visionary founders who are reimagining consumer behavior through innovation and design. Nova Nova exemplifies this ethos by redefining how India’s Gen Z experiences chocolate—making sweet moments more frequent, fun, and meaningful.

With this investment, ENRISSION INDIA CAPITAL and Nova Nova are partnering to bring a fresh take on indulgence to the Indian market, paving the way for a new era in everyday snacking.

Reliance to Build ₹1,500 Cr Food Factory in Nagpur, Create 500+ Jobs

Reliance Consumer Products Ltd (RCPL), the FMCG arm of Reliance Industries, is making a major move in Maharashtra’s industrial landscape with a ₹1,500 crore investment to establish an integrated food and beverage manufacturing facility in Katol, Nagpur.

Project Highlights

• Location: Katol, Nagpur district, Maharashtra
• Investment: ₹1,500 crore (₹1,513 crore as per some reports)
• Employment: Expected to generate over 500 direct jobs
• Timeline: Operations slated to begin in 2026
• Government Support: Maharashtra government signed an MoU to facilitate approvals, clearances, and financial incentives

Strategic Context

This facility is part of RCPL’s broader ambition to become India’s largest FMCG company with global reach.
At Reliance’s recent AGM, Isha Ambani revealed:

• RCPL aims to hit ₹1 lakh crore in revenue within five years
• Plans include ₹40,000 crore investment in AI-driven, sustainable food parks across India

Product Expansion

RCPL has been rapidly scaling with brands like:

• Independence (staples and packaged foods)
• Campa, Alan’s, Enzo, Ravalgaon, and Tagz Foods

This Nagpur facility will likely serve as a key node in their distribution and manufacturing network, enhancing both regional employment and national supply chain capabilities.

India’s First Prebiotic Soda Brand Misfits Attracts Strategic Investors in Seed Round

Misfits, India's pioneering prebiotic soda brand, today announced the successful completion of its seed funding round, raising an undisclosed amount from a consortium of prominent investors. The round was led by Nu Ventures, seasoned angel investor Subba Rao Telidevara, Turiya Advisory Services’ Managing Director Bijoy Daga; and renowned corporate finance and strategic investment consultant Robert Pancras.

Founded by brothers Aditya and Yash, Misfits has disrupted India's beverage industry by introducing the country's first prebiotic soda that combines bold taste with gut-friendly benefits. The brand's flagship product contains zero added sugar and are low in calories, positioning itself as a healthier alternative to traditional carbonated drinks.

The funding will be utilized to enhance production capabilities, expand distribution networks, and accelerate market penetration across India. Since its launch, Misfits has gained significant traction with consumers seeking functional beverages that deliver both taste and health benefits.

Left to right - Aditya Pai & Yash Pai(Co-founders of Misfits)

"We are thrilled to partner with investors who share our vision of revolutionizing India's beverage landscape," said Aditya Pai, Co-founder of Misfits. "This funding validates our mission to provide consumers with a guilt-free alternative to sugar-loaded sodas while supporting gut health through innovative prebiotic formulation."

Yash Pai, Co-founder of Misfits, added, "The investment will enable us to scale our operations and introduce new flavors while maintaining our commitment to clean-label ingredients and functional benefits. We're excited to build a brand that resonates with health-conscious consumers across India."

The funding round reflects growing investor confidence in India's functional beverage market, where consumers increasingly prioritize health benefits alongside taste preferences. Misfits' unique positioning as India's first prebiotic soda addresses this evolving consumer demand.

"Misfits represents exactly the kind of innovative brand that can transform traditional categories," said Venk Krishnan, Founder of Nu Ventures.

"The founders have identified a genuine market gap and developed a product that delivers authentic functional benefits while maintaining the taste profile consumers expect from carbonated beverages. Their approach to building a health-focused alternative in the soda category has tremendous potential for market disruption." said Subba Rao Telidevara, angel investor and former industry executive.

Misfits differentiates itself through plant-based ingredients, natural sweeteners, and zero preservatives, appealing to conscious consumers who value transparency and health benefits. The company's clean-label approach includes providing third-party lab reports, enabling informed consumer decision-making and building trust in the functional beverage space.

Founded by brothers Aditya and Yash, Misfits is India's first prebiotic soda brand committed to providing healthier alternatives to traditional carbonated beverages. The Mumbai-based startup combines functional ingredients with bold flavors to create products that support digestive health while delivering the taste experience consumers expect from premium sodas. With its clean-label approach and innovative formulation, Misfits is redefining what fizzy drinks can be in the Indian market.

