Latest news with #MotherDairy
India Today
23-07-2025
- Lifestyle
- India Today
The cost of convenience: What we lost to 10-minute deliveries
The year is 2006. I'm a 10-year-old in class 6, living in the middle of one of Delhi's busiest markets, Sarojini Nagar. Back then, it was a full-blown family market, buzzing with everything from clothes and footwear to electronics, furniture and stationery. I would often descend three floors to buy milk, bread, eggs or guests turned up unannounced, Mum would quietly slip me a Rs 50 note to fetch essentials. Like an obedient kid who obviously enjoyed these mini escapes from the four walls of home since there were no phones to stay glued to, I would rush through the busy lanes – without noticing the cool 'Sarojini ke kapde' hanging around the shops and walls - to Santosh before I would say a word, the shop owner would guess if I was back again for a litre of Mother Dairy toned milk and 250 grams paneer. Other days, I would go first and say, 'Bhaiya, ek kilo toned,' only to be corrected that milk is measured in litres and not kilos. 'Oh haan, sorry bhaiya,' I'd mumble, grinning sheepishly. Other errands included fetching tomatoes. The joy of being recognised, of being known! Some evenings, I'd manage to fill the steel pan of the weighing scale with exactly 1 kilo of tomatoes. No adjustments needed - no adding or removing a tomato - once the vendor placed the 1 kg weight on the other side. Oh, what a win that felt like! These small market runs taught me more than I realised at the time: quick mental maths, conversations with strangers, backup plans when a shop was shut. So much unintentional learning!PS: Even the negotiation skills (though still questionable) came from that free dhaniya-mirchi!Even as we moved through several homes across Delhi-NCR, what made a new place feel like home was the act of discovering a local kiraana store-and slowly becoming a familiar face there. Especially for my mother, who had transitioned from a joint family setup to a nuclear one. Those small market interactions were more than errands for delivery services enter the sceneThen came Blinkit, Zepto, Swiggy Instamart - offering 10-minute deliveries and one-click convenience. Slowly and silently, they started replacing these tiny rituals. And while they've made things easier, they've also taken many 2025. There's no such thing as a 9 to 5 anymore. Work spills into all hours, and even after office, most of us are still answering messages and emails. Who wants to go downstairs just for a tray of eggs? Well, I still do.I enjoy picking up rice paper and fresh veggies after work to make dinner rolls. I'll grab milk, Holi colours, or even Shivratri samagri from the local shop when I can. But my mother? She's fully adapted. Even during Karwa Chauth, she ordered a pre-curated thali—sindoor, bangles, bindi and more—all delivered within minutes. It's efficient, no doubt. But sometimes I wonder: what happened to those small outings with Dad, where they handpicked everything with care? Her day now begins with comparing prices on Zepto, Blinkit or Instamart. Whichever offers the best deal gets the order. In the evening, if the house help mentions a missing item, she's already reaching for her phone to place an her grocery runs doubled up as mini walks. They boosted her mood, gave her steps (which the doctor says she needs many), and connected her to the neighbourhood. She'd stop to get a gas stove fixed, browse for a new suit, or snack on some fresh namkeen. Step count goals, anyone?The hidden costs of overdependency on instant deliveryThe sabziwaala would not only help her pick the freshest produce but also proudly inform her when he had brought kathal especially for her. In winter, she'd handpick bunches of sarson saag and get them chopped right there. While at it, she would also bump into an old aunty and talk about things ranging from increased prices of suit stitching, health concerns to any new colony scandal. These small exchanges filled in the quiet spaces of the day. They made sure loneliness didn't. advertisementBut it's not just her. Many of us are drifting in this direction - leaning more on apps, less on people. Our growing reliance on instant delivery is shrinking those everyday moments of interaction. The ones that quietly stitched our lives not the only cost. There's the financial one too. When you're too tired or too busy to plan your groceries, you end up ordering in pieces - adding things you didn't need just to hit the free-delivery minimum. Or paying more for one forgotten item. Whatever happened to monthly planning!Then there's the emotional trade-off - instant gratification. It's so easy to cave in to a late-night craving and order a bowl of ramen after watching a Reel. Before you've even thought about whether you really need it, it's already on its way. That quick dopamine hit doesn't last course, these apps are a blessing on tough days. When you're sick or short on time, they can be a lifeline. For people in under-served areas, they offer genuine access. This isn't about demonising maybe, next time you feel like swiping through a grocery app, head to a local shop instead. You might return with more than just groceries. A smile, a chat, a sense of connection and perhaps a small win with the weighing the cost of convenience isn't what you pay. It's what you miss.- EndsMust Watch
