The India Gluten-Free Food and Beverage Market size is expected to grow from USD 17.14 million in 2023 to USD 32.90 million by 2028 according to reports. India is the second fastest-growing market for gluten-free foods & beverages in Asia-Pacific, following China. Gluten-free cookies, snacks, and Bakery products, such as bread, cakes, and more, hold the highest market share and are expected to project a healthy growth rate.
There are many factors which are driving the demand of millet based food products in India. After the COVID-19 pandemic, people are looking for healthier food options. They are also interested in eating traditional foods that their grandparents used to eat.
Additionally, there is a growing worry about health issues, and millets are seen as a nutritious choice to address these concerns. Government agencies are also promoting gluten-free products in the country by providing products at affordable prices. However, the challenge in India is no longer focused on food availability but on accessibility to safe and healthy foods and diets. Food should be made by experts who know the current lifestyle and nutritional requirements of the customer.
Nutrimillets provides guilt free consumption of favourite Indian snacks/food items which are made by Food and Nutrition Experts from Millets & have taste and health (nutrition) at an economical cost. The company is focusing on providing gluten-free products with a range of options along
with the higher quality, taste, and nutritional value to the consumers for maintaining the competitive position in the gluten-free products market.
Growth Story
Vidya Joshi, Founder, Nutrimillets comes from a humble background, with her roots in a modest family and in-laws belonging to the middle class. As the first-generation entrepreneur in both families, she has always harboured a dream of standing on her own feet and supporting my loved ones. She began working at the age of 17, fuelled by the desire to make a difference.
Journey so far wasn't a walk in the park. At the start, people thought millet products were just for folks with a lower income. Nutrimillets had to break that stereotype.
In 2020, the pandemic hit hard. Starting production during the lockdown wasn't easy. Retailers were unsure about new products, and the usual way of selling things had to change. The credit terms were extended, leading to difficulties in managing finances. The first year brought losses, and things got so tight that personal jewellery had to be used to keep the business afloat. Critics were loud, but Nutrimillets held its ground.
But she stayed patient and consistent. The next years turned things around. Sales soared and profits were close to 25 percent. In 2022, we took it to the next level, incorporating a Nutrimillets Foods company.
Nutrimillets built a network of home-based traders, connecting directly with customers. Now they have more than 2000 families on board from metros, urban, and rural areas.
So, yeah, it was tough, but they turned things around. The challenges just made them more determined, and now, they're ready for bigger things ahead!
Looking Ahead
The company’s roots lie in a deep commitment to society and the environment. It takes pride in Indian heritage and the richness of its traditional food and medicine, especially Ayurveda. The company’s passion extends to women empowerment and the reintroduction of millets into people's daily diets. “We're actively exploring ways to provide our products at subsidized costs to nutrition supplement programs run by NGOs or companies. We invite everyone to support these causes wherever possible. Through Nutrimillets, we aim to make a modest contribution to these noble causes. This business is not just a venture; it's something close to our hearts, reflecting our commitment to positive social and environmental impacts”, states the Founder.
Now, the company is eyeing the national market. Partnerships with government agencies, corporations, military canteens, and new distributors are on the horizon. It wants to grow even bigger and better in the coming year. “Our Nutrimillets Food Corner is coming to town in the next 6 months. Nutrimillets corner will be packed with all things millet, tasty, and good for you. We are not just about snacks; we are cooking up a storm of healthy, tasty options for you”, concludes the Founder.