HOMEGROWN BRANDS GO HEALTHY

India's snacking industry is undergoing a healthy makeover with the emergence of a new wave of homegrown brands offering healthier alternatives without compromising on taste or innovation.

- BY RICHA FULARA

Once dominated by low-nutrition options, India’s snacking landscape is undergoing a healthy transformation.

As consumers increasingly prioritize mindful eating, homegrown brands are coming up with innovative, better-for-you alternatives. From nuts and trail mixes to clean-label desserts and makhana-based snacks, these brands are delivering flavour, convenience, and health in the same bite.

“I came up with Nutty Gritties to enhance the way that India consumes nuts as a healthier alternative to snacking. It stemmed out of solving for my own need and just got driven by innovation, by health consciousness, by the emergence of retail in the Indian market,” expressed Dinika Bhatia, Founder, Nutty Gritties.

“Earlier, ‘healthy’ snacks were seen as restrictive or medicinal, but today, consumers want snacks that are both functional and enjoyable. The pandemic accelerated awareness around ingredient transparency, gut health, and sugar reduction — and now, convenience and trust are leading the way,” shared Priyasha Saluja, Founder, The Cinnamon Kitchen.

“Healthy snacking is no longer an option, it’s becoming the norm,” added Abhishek Agarwal, Co-Founder, Farmley.

Omnichannel Retail Play

These homegrown brands follow an omnichannel retail strategy to reach customers where they are.