Author: Chokkapan

Chokkapan S (cbedit@imaws.org) In the culturally rich business hub of Kumbakonam — where culinary traditions are deeply rooted and customer loyalty is hard-earned — local brand Champion Ice Creams has carved out a distinctive niche over nearly two decades. It makes for an interesting study that what actually kickstarted as a two-member operation has steadily evolved into a multi-outlet brand, balancing local sensibilities with product innovation. Now, the brand is looking to expand its presence across the delta districts of Tamil Nadu. At the heart of this journey is N Raja, founder of Champion Ice Creams, whose entrepreneurial instincts and…

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Chokkapan S (cbedit@imaws.org) A deepening shortage of commercial Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) cylinders — as a fallout of the United States-Israel-Iran war in the Middle-East — is pushing the food industry across Karnataka and Tamil Nadu towards a critical tipping point. Over the past few days, hotels, restaurants and catering establishments in major cities such as Bangalore, Chennai, Coimbatore, Madurai and Puducherry have been grappling with severe disruptions in LPG supplies — the primary cooking fuel that powers their kitchens. What initially appeared to be a temporary supply hiccup has now snowballed into a widespread operational crisis. Hotel associations warn…

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Chokkapan S (cbedit@imaws.org) In an era where food systems are under mounting pressure from climate change, shifting consumer expectations and the rapid integration of technology, chefs are increasingly seen as changemakers. Kitchen Herald reached out to Andy Cuthbert, President of Worldchefs, the premier global network of culinary professionals, to discuss how chefs can balance sustainability with innovation, preserve culinary heritage, adapt to plant-based demands, and mentor the next generation. Kitchen Herald (KH): As the President of Worldchefs, how do you see the role of chefs evolving in today’s world where sustainability, technology and consumer expectations are reshaping the industry? Andy…

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U. Bharath (cbedit@imaws.org) The restaurant industry is one of India’s largest employment generators, but still struggles to access the full benefits of its classification under the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Development (MSMED) Act, 2006. Despite being formally recognised as part of the MSME sector, restaurateurs point out that a slew of restrictions and discriminatory practices have denied them critical advantages, such as power tariff parity, reduced bank loan interest rates and tax concessions. Industry associations argue that while the government has extended several support measures to manufacturing units, restaurants are excluded on the grounds that production and sales happen…

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U. Bharath (cbedit@imaws.org) The Thamirabarani river, which runs across Tirunelveli, is the lifeline of the entire region. Yet, for hundreds of business owners, especially restaurateurs, the same river has turned into a recurring nightmare during the monsoon months. In 2023 and again in 2024, heavy flooding during the North-East Monsoon inundated the city’s junction area — the busiest business district — leaving restaurants, bakeries and retail outlets underwater for days. The repeated flooding has caused losses worth crores of rupees, destroyed costly kitchen equipment and left businesses struggling to recover. Losses Running into Crores The scale of the damage…

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KH News Desk (cbedit@imaws.org) New Delhi: Renowned Delhi-based nutritionist and expert in functional medicine, Dr Shilpa Arora, has officially launched her new wellness hub — the Panchsheel Clinic. The inauguration event, held in collaboration with the World Macadamia Organization (WMO) and its ‘Love Macadamia’ campaign, spotlighted a central theme: the profound healing potential of food, with a special emphasis on the nutritional power of macadamia nuts. Known for her integrative approach to reversing chronic diseases through diet and lifestyle, Dr Arora’s philosophy aligns seamlessly with WMO’s global mission to champion clean, functional nutrition. The event was a testament to…

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