News18
22-07-2025
- Business
- News18
World Mango Day 2025: 7 Brands Making Mango Flavour Irresistible
Last Updated: This World Mango Day, India's biggest FMCG players are proving that mango isn't just a fruit, it's a flavour, a feeling, and for many brands, a billion-dollar opportunity What better occasion than World Mango Day to spotlight India's FMCG giants and how they're turning the king of fruits into blockbuster products? From iconic mango drinks to probiotic-infused innovations, brands are serving up mango in forms more exciting and refreshing—than ever. Here's a look at how leading FMCG players are bottling up nostalgia, health, and indulgence with this classic Indian flavour in 2025. 1. Frooti (Parle Agro) – The Timeless Mango Hit Why it matters: A mainstay since 1985, Frooti's no-fuss taste and fun packaging make it India's most-loved mango drink across age groups. It remains a massive category driver in the ₹10,000+ crore fruit beverage market, thanks to consistent market leadership and nostalgic value. 2. Yakult Light Mango Flavour – Gut Health Meets Great Taste Why it matters: Yakult Danone India's mango-flavoured probiotic drink is a strategic move to tailor global health trends to Indian palates. With 6.5 billion beneficial bacteria and an India-first flavour innovation, it's targeting health-conscious millennials and Gen Z consumers. Known for its thick, real mango pulp taste, Maaza is Coca-Cola's answer to India's mango obsession. With aggressive summer campaigns and a loyal consumer base, Maaza continues to challenge rivals and dominate menus nationwide. 4. Slice (PepsiCo India) – The Indulgent Choice Why it matters: Slice brings mango luxury to the mass market. Its smooth texture and campaigns like 'Aamsutra' have successfully positioned it as the sexiest mango drink on the shelf—with a loyal following to match. 5. Paper Boat – Nostalgia in a Sip Why it matters: Paper Boat continues to win hearts with variants like Aamras and Mango Panha, offering traditional recipes in contemporary packaging. Positioned as premium and honest, Paper Boat taps into regional tastes and modern lifestyles. 6. Amul – Dairy Meets Mango Delight Why it matters: Amul has given mango an all-season twist with lassi, milk drinks, ice creams, and yoghurts. Its vast dairy distribution network makes mango-based chilled products accessible even in Tier 2 and Tier 3 towns. 7. Mother Dairy – Mangoes Go Mainstream Why it matters: Whether it's mango milkshakes, seasonal ice creams and dahi treats, or fruit yoghurts, Mother Dairy's mango range delivers on both affordability and taste. Its strong presence in urban and semi-urban markets makes it a solid FMCG contender every mango season. This World Mango Day, India's biggest FMCG players are proving that mango isn't just a fruit, it's a flavour, a feeling, and for many brands, a billion-dollar opportunity. Whether it's nostalgia, nutrition, or indulgence you're after, there's a mango product waiting nearby. view comments First Published: July 22, 2025, 07:44 IST Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Time of India
13-07-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Cheese cubes vs cheese spread vs cheese slices: Which is healthier and what are the preservatives they contain
Cheese has quietly made its way into almost every Indian kitchen. It's tucked into sandwiches, melted on toast, folded into parathas, or eaten straight from the pack. But with so many forms now available, it can get a little confusing. Should you go for cheese cubes, slices, or that creamy spread? They all taste good, but what's actually healthier? And what keeps them fresh for months without spoiling? Let's slice through the layers and find out. Cheese cubes These are the small blocks you'll often see in tiffins or on snack platters. Most popular Indian brands like Amul and Mother Dairy make processed cheddar-style cubes. They are pasteurised, vacuum-packed, and often contain added salt, citric acid, and emulsifiers to keep the texture smooth and the shelf life long. To prevent spoilage, they usually contain sorbic acid (INS 200) and nisin (INS 234). These are food-grade preservatives that stop yeast and bacterial growth. Thanks to this combination, cheese cubes can stay fresh for several months without refrigeration until opened. What's good: rich in calcium and protein, travel-friendly, portion-controlled, and perfect for snacking. Cheese spread Creamy and spoonable, cheese spreads are made by blending cheese with milk solids, butter, and stabilisers. