This Startup Makes Healthy Snacks That Wow Indian Taste Buds

Inspired by the adage ‘you are what you eat’, Khari Foods wants to change the habit of unhealthy snacking

Software engineer Yash Bansal was worried about his (and his family’s) love for sugary foods, given their age, lifestyle and the harmful impact of sugar and fats (not the good fat, of course) on general health. Unfortunately, it is difficult to kick one’s cravings for junk food, as the ‘healthy’ alternatives tend to be flat and flavourless most of the time. But not the one to be put off a ‘healthy’ step forward just because the markets do not offer a sound mix of taste and health, Yash roped in his father Sunil to be part of his health food venture. Khari Foods specialises in a versatile range of nutrient-rich snacks and other food items with unique desi flavours, be it the all-too-familiar turmeric or the exotic sandalwood. It only uses organic ingredients and serves healthy packaged snacks (seeds and nuts), peanut butter, A2 ghee (considered a healthier version of regular ghee) and more, all of which are sustainably made.

As the founders firmly believe ‘you are what you eat’, it is not surprising that they have moved away from the salt-sugar-fat regime of packaged foods to reshape traditional snacking. The brand has sold more than 5 Lakh products and served 4 Lakh customers. It clocked INR 4 Cr in revenue in FY22 and recently started to ship honey and dried berries to Singapore.

The startup uses an activation and processing technique (to be patented later), soaking nuts and seeds in a specially made water-based solution (chemical and preservative-free) for 24-48 hours. After sprouting, these are dehydrated at a low temperature for another 24-48 hours to increase their shelf life and add a crunch.

In 2023, Khari Foods plans to expand its reach through quick commerce platforms like Swiggy Instamart and Blinkit. The brand aims to enter Southeast Asia and other global markets as well as expand its physical footprint in India by 2026.