SHIREESH SINGH
Authentic Indian food is healthy. It is full of superfoods, something that has gained popularity in Western countries in recent times. Over the past 50 years, an average Indian has become well-travelled and is therefore more informed about global food choices. The eating habits of the average Indian have undergone changes owing to factors such as more disposable income, easy access to global cuisine, long working hours, and nuclear families. This has led to a new evolved market where people are ready to explore and experiment with available options.
The Indian culture has always been more bent towards a sit-down meal with family or friends at home, unlike the West where people are more likely to grab a meal on the go or eat out. Traditionally,
Indian diet uses fewer processed ingredients and more natural ingredients than that used by Western countries. These factors affect the eating out habit of Indian consumers, especially in the Tier-II and III markets. That said, this perception is gradually changing, as a number of multinational food brands are customising their offerings and providing healthy choices to suit the traditional values and food habits of Indians. As more and more global brands move to smaller towns, it is only a matter of time before this population catches up.