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Sunteck Presents 2/3BHK Sea View Homes at ₹98L+* in Mumbai Sunteck Realty Learn More Undo They are designed to be smooth, easy to apply, and stay soft even when chilled. The same preservatives appear here too. Sorbic acid and nisin are used, along with acidity regulators like citric acid to keep the pH balanced. Emulsifying salts such as sodium citrate help maintain texture and prevent separation. What's good: great for quick breakfasts, light snacks, and kid-friendly sandwiches. It is also easier to digest for some people due to its smooth, processed texture. Cheese slices Those individually wrapped slices you find in burger joints or school tiffins are all about convenience. They melt beautifully, peel easily, and never fall apart. To hold that perfect shape and meltability, manufacturers use emulsifiers like sodium citrate (INS 331) and polyphosphates (INS 452), along with the standard preservatives sorbic acid and nisin. Some slices also use food-safe colourants to achieve that glossy yellow-orange look. While the plastic wrapping helps keep them intact, it is the preservatives doing the real work behind the scenes. What's good: easy to use, mess-free, and ideal for quick sandwiches or burgers. How they stay fresh All three cheese types rely on a similar formula to last longer: Pasteurisation eliminates harmful microbes Preservatives like sorbic acid and nisin prevent spoilage Emulsifiers keep the texture smooth and prevent separation Low moisture content slows down bacterial growth Vacuum-sealed or individually wrapped packaging keeps air and contamination out This combination means your cheese can survive on a shelf or in the fridge for weeks or even months without going bad. Which is healthier? That depends on your needs. All three options provide calcium and protein but they are also processed and often high in sodium. Cheese cubes are closest in texture to natural cheese and may have fewer additives. Cheese spreads are the most processed but gentle on digestion. Cheese slices are the most convenient but usually contain the most emulsifiers and stabilisers. If you want a cleaner option, natural cheese blocks like cheddar, mozzarella, gouda, or homemade paneer are worth considering. They are fresher and typically free from added preservatives. But if you're using processed cheese occasionally and in moderation, they can still fit into a balanced diet. Want to skip preservatives? Make fresh cheese at home If you prefer your cheese clean and preservative-free, making it at home is simple and satisfying. Boil full-fat milk and turn off the heat once it begins to rise. Stir in lemon juice, vinegar, or curd to curdle the milk. As the whey separates, strain the curds through a muslin cloth. Rinse gently to remove the sourness, tie the cloth, and let it hang for about an hour to drain. What you get is fresh paneer that is soft, rich in protein, and completely free of additives. If you want to go one step further and make firmer cheese like mozzarella or rennet-set cheese, you can use rennet, an enzyme that helps milk coagulate. It is commonly used in traditional cheesemaking and gives you a more structured, sliceable cheese. Rennet is available in both animal and vegetarian forms, and a small amount goes a long way. Homemade cheese may not last for months, but it is free of preservatives, easy on the stomach, and a great way to enjoy real, fresh flavour straight from your kitchen.
India.com
30-06-2025
- Business
- India.com
Amul is now top Indian food brand, second place goes to...; check full list here
Amul is the food brand in India. (File) Amul has retained its top spot as the food brand in India, with a brand valuation of $4.1 billion, while another dairy-focused firm, Mother Dairy, stood second, with a brand value pegged at $1.15 billion, according to the latest report by UK-based consultancy Brand Finance. As per the report, FMCG giant Britannia ranks third on the list, followed by Karnataka's Nandini dairy cooperative at fourth, and Dabur at fifth. Where do Amul and Mother Diary rank on list of top 100 Indian brands? Notably, Amul, which is marketed by Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation (GCMMF), also features on the Brand Finance list of top 100 Indian brands across all sectors. The dairy cooperative is ranked 17th, while its main competitor, Delhi-based Mother Dairy, jumped six spots to rank 35th on the list. Commenting on the ranking, Jayen Mehta, Managing Director of GCMMF, said the achievement was a result of consumer trust and collective efforts by dairy farmers who are part of the cooperative. 'The achievement is a testament to the collective efforts of millions of dairy farmers and our unwavering commitment to providing high-quality, affordable food and dairy products to consumers,' Mehta was quoted as saying by the Business Standard. 'As Amul continues to grow and expand its footprint, both in India and internationally, this achievement reinforces our responsibility to uphold the trust placed in us by generations of Indian households,' he added. Mother Diary MD reveals expansion plans On a similar note, Manish Bandlish, Managing Director of Mother Dairy, termed his company's ranking as a 'a testament to our collective efforts', and dedicated the achievement to consumers, as well as farmers, employees and partners of the firm. 'Our rise among top five Indian food brands and also in India's top 100 brands across industries reflects more than numbers — it reflects the trust earned, relevance sustained, and the resilience of a brand that continues to evolve,' Bandlish said, according to the report. In an earlier report with the publication, the Mother Dairy MD had revealed the company's expansion plans, stating that the board had already approved around Rs 1,500 crore of investment combined in terms of Safal and dairy.