Sweet Poison: Detergent-Laced Ice Cream & Bone-Weakening Drinks Exposed

An alarming discovery has raised serious concerns about food safety in Karnataka. Recent inspections by the Food Safety and Drug Administration Department flagged 97 out of 220 local ice cream and cool drink manufacturing units for selling substandard products under unhygienic conditions.

Some manufacturers were found using detergent powder in ice cream to create a creamier texture, while phosphoric acid—a chemical known to weaken bones—was detected in cool drinks to enhance fizz. Additionally, synthetic milk made from detergent, urea, and starch was being used as a cost-cutting measures.

Authorities have imposed fines and issued notices to violators, emphasizing the urgency of maintaining hygiene and quality standards in the food industry. This crackdown is part of a broader effort to ensure food safety, especially for children, who are the primary consumers of these products.

It’s unsettling to think about the extent of food adulteration.

The Food Safety and Drug Administration Department has issued notices and fines to these manufacturers for violating food safety standards.

Officials have assured more surprise inspections in the coming months to prevent food adulteration. They’ve also set up dedicated helplines — 1967 — for consumers to report suspicious products, ensuring swift action against violators.

With summer vacations in full swing, children are more likely to consume ice creams and cool drinks—making parental vigilance crucial. Experts recommend checking product labels, avoiding items with unusual taste or texture, and opting for trusted brands over unregulated local vendors.

Authorities are also enhancing laboratory testing capacities to speed up food sample analysis, aiming for stricter enforcement of safety regulations.

If You are in Karnataka, you can report food safety violations in Karnataka through the Public Grievance Redressal System [here]. The Department of Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs also provides contact details for consumer complaints [here].

Starbucks and Swiggy Celebrate the Launch of Starbucks 50th Store in Bengaluru

Starbucks and Swiggy Food Marketplace CEOs present at the launch of Starbucks first drive-thru outlet in South-India

Starbucks, a global coffeehouse, recently celebrated the launch of Starbucks 50th outlet in Bengaluru. The launch event of Starbucks first drive-thru store in the city was attended by the CEO of Starbucks, Sushant Dash and Rohit Kapoor, CEO of Swiggy Food Marketplace. The event celebrated the craftsmanship and commitment of the partnership to deliver top quality food and beverages to consumers across the country. Swiggy delivery partners were also present at the launch event.

Swiggy and Starbucks joined hands 8 years ago with only 6 outlets in Mumbai. The partnership has grown stronger over the years. The duo has collaborated and launched numerous customer-centric campaigns based on in-depth understanding of customer behavior, with the objective of enhancing consumer experience. Some of the marquee campaigns include 'Double the Love,' 'Friday Frappuccino,' and 'Items at 199.' Starbucks and Swiggy had also partnered to roll out the ‘Classics’ menu to roll out high-value meal items and combos tailored specifically for the Indian market.

Starbucks is proud to partner with Swiggy across 70 cities and 350+ outlets in India. To mark the milestone moment of the launch of the 50th Starbucks store in Bangalore Rohit Kapoor, CEO, Food Marketplace, Swiggy, joined 50 Swiggy delivery partners on a celebratory ride to the new store for a cup of Starbucks coffee. To make the occasion even more special, Sushant Dash, ceo, TATA Starbucks, personally brewed a signature Americano for Rohit, commemorating this remarkable journey and shared commitment to delivering great coffee experiences to customers across the country.

Commenting on the collaboration, Sushant Dash, CEO, Tata Starbucks, said, “Our 50th store in Bengaluru and first Drive-Thru in South India marks an exciting new chapter in our growth journey- one rooted in accessibility, innovation, and deep local relevance. At Starbucks, we use the specialty grade Arabica for every cup of coffee, serving the finest quality to every consumer. Swiggy has been a trusted partner in this journey, helping us deliver the Starbucks experience to customers wherever they are. As we expand across India, we remain committed to crafting new moments of connection, whether in-store or delivered to your doorstep.”

Speaking on the sidelines of the launch, Mr. Rohit Kapoor, CEO, Swiggy Food Marketplace, said, “Starbucks’ 50th store in Bengaluru is not just a milestone for their retail footprint, but also a marker of how far this partnership has come. From just a handful of stores in one city to now serving customers in 70 cities, Swiggy has been proud to partner with Starbucks every step of the way. Together, we’ve worked to make high-quality coffee and food experiences more accessible to millions of consumers across the country. As we scale further, we’re excited to keep pushing boundaries and delivering memorable experiences, one order at a time.”