Time of India
30-06-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Amul remains India's top food brand: Report
HighlightsAmul has retained its position as India's top food brand with a brand value of USD 4.1 billion, according to the Brand Finance India 100 - 2025 report. Mother Dairy has improved its ranking to 2nd place among India's top food brands, with a brand value of USD 1.15 billion, and achieved a turnover of Rs 17,500 crores in 2024-25. Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation, which markets under the Amul brand, is the world's largest farmer-owned dairy cooperative with 3.6 million farmers contributing to the collection of 32 million litres of milk daily. Amul has retained its position as India's top food brand, with brand value of USD 4.1 billion followed by Delhi-NCR based Mother Dairy with USD 1.15 billion brand value, as per the latest Brand Finance report. Britannia was ranked third on India's top food brand list, while Karnataka-based dairy cooperative Nandini was at the fourth rank and Dabur was at the fifth place. Amul has retained its position as India's No. 1 food brand, according to the Brand Finance India 100 - 2025 report, a statement by Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation ( GCMMF ) that markets under the Amul brand. "Mother Dairy has been ranked 2 in India's Top 5 Food Brands for 2025, up from 3rd position last year," the NCR based company said in a separate statement. UK-based Brand Finance is an independent brand valuation and strategy consultancy. Mother Dairy now holds the 35th spot among India's top 100 brands across industries, as against 41st position in 2024. Amul bagged the 17th place in the top 100 Indian brands. GCMMF's MD Jayen Mehta and Mother Dairy MD Manish Bandlish noted that this recognition is the result of their strong commitment to provide quality products to consumers. Mehta said, "It reflects the collective efforts of millions of dairy farmers and our unwavering commitment to providing high-quality, affordable food and dairy products to consumers." "As Amul continues to grow and expand its footprint, both in India and internationally, this achievement reinforces our responsibility to uphold the trust placed in us by generations of Indian households," he added. Manish Bandlish of Mother Dairy said: "This recognition is both a reflection and a testament to our collective efforts -- a heartfelt thank you to our consumers, farmers, partners, and employees -- this recognition belongs to each one of you." "Our rise among Top 5 Indian Food Brands and also in India's Top 100 brands across industries reflects more than numbers 'it reflects the trust earned, relevance sustained, and the resilience of a brand that continues to evolve," Bandlish said. In 2024-25, Mother Dairy achieved a total turnover of around Rs 17,500 crores, clocking a robust growth of 16 per cent over the last fiscal. Mother Dairy, a wholly-owned subsidiary of National Dairy Development Board (NDDB), was established under the novel 'Operation Flood' program. It manufactures, markets and sells milk and milk products under the 'Mother Dairy' brand. The company has a diversified portfolio with products in edible oils under the 'Dhara' brand while under the Safal brand it sells fresh fruits & vegetables, frozen vegetables & snacks, unpolished pulses, and pulps & concentrates, under the 'Safal' brand. GCMMF is the world's largest farmer-owned dairy cooperative with 3.6 million farmers. It markets Amul milk and milk products across 50+ countries. The USD 11 billion dairy cooperative collects 32 million litres of milk every day and distributes annually over 24 billion packs of Amul products which include Milk, Butter, Cheese, Ghee, and Ice cream among many